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Giving Circles in Australia: How They Work

Philanthropy is evolving in Australia, with more people looking for meaningful and collaborative ways to support the causes they care about. One model that has gained significant momentum in recent years is the giving circle. By bringing together a group of people with shared values and a common interest in creating positive change, giving circles offer an accessible and engaging approach to charitable giving.

Unlike traditional donations made by individual donors, collective giving allows participants to pool their resources, knowledge, and networks to achieve a greater impact. Whether formed among friends, families, work colleagues, women’s networks, or community groups, giving circles are helping to democratise giving and make philanthropy more accessible to more Australians.

So, how do giving circles work, and why are giving circles growing in Australia? Understanding the structure and benefits of this collaborative model can help donors determine whether it aligns with their philanthropic goals.

What Is a Giving Circle?

A giving circle is a form of collective giving where a group of people pool money and decide together how those funds will be distributed to charities, organisations, or community initiatives.

At its core, a giving circle is about combining resources to create greater impact. Individually, members may only be able to donate modest amounts. However, when people pool their contributions, they can raise funds that support larger projects, provide grant funds, or help organisations address important social issues.

Giving circle members typically share common interests, values, or charitable priorities. Some circles focus on education, environmental sustainability, health, or social change, while others support local community initiatives. Many giving circles in Australia are also established around workplace philanthropy, corporate social responsibility programs, or groups of like-minded people who want to become more involved in giving.

Beyond financial contributions, giving circles often provide valuable learning opportunities. Participants engage in research, due diligence, site visits, and discussions about potential grant recipients. This allows members to develop a deeper understanding of community needs and the outcomes their contributions can achieve.

For many participants, the experience extends beyond writing a cheque. It becomes an opportunity to engage with philanthropy, build awareness, and contribute knowledge and expertise alongside financial support.

How Giving Circles Are Structured

There is no single model for how giving circles are structured. The flexibility of the concept is one reason for its growing popularity across Australia, including regions such as New South Wales and Western Australia.

Some giving circles operate informally among friends, families, or work colleagues who meet regularly to discuss charitable causes and determine where funds should be directed. Others are administered through a community foundation, donor advised fund, or other philanthropic structure that provides governance and administrative support.

Typically, members contribute a predetermined amount each year or make ongoing donations into a shared fund. The pooled funds are then allocated through an agreed decision making process. This may involve reviewing grant applications, conducting research, meeting with charities, or undertaking site visits to better understand community needs.

Many circles establish a mission and focus area from the outset. This helps guide discussions and ensures members remain aligned around shared values and philanthropic objectives. Some groups concentrate on local initiatives, while others support national or international beneficiaries.

Workplace-based circles may also involve employees who wish to contribute alongside their employer’s corporate social responsibility initiatives. In some cases, participants may provide pro bono services, mentorship, or professional expertise in addition to financial support.

Regardless of their structure, successful giving circles encourage participation, collaboration, and thoughtful decision-making. By involving members throughout the process, they create a stronger connection between donors and the organisations they support.

How Contributions Work

One of the most appealing aspects of giving circles is their simplicity. Members contribute a financial gift to a shared pool, which is then collectively distributed to selected charities or grant recipients.

The amount contributed can vary significantly depending on the group. Some circles require modest annual donations, making participation accessible to a broad range of donors. Others involve larger contributions that allow the group to provide substantial grants and support game-changing initiatives.

Once funds have been collected, members typically review opportunities, discuss potential beneficiaries, and assess the likely impact of each proposal. Due diligence often forms an important part of the process, helping participants understand how organisations operate and how donated money will be used.

Many giving circles hold regular meetings, educational events, and presentations from charities seeking support. These interactions help members gain insight into pressing community issues and evaluate the effectiveness of various programs.

The collective nature of the model means every participant has a voice. Rather than a single donor making decisions, members work together to determine where funds will have the greatest impact. This collaborative approach often leads to stronger engagement and a deeper appreciation of philanthropy.

How The Giving Advisory Can Help

Giving circles are transforming the way Australians approach charitable giving. By enabling people to pool resources, share knowledge, and participate in collective decision-making, they provide a powerful and accessible pathway into philanthropy.

As more donors seek meaningful ways to support their communities, giving circles continue to grow across Australia. Their ability to combine financial contributions with education, engagement, and collaboration makes them an increasingly attractive option for individuals, families, employees, and community groups.

At The Giving Advisory, we understand that initiating and maintaining conversations about giving in the family can sometimes be challenging. Our services team is here to help guide your family through the process of family philanthropy, whether you’re starting a donor advised fund, planning your first charitable contribution, or seeking advice on how to align your giving with your family’s values.

If you want to learn more about how to engage your family in giving and create a lasting philanthropic legacy, contact us today. We’re here to help you reach your philanthropic goals and make a positive impact together.

Brad Seeto

What Services Are Typically Provided?

As philanthropy becomes increasingly sophisticated, many individuals, families, and businesses are seeking expert guidance to maximise the impact of their charitable giving. Whether establishing a private ancillary fund, creating a long-term giving strategy, or aligning philanthropy with family values, navigating the various options can be complex.

This is where philanthropic advisory services Australia can play an important role. A philanthropic advisory partner helps clients develop structured giving strategies, identify suitable charitable opportunities, and establish governance frameworks that support effective giving over the long term.

Many people ask, “Do I need a philanthropic adviser?” While not every donor requires professional support, those interested in creating sustainable impact, managing larger charitable funds, or involving multiple family members often benefit from expert guidance. Philanthropic advisors bring deep expertise across key areas of philanthropy, helping clients make thoughtful decisions that align with their philanthropic objectives, financial circumstances, and long-term legacy goals.

Strategic Giving Framework Development

One of the core philanthropic services provided by advisers is the development of a strategic giving framework. While many donors begin their philanthropic journey with direct donations, strategic philanthropy takes a more structured approach to achieving meaningful outcomes.

A philanthropic adviser works closely with individuals, families, and businesses to identify their philanthropic goals, values, and areas of focus. This process may involve exploring social issues, assessing community needs, and determining where resources can create the greatest positive impact.

Rather than making reactive donations throughout the year ahead, advisers help clients develop a comprehensive plan that guides future giving decisions. This strategic giving framework can establish priorities, define success measures, and create processes for evaluating grantmaking opportunities.

For families, the framework can also help engage the next generation in charitable decision-making. By involving younger family members in discussions about mission, values, and giving priorities, philanthropy becomes a shared family endeavour rather than an individual activity.

Ultimately, strategic philanthropy enables donors to leverage their financial resources, expertise, and networks to achieve more impact while ensuring their charitable giving remains aligned with their long-term vision.

Structuring and Establishing Giving Vehicles

Another key service provided through philanthropic advisory is helping clients select and establish appropriate giving structures.

There are numerous philanthropic structures available in Australia, each designed to support different philanthropic objectives. Depending on a client’s circumstances, advisers may recommend a private ancillary fund, donor advised fund, perpetual private charitable fund, or other charitable giving vehicle.

Choosing the right structure requires careful consideration of governance requirements, administration responsibilities, investment preferences, and long-term grantmaking intentions. Philanthropic advisors provide guidance on these key issues, helping clients understand the benefits and obligations associated with each option.

For example, a private ancillary fund may suit families seeking greater control over grant rounds and governance decisions. A donor advised fund may be appropriate for those who want a simpler solution while still maintaining involvement in charitable recommendations.

Advisers often coordinate with legal, accounting, and financial advisers to establish the chosen structure efficiently and compliantly. This includes developing governance policies, documenting philanthropic objectives, and creating frameworks for ongoing grantmaking activities.

By helping clients establish the right philanthropic structure from the outset, advisers ensure charitable funds are positioned to deliver sustainable impact for years to come.

Tax and Financial Planning Coordination

Philanthropy is often closely connected to broader wealth planning, estate planning, and financial management considerations. As a result, tax and financial planning coordination forms an essential component of many philanthropic advisory engagements.

Philanthropic advisers frequently work alongside financial advisers, accountants, lawyers, and other professional advisers to ensure charitable giving aligns with a client’s overall financial strategy. This collaborative approach helps identify opportunities to structure giving in a tax-effective manner while remaining focused on philanthropic outcomes.

For example, charitable contributions may form part of an estate plan, enabling families to create a lasting legacy while supporting causes they care about. Advisers can also assist in evaluating giving opportunities at the asset level, including donations involving shares, business interests, or other financial assets.

How The Giving Advisory Can Help

Philanthropic advisory services offer much more than administrative assistance. They provide strategic guidance that helps clients clarify their mission, establish suitable giving structures, and coordinate philanthropy with broader financial and legacy planning goals.

Whether developing a strategic giving framework, establishing a foundation or private ancillary fund, or coordinating charitable activities with wealth planning, philanthropic advisors help individuals and families create a greater and more sustainable impact.For those seeking to make philanthropy a meaningful part of their future, The Giving Advisory can provide the expertise, structure, and confidence needed to achieve long-term philanthropic goals while supporting the communities and causes that matter most.

Brad Seeto

Why High Net Worth Families Use Structured Giving

For many affluent families, philanthropy is about more than making one-off donations. It is an opportunity to create a lasting impact, strengthen family values, and support charitable causes in a meaningful and sustainable way. As wealth grows, so too does the desire to establish a thoughtful giving strategy that aligns with long-term goals and priorities.

This is why high net worth families increasingly turn to structured giving Australia solutions. Structured giving involves using dedicated vehicles and frameworks to manage charitable giving over time, rather than relying solely on direct donations. Whether through private ancillary funds (PAFs), public ancillary funds, giving circles, or a sub fund within a larger charitable structure, these structured giving vehicles provide a strategic approach to philanthropy that can benefit both families and the communities they support.

But what are the benefits of structured giving? Beyond supporting charitable organisations, structured giving enhances family engagement, enables effective intergenerational wealth planning, and can improve tax efficiency. These advantages make structured giving an important consideration for families seeking to create a meaningful philanthropic journey.

Preserving Family Values Across Generations

One of the most significant reasons why high net worth families use structured giving is to preserve family values across generations. Wealth can be transferred relatively easily, but passing on a sense of purpose, generosity, and social responsibility often requires greater intention.

Structured giving creates a dedicated vehicle through which families can engage in philanthropy together. Family members can participate in discussions about favourite causes, charitable organisations, and social issues they wish to address. This collaborative process encourages diverse voices and helps younger generations understand the importance of giving back.

Private ancillary funds PAFs and public ancillary funds are particularly effective in fostering family involvement. Through planned contributions and regular grant-making, families can establish a shared purpose that extends beyond financial assets. Rather than viewing wealth solely as a source of personal benefit, future generations learn how it can be used to make a lasting difference in the world.

Research shows that involving younger generations in charitable decision-making can strengthen family relationships and improve engagement with future giving initiatives. Structured giving provides a framework for these conversations, helping families create a long-term legacy of philanthropy that reflects their values and aspirations.

Supporting Intergenerational Wealth Planning

Structured giving also plays a valuable role in intergenerational wealth planning. Many families seek ways to transfer wealth while maintaining family unity and encouraging responsible stewardship of assets.

A well-designed giving strategy can become an important component of a broader financial plan. Rather than treating charitable giving as a separate activity, structured giving integrates philanthropy into long-term wealth management and intergenerational wealth transfer objectives.

For example, a family may establish a private ancillary fund with an initial donation and continue making planned contributions over time. The funds remain invested and can generate returns, allowing the family to provide ongoing support to charitable causes while maintaining a dedicated pool of capital for future distributions.

Alternatively, a public ancillary fund or sub fund can offer a more accessible option for families who prefer not to manage their own charitable structure. These structured giving vehicles allow many donors to contribute to charitable causes while benefiting from professional administration and governance.

Unlike crowd funding or corporate cash donations that may focus on immediate needs, structured giving supports larger scale and long term impact initiatives. It allows families to respond to changing community needs while maintaining a clear charitable vision. This flexibility can be particularly valuable as financial situations evolve and family priorities change over time.

By integrating philanthropy into intergenerational wealth planning, families can create enduring charitable legacies while reinforcing the principles that underpin their success.

Enhancing Tax Efficiency

Another key benefit of structured giving is enhancing tax efficiency. While philanthropy is often deeply personal, many families appreciate the opportunity to maximise the effectiveness of their charitable contributions.

When donations are made to organisations that hold deductible gift recipient status, donors may be eligible for a tax deduction. Structured giving vehicles such as private ancillary funds and public ancillary funds can provide a tax effective way to manage charitable giving while supporting eligible charities.

For example, a family may make a substantial contribution in a year when taxable income is particularly high, potentially generating a significant tax deduction. The funds can then be distributed to charitable organisations over time, allowing for a more strategic and considered approach to grant-making.

Structured giving enhances flexibility by separating the timing of the donation from the timing of charitable distributions. This enables families to align their philanthropy with their broader financial and business objectives while continuing to provide critical support to charities and communities.

It is important to note that every family’s circumstances are different. Decisions regarding structured giving, financial products, and ancillary funds should be considered in light of a family’s financial situation and objectives. Professional advice and a Financial Services Guide should always be reviewed where applicable. Any information provided should be considered general advice only and not a substitute for personalised guidance.

Structured giving offers far more than a mechanism for charitable donations. It provides families with a strategic approach to philanthropy that supports long term impact, strengthens family values, and contributes to effective intergenerational wealth planning.

How The Giving Advisory Can Help

Whether through private ancillary funds, public ancillary funds, or other forms of structured giving, these vehicles help donors create a meaningful and sustainable giving journey. By enabling planned contributions, supporting charitable organisations, and enhancing tax efficiency, structured giving allows families to transform generosity into lasting impact.

As more Australians seek purposeful ways to use their wealth, structured giving continues to play an important role in helping families support communities, address social issues, and create positive change for future generations.

Brad Seeto

Can You Set Up a Private Foundation Through Your Company?

For business owners who want to formalise their charitable giving, a common question is: can you set up a private foundation through your company in Australia? The short answer is yes.

In Australia, a company can establish a philanthropic structure such as a private ancillary fund (currently known as giving funds). This allows individuals, family members and businesses to make fully tax deductible donations and support charitable causes through a strategic approach to long-term giving.

A well-structured private foundation can offer tax benefits, tax free growth on investments, and a lasting impact for the charities and charitable organisations you care about.

What Is Meant by a Private Foundation in Australia?

The term “private foundation” is commonly used to describe a private ancillary fund (PAF). A PAF is a type of charitable trust designed for structured giving.

A PAF must be:

Established under a trust deed
Registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission
Endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office as a deductible gift recipient (DGR) and income tax exempt charity
Managed by a corporate trustee or trustee company
Operated in accordance with the private ancillary fund guidelines

Unlike a public ancillary fund (PuAF), a private ancillary fund cannot solicit funds from the public. Instead, it is generally funded by a founder, family group or private company.

Once established, the fund can receive tax deductible donations, invest those funds in line with an investment strategy, and distribute money each financial year to other charities that are endorsed as DGRs.

Can a Company Establish a Private Ancillary Fund?

Yes, a company can establish a private ancillary fund.

This is one of the most effective ways to set up a foundation through company Australia. The company may contribute money or other eligible assets to the fund and claim tax deductions, subject to Australian tax law and its particular circumstances.

The company itself does not own the charitable trust fund. Instead, the company may: act as the corporate trustee, make tax deductible donations to the fund, cover some ongoing management costs and involve directors and family members in governance.

Because the PAF is a registered charity and income tax exempt charity, investment earnings are generally exempt from income tax. This creates a tax efficient structure for charitable giving and can significantly enhance the value available for philanthropic purposes over time.

For businesses seeking a more flexible alternative, some community foundations and public ancillary funds offer sub fund arrangements for sub fund holders, allowing structured giving without establishing a standalone charitable trust.

How the Structure Typically Works

When a company establishes a private foundation, the legal structure typically involves the following steps:

Create the trust deed setting out the charitable purposes and operating rules.
Appoint a corporate trustee, often a company limited by shares or guarantee.
Register the fund as a charity with the ACNC.
Apply to the ATO for DGR endorsement, tax concession charity status and income tax exemption.
Donate capital to establish the opening value of the trust fund.
Develop an investment strategy consistent with the fund’s objectives.
Maintain financial records and financial statements.
Meet annual reporting obligations, minimum distribution requirements and annual audit requirements.

The fund must distribute a minimum percentage of its net assets each financial year to eligible charities.

Is This the Right Structure for Your Business?

A private ancillary fund is ideal for businesses and families seeking a sophisticated philanthropic structure for long-term giving. It provides control, flexibility and meaningful tax concessions.

However, there are establishment costs, ongoing costs and compliance requirements. Directors must ensure the fund meets all obligations under tax law, the private ancillary fund guidelines and ACNC governance standards.

For some, a testamentary charitable trust, public ancillary fund or sub fund may be more suitable.

Before proceeding, it is important to seek advice from legal, accounting and philanthropic specialists who can assess your tax status, business structure and giving goals.

With the right structure in place, your company can turn profit into purposeful giving and create a lasting legacy for Australian charities.

How The Giving Advisory Can Help

Brad Seeto