Giving in WA: New report reveals a strong and growing culture of generosity 

Philanthropy Australia and The University of Western Australia, this week released the Western Australia Snapshot of Giving Study, the first research of its kind to explore who gives in WA, how they give and the motivations shaping their generosity. 

As highlighted in a new opinion piece by Philanthropy Australia CEO Maree Sidey on the role philanthropy plays in WA’s economic resilience, the study provides the first comprehensive evidence base on who gives in WA, how they give and the motivations shaping their generosity.

Delivered in partnership with the Centre for Social Impact at UWA, and made possible by major supporter Lotterywest, the report provides a snapshot of WA’s unique culture of giving.  

The findings highlight a state rich in generosity of time, money and community spirit, while also identifying clear opportunities to strengthen awareness and the practice of structured giving. 

A strong foundation of generosity 

The study paints a compelling picture of Western Australians as highly engaged givers. Ninety-five per cent of individual respondents donated money in 2023-24, and more than 80 per cent volunteered their time. Foundations also reported diverse and flexible funding models, with many offering capacity-building support, unrestricted funding and technical assistance to strengthen not-for-profit partners. 

Centre for Social Impact UWA lead researcher Professor Leanne Lester said the study provides important insight into how giving happens across the state. 

“This snapshot showed the generosity of individuals and foundations, the challenges experienced by not-for-profit organisations and the strategic opportunities that exist to improve the way we support community outcomes.” 

Awareness gap

While generosity is high, the study revealed that many individual givers have limited knowledge of structured giving pathways, such as sub-funds, private ancillary funds, giving circles and community foundations, despite a strong interest in contributing to long-term change. 

Philanthropy Australia CEO Maree Sidey said the findings represent an opportunity to strengthen WA’s giving ecosystem. 

“Western Australians are clear about their desire to make a difference, and this study shows that they are already active and generous contributors in their communities. 

“There is a strong appetite for giving but at the same time, there is a gap in knowledge about structured giving options that can increase impact and create long-term benefits. As I explored in the op‑ed entitled “Why philanthropy matters to the Western Australian economy”, addressing this gap is central to ensuring philanthropy delivers long‑term social and economic value for WAThis research gives us an important foundation to build on and strengthen giving across the state.” 

Funding pressures

The study also captured perspectives from Western Australian not-for-profits, many of whom reported that philanthropic program funding does not cover the full cost of delivery. While nearly half of surveyed organisations receive a substantial share of unrestricted funding, others continue to experience low-flexibility or restricted funding arrangements. 

The findings reinforce the importance of ongoing sector conversations about paying what it takes and the role of philanthropy in enabling sustainable, long-term community impact. 

A shared opportunity 

Strategic opportunities to strengthen giving in WA include the following: 

• Increase awareness of structured giving vehicles 

• Share more resources to guide donors on how to give well 

• Elevate stories that highlight why people give and how giving drives community impact 

• Support collaboration between funders and not-for-profits 

• Build confidence and capability across donors at all stages of their giving journey 

These insights will help inform national work under Philanthropy Australia’s Strategy 2033 and support the growth of WA’s philanthropic sector. 

Read further insights into this research from Maree Sidey, Philanthropy Australia CEO.

Download the full report Western Australia Snapshot of Giving Study