Bunnings will suspend their iconic sausage sizzles from Wednesday due to the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Managing director Mike Schneider said in a statement they understand there will be some disappointed customers, but they hope to bring the community program back as soon as they can.
"Having listened closely to community groups, we've learned of the challenges many groups are facing finding volunteers and even supplies to sell given some of the reported challenges being faced by other retailers," he said.
He also acknowledged that finding alternative fundraising opportunities at short notice isn't easy.
"To assist community groups who have sausage sizzles booked over the next month, our store teams will donate $500 gift cards to these local organisations to assist with their fundraising activities."
Across Australia and New Zealand, this will amount to over $1.2 million.
Schneider said Bunnings will continue to follow official health advice and will use a commonsense-based approach when it comes to making decisions.
Bunnings has also cancelled all other planned in-store activities until further notice, including its Easter and Mother's Day family nights, school holiday workshops and trade breakfasts.
