Fundraising Tips

Before you begin

Decide whether you want to go solo or with a team. 
Compassion is strongest when it’s shared. Invite friends, family, colleagues, your parish or school. Fundraising together builds momentum and joy. 

Choose something that feels true to you

Whether you decide to Get active for change, Host with heart, share a Gift of love, express Your passion tour way, pick a fundraiser that reflects your passions. Authenticity inspires generosity. 

Invite others into your “why” 

Many people choose to support Caritas Australia because of the values they care about and what they see happening in the world around them. 

Sharing why you’re fundraising helps supporters understand what motivated you — and invites them to be part of it too. 

Need help putting this into words? 

Your message can be simple and honest like:

When you explain your reason, you’re not asking for support — you’re inviting people into your why. 

Create (or update) your fundraising page

Add a photo, set a fundraising goal that challenges you, and write a short, hopeful message about the change you want to see. Sharing your message helps people understand why this matters to you — and the impact of your fundraiser can reach communities across the globe. 

You might be fundraising because:

You believe in human dignity

Everyone deserves safety, opportunity, and a chance to thrive. Fundraising is one way to support people whose lives are being shaped by poverty, conflict, or inequality. 

You care about fairness and justice

You want support to reach people who need it most. Caritas Australia focuses on working alongside communities facing the greatest challenges, creating long‑term change. 

You feel a sense of solidarity

Maybe you’ve seen the impact of war, climate disasters, or rising hardship in the news or on social media — and donating didn’t feel like enough. Fundraising is your way of standing alongside others and taking action.

You care about the common good

You believe we’re all connected, and that positive change happens when people support one another — across communities and across borders.

Once your fundraiser is live

Make the first gift

A small self‑donation shows you’re all‑in,  and often unlocks the next few gifts.

Share personally

Start with people who know you best. Send a short message, with your fundraising link and share why you’re fundraising.

Post gentle updates

Share milestones, event countdowns, behind‑the‑scenes photos, or a simple “why I care” note keep supporters engaged and invite new ones in.

Keep it accessible and welcoming

support to women around the world for education, women's rights, and counselling.

Log your progress

If you’re getting active for change you can track your progress and update your community with how your progressing towards your goal. This acts as a great way to keep you accountable.

Ask generously, thank quickly

A kind ask opens the door; a prompt thank‑you strengthens relationships. Your gratitude is part of the impact.

Event planning (if you’re hosting)

Think about accessibility, public transport/parking, shade/wet‑weather plans, and simple setup. A welcoming space helps compassion take root. 

Local businesses often love to help — ask for venue hire in‑kind, donated prizes, pro‑bono services, discounted catering or ask your guests to make a donation in lieu of a ticket! 

Give guests a role: bring a plate, share a song/prayer, donate an item for auction, or help with pack‑down. Shared ownership deepens connection. 

After your event or challenge

Say thank you, personally

A quick reflection and photos from the day often makes the experience one to remember. Your thanks reminds supporters that they’re part of something bigger. 

Bank your funds properly

Online donations hit your page instantly. For offline gifts, follow the steps in your dashboard so we can put your kindness into action right away. You will have up to a month after your event to bank these donations. 

Share your story with us

We’d love to celebrate your compassion in action. Reply with a few photos and a short note about your fundraiser — it may inspire the next supporter to step forward.  Just email fundraising@caritas.org.au or give us a call on (02) 7254 5120. 

Consent to share

If you send us photos or stories, please be sure to complete our consent form so we can safely share and celebrate your fundraising. You can fill it out here. 

Inspiration for every pathway

Get active for change

Turn your activity into compassion in action. Share your training updates, set mini‑goals, celebrate small wins, and invite one new supporter each week.

Host with heart

Bring people together over food, faith, music or conversation. Host a trivia night, movie night, morning tea and create a simple ritual to ground your gathering in compassion. 

Gifts of love

Mark a birthday, wedding or milestone by inviting loved ones to give in your honour. Share a short line about what you’re grateful for and the hope you want to grow. 

Your Passion, Your Way

Sell, bake, busk, stream, craft, teach or perform — from a garage sale to a lemonade stand. However you choose to fundraise, your creativity makes a real difference. Keep your “why” at the centre and invite others to support it.