Page 21 - ACF Young Australians Research Report

5.2 Engagement with WGPs
Interestingly, despite the higher proportion of the older survey recipients that were aware of their workplace’s WGP, the WGP participation of the younger group was substantially higher. 70% of the younger group participates in a WGP compared to 48% of the older group. Moreover, 39% of the older group stated that they had never participated in a WGP in the past.
On the other hand, the dollar amount donated by the older group to WGPs was higher. The average amount donated via their WGP by the older segment was $267 per year compared to $244 a year by the younger segment. This trend was also seen in one-off fundraising initiatives in the workplace. The average donation was $67 per year from the older age group compared with $44 per year by the younger group. This suggests that the amount donated is correlated to the level of income of the donor.
$ Donated per Year
$267
25-35 year olds
15-24 year olds
$244
Similarly, one of the most substantial barriers to giving was linked to income and affordability. This was echoed in the interview responses. As a result of relatively lower income, respondents from the 15-24 year old age group were more likely to donate on an ad-hoc basis. They typically donated low, one-off sums. For example, interviewees explained that the majority of their donations were made when they bought products, such
as a pastry from a cake sale at work where all proceeds go to charity. The amount donated would then correspond with the price of the product. Comparatively, the younger age group is more likely to contribute by volunteering rather than donating money.
A variety of causes were popular with Young Australians. In the past 12 months, the most popular causes were health and social services related as well as international causes. Not-for-profits related to mental health, children focused, or elderly focused were very popular. Of the international causes, the popular causes were related to natural disasters. The most popularly supported natural disaster response initiative in the past 12 months was to the earthquakes in Nepal.
Emotional connection is important because my charitable giving is tied to my sense of identity.
Emma, 22
YOUNG AUSTRALIANS; MOTIVATIONS FOR WORKPLACE GIVING | 2016 19