Philanthropy Research: Perpetual Report Reveals Trust & Collaboration Paramount

Perpetual’s 2023 Australian Philanthropy Insights Report

People giving holding a light bulb & coin

In the last financial year, Perpetual partnered with individuals, families and trusts to facilitate the distribution of $185 million into communities. The report looks at that funding, with a particular focus on the $38 million committed via their IMPACT Philanthropy Application Program (IPAP), which seeks applications from not-for-profit organisations for funding from the philanthropic trusts and foundations they manage.

Key Highlights

Connecting philanthropists: One of their most valued services is connecting philanthropists with effective organisations dedicated to positive social, cultural, and environmental change, with philanthropists committing $38 million to not-for-profit organisations via the program in 2023
Challenges faced: Including the impact of inflation on vulnerable communities, high staff turnover, and increasing cyber threats, especially for organisations collecting sensitive data
Funding by sector: Trends such as social and community wellbeing, medical research, education, animal welfare, arts and culture, health initiatives, and conservation and environment
Multi-year commitments: The increasing trend of multi-year commitments and the strategic allocation of funds for core operational support and capacity building
Funding focus areas: Supporting specific under-funded groups to facilitate more positive change

Looking Ahead

As the not-for-profit sector faces increasing demands and challenges, philanthropy remains critical in supporting communities. The report anticipates a continued hybrid funding approach, combining immediate community needs with long-term initiatives. Trust and collaboration will be paramount in addressing the evolving needs of communities and organisations.

Donna Riley O’Neill, Good2Give‘s Grants Lead, comments:

“Trusts, foundations, grants and corporate workplace giving play an enormous role in charities and not-for-profits capacity to deliver vital services to communities in need. Long-term commitments from philanthropists and corporations play a key role. This report highlights programs with hybrid solutions may be key to moving forward into more effective and impactful future giving.”