This CEO letter accompanied the March 2026 edition of Quarterly Granting Advice.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve found myself reflecting on what makes giving truly effective – not only the structures we use, but the values, relationships, and shared intent that sit behind them. At Australian Communities Foundation, we continue to see this come to life in many ways across our community.
Collective giving is a simple but powerful way to place values and relationships at the forefront of philanthropy. It enables people to pool resources, learn together, and give collectively towards common goals. When people come together in this way, they can achieve outcomes far beyond what individual giving alone can deliver.
This May, ACF’s collective giving program, the Impact Fund, returns with a refreshed vision and opportunities for Fundholders to engage, connect, and learn. To mark the occasion, we’re hosting a series of events across the country and online – learn more and register via the links in our latest newsletter. If you’re interested in learning more about collective giving, this round-up of collectives that give together through ACF is a great place to start.
Recently, across the sector, there’s been considerable attention on the Government’s decision to increase the minimum annual distribution rate for public and private giving funds (formerly ancillary funds) to 6%. While this change won’t impact ACF Fundholders – with our community consistently granting well above this level – it will certainly shape conversations as people reflect on how and when they use different structures to support their giving goals.
Importantly, this change alone is unlikely to significantly increase support for charities, given more than half of giving funds already distribute above 6%. What could make a far greater difference is meaningful reform to Australia’s Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) system. As it stands, many organisations doing critical work remain ineligible for tax-deductible support due to outdated and complex criteria. We will continue to support Justice Connect’s Unlock DGR campaign, advocating for a more accessible and fit-for-purpose system.
At the same time, we’re encouraged by reforms that are already making a difference. The introduction of our Community Charity is enabling greater flexibility, responsiveness, and connection in how funds are established and deployed. A powerful example is the Strathbogie Disaster Relief Fund, which is supporting a rapid, community-led response to the January bushfires. Our recent conversation with local resident, Carolyn Munckton (FRRR Specialist and a driving force behind the Fund), offers a compelling insight into what this kind of locally driven model can achieve.
I was also pleased to recently attend the launch of the She Gives report, Growing women’s giving – an important recognition of the role women play in shaping Australia’s giving landscape. I particularly valued hearing from the Governor-General, Sam Mostyn AC, I was struck by her call to lead with kindness, care and respect – values that continue to guide how we work at ACF.
As Australia prepares to host Women Deliver 2026 – one of the world’s most significant gatherings advancing gender equality – this is a meaningful moment to reflect on how gender shows up in our giving. For our latest granting advice, our team has highlighted some leading organisations advancing gender equity, alongside our regular quarterly granting inspiration.
Finally, I want to acknowledge a significant moment of transition within our team. After many years of dedicated service, Olivia Clark-Moffatt will conclude her role as Director of Engagement and Advisory in early April. Olivia has brought deep insight and integrity to ACF, and I’m grateful for the impact she’s had on our community. At the same time, we’re delighted to welcome Sally Hines to the role. Sally brings extensive leadership experience across the social enterprise, not-for-profit and social service sectors, and we’re thrilled to have her join us.
Thank you, as always, for the thoughtfulness and generosity you bring to your giving. It’s a privilege to work alongside a community that continues to engage deeply with not just how much we give, but how we give – and how our collective choices can create lasting impact.
Cheers,
Andrew Binns
CEO, Australian Communities Foundation