Australia has a long history of giving. In 2021, Aussies donated $13 billion to charities and 6 million people volunteered in 2022 (Productivity Commission). These efforts have made a difference but as we head into 2025, new challenges require even more community support. The Frank Montagnese Foundation wants to make every dollar count, real and measurable.
Why Philanthropy Still Matters
Services like healthcare, aged care and social support need a balance of government and community funding. The government invested $212.4 billion in welfare services in 2021-22 (AIHW Welfare Expenditure Report) and $13.4 billion was raised through donations and bequests (AIHW Report). This gap shows how important philanthropy is in getting more people access to essential community services.
The Frank Montagnese Foundation has a different approach – we partner directly with high-impact not-for-profits (NFPs) that deliver results. By strategic giving, we ensure every dollar makes a difference for those who need it most.
The Frank Montagnese Foundation’s Approach to Effective Giving
We don’t seek public donations. We support NFPs that have a track record of success. This means we direct resources where they can make the most impact.
For example, a recent partnership with a grassroots homelessness initiative. We funded not only shelter but also job training for over 50 people so they could become self-sufficient and regain their dignity. This is what our values are all about – integrity, trust and transparency.
Trends in Philanthropy
Philanthropy is changing. Structured giving models like Private Ancillary Funds (PAFs) and Public Ancillary Funds (PuAFs) are growing (Philanthropy Australia). But fewer people are giving and the amounts being given are bigger than ever (ACRF Report).
While big gifts make an immediate impact they can also create over-reliance on fewer donors. Exploring new giving opportunities like legacy donations from superannuation funds could unlock billions more (Treasury.gov.au).
Philanthropy Drives Innovation
Philanthropy is often the driver of innovation where government funding falls short. Think Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) and Foodbank Australia (Foodbank). These organisations rely heavily on donations to fund research and deliver food relief.
The Frank Montagnese Foundation funds pilot programs and innovative projects so we can respond quickly to changing community needs.
Giving: It’s Not Just About Money
It’s not just about the money. Philanthropy is about connection and compassion. According to the Australia Giving Study, 54% of Aussies give because they care about the cause and 41% give to support those in hardship (Australia Giving Study).
The Frank Montagnese Foundation brings this to life through powerful storytelling – the voices of those whose lives have been changed by giving.
Get Involved: Create Real Change
The Australian Government has a target: double national giving by 2030 (Productivity Commission). The Frank Montagnese Foundation is on board with that – we connect philanthropists with high-impact projects and advocate for better giving models.
Let’s build a healthier, fairer Australia. Join us today – check out our partnerships and see how you can be part of it.
