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Explainer: The timing advantage of giving through a Named Fund 

Profile of Thomas Lopez
Written by Thomas LopezPosted on 20/6/2025
Explainer: The timing advantage of giving through a Named Fund 

As the end of financial year approaches, donors can often find themselves inundated with funding requests and appeals. 

While the deadline for grants to be processed this financial year has passed, it’s important to also consider granting in the quieter periods after EOFY. 

One of the great benefits of Named Funds is the flexibility they offer. By making a tax-deductible contribution before 30 June, you can secure the tax benefit this financial year – and then take your time to plan distributions for the quieter months that follow. 

While many charities receive a spike in donations at EOFY, they often face quieter periods in the second half of the year. That’s when many organisations review their finances, identify funding gaps, and plan for the months ahead – making it an ideal time to offer support. 

For example, you might check in with your grantees in July or August to understand their evolving priorities. Some Fundholders use this time to support capacity-building needs, while others focus on helping organisations bridge funding gaps until their next round of government or philanthropic support arrives. 

Using your Fund in this way allows you to respond more thoughtfully to community needs. Whether you’re planning to revisit your funding focus, involve your family in decision-making, or consult your advisor, you can grant at your own pace – while your balance remains invested in our responsibly managed portfolio

By aligning your granting with these quieter periods, you can often achieve deeper impact – your support may be more noticeable, more timely, and more valued by the organisations you care about. Plus, this approach helps build stronger relationships with grantees who see you as a thoughtful, engaged funder. 

Named Funds also have no annual distribution requirement at Australian Communities. Unlike private ancillary funds and other donor-advised fund providers, which require you to grant 4–5% each financial year, you have the flexibility to grant on your own timeline. ACF as a Foundation is required to distribute at least 4% of its corpus annually – and we always grant well above this.

If you’re considering a top-up, now’s the time – and if you’re not quite ready to grant, that’s okay too. With a Named Fund, your granting isn’t tied to the tax calendar. 

Have you made your EOFY contributions to your Fund? Search and donate here 

Need support with your EOFY giving or want to learn more about Named Funds? Contact us for a conversation 

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