Fundraising is the lifeblood of nonprofits, and with the ever-changing landscape, nonprofits in Australia need to adopt creative, digital, and cost-efficient strategies to thrive. This guide explores the top fundraising methods gaining traction in 2025, providing ways for organisations to connect with Australian donors and communities in impactful ways.
Virtual Fundraising Events
With the rise of digital platforms and streaming tools, virtual events have become a staple for nonprofits, offering an affordable way to reach large audiences across Australia. From online auctions to online raffles, virtual galas and live-streamed charity events, these events reduce costs while enhancing engagement. Platforms like Zoom, YouTube Live, and Eventbrite allow nonprofits to host events that are both interactive and wide-reaching.
Tip: Integrate engaging elements like live Q&A sessions, video storytelling, and social media shout-outs for donors who contribute in real time.
Success Story: The Virtual City2Surf saw participants across Australia running in their own communities while fundraising online, creating a nationwide community and maximising reach.
Peer-to-Peer Fundraising
Peer-to-peer fundraising lets supporters take the reins and fundraise within their own networks. This method is especially popular in Australia’s tight-knit communities, where supporters can leverage their personal connections to expand awareness and donations for your cause.
Tip: Create templates for social media posts and emails, encouraging fundraisers to share their personal reasons for supporting the cause.
Example: Encourage participants to set up their own fundraising pages on platforms like GoFundraise or Everyday Hero, with tools to make it easy to share across social media and reach family, friends, and colleagues.
Subscription-Based Giving
Recurring giving through subscription donations is an effective way for nonprofits to secure a steady income. Australians are familiar with the subscription model (think streaming services or meal delivery), making it easy for supporters to commit to regular giving. To make this even easier, you can use ClubDraws, an Australian online raffle that givers can enjoy being part of while supporting your cause. It requires no effort from you, except reconciling the donations you receive.
Tip: Offer donors perks for subscribing, such as exclusive updates, thank-you gifts, or virtual meet-and-greets with beneficiaries.
Platform: Consider using PayPal Giving Fund or Stripe for reliable subscription payments, which makes setup and management straightforward.
Text-to-Give Campaigns
Text-to-give is an effective tool for Australian nonprofits, allowing donors to give by sending a simple SMS. With the widespread use of smartphones, text-to-give campaigns reach donors quickly and meet them where they are.
Tip: Choose a memorable keyword and promote the text-to-give number across all channels, including social media, emails, and at events.
Tool: GiveEasy is an Australian platform that simplifies text-to-give campaigns and provides analytics to monitor donations in real time.
Leveraging Social Media Fundraising Tools
Social media platforms have integrated fundraising tools that make it easier than ever to collect donations directly through platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Australians are active on social media, and these platforms can expand your reach organically.
Tip: Use social media to tell powerful stories and showcase your impact. Encourage followers to use fundraising tools to celebrate their birthdays or other events as a way to fundraise.
Platform: Facebook Fundraisers allow supporters to set up their own donation drives for your nonprofit, making it easy for them to raise money through their networks.
Crowdfunding for Special Projects
Crowdfunding can be a powerful tool to rally support for a specific project or goal. By clearly defining a cause and setting a tangible target, nonprofits can harness the power of community support. This is particularly useful for time-bound projects like building renovations or community programs.
Tip: Use storytelling to make your crowdfunding campaign compelling. Incorporate videos, impact stories, and clear financial goals.
Platform: Pozible and GoFundMe are popular in Australia, providing easy-to-use tools to build, share, and manage crowdfunding campaigns.
Corporate Partnerships and Sponsorships
Corporate partnerships provide a win-win opportunity for businesses to support a worthy cause while enhancing their brand. In Australia, companies are increasingly looking for ways to engage in meaningful corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Tip: Approach businesses that align with your mission and offer them clear benefits, like brand exposure, tax incentives, or employee volunteer opportunities.
Example: Partner with local Australian businesses to run matching donation programs or sponsor your events in exchange for brand visibility.
NFT and Cryptocurrency Donations
NFTs and cryptocurrency are emerging as modern donation methods. Nonprofits worldwide, including some in Australia, are starting to accept cryptocurrency as a way to engage tech-savvy donors. Accepting crypto can open doors to a new segment of donors who value transparency and innovation.
Tip: Use a secure platform that specialises in cryptocurrency donations and ensure you’re compliant with Australian tax laws.
Platform: The Giving Block allows nonprofits to accept crypto and convert it into Australian dollars.
Volunteer-Driven Fundraising
Volunteers bring enthusiasm and fresh ideas, often engaging their own networks to help raise funds. From organising community events like car washes and sausage sizzles to conducting online challenges, volunteer-driven initiatives bring energy to your fundraising.
Tip: Support volunteer-led events by providing materials, online fundraising links, and promotional assistance. Recognise volunteers’ efforts publicly to encourage further participation.
Example: Encourage a “Challenge Month” where volunteers set personal challenges (like daily step goals or reading targets) to raise donations from friends and family.
Wrap Up
Fundraising in 2025 is all about blending innovation with accessibility. Nonprofits in Australia have numerous options to connect with their supporters, using both traditional and digital tools to create a meaningful impact. By adopting these modern fundraising strategies, your organisation can not only secure essential funding but also deepen connections with the Australian community.
Stay ahead of the curve by choosing the strategies that resonate most with your supporters, and don’t hesitate to experiment with new methods. In doing so, your nonprofit can continue to thrive and make a difference.
