Unlocking Generosity: Australia’s $12 Billion Opportunity
A new report from The Social Impact Hub, in collaboration with The Edward Alexander Foundation and co-commissioned by Minderoo Foundation, highlights a surprising truth about charitable giving in Australia: the problem isn’t a lack of willingness, it’s access.
The report highlights the significant untapped potential of professional conversations about giving in Australia and underscores how trusted advisers can play a powerful role in unlocking more and better giving, and why strong impact measurement is so important in directing capital toward meaningful outcomes.
Despite a strong intent to give, Australians donate less than their peers in comparable countries, with structural barriers limiting participation. Only a small proportion of taxpayers claim charitable donations, and many people simply don’t know how to give effectively or where to start.
The report’s central insight is clear: better advice could unlock significant impact. By equipping financial advisers, accountants, lawyers and fundraisers to have more meaningful conversations about giving, Australia could generate an additional $7–12 billion in donations by 2030.
At the same time, the country is entering a historic intergenerational wealth transfer worth trillions, creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape how generosity flows across society.
Ultimately, Unlocking Generosity argues that philanthropy isn’t just about encouraging people to give more, but about making giving easier, more accessible, and better supported. With the right systems, conversations and infrastructure in place, Australia has the potential to significantly grow its culture of giving and drive greater social impact.
