Best Times of Year for Fundraising in Australia: Your Guide to Success
Timing is everything when it comes to fundraising. By aligning your efforts with the most supportive times of the year, you can boost engagement and donations. Check out our season-by-season guide below to help you make the most of each fundraising opportunity.
Australian Fundraising Calendar
Summer (December - February)
- December: The holiday season often brings donor fatigue. People may be busy with family gatherings and holiday travel, making this a tough time for fundraising.
- January: Post-holiday spending often means donors are dealing with Christmas expenses, so it's best to wait until later in the year.
- February: Back-to-school season can create distractions, but small fundraisers can work for highly engaged audiences.
Recommendation: Consider alternative months, as the holiday season can be challenging.
Autumn (March - May)
- March: This month can work for charities, but schools may face disruptions from Easter holidays.
- April: Still a decent time for charity events, although school breaks might reduce engagement.
- May: Ideal for fundraising! People are back into routines, and with Mother’s Day, it’s a great time to encourage donations.
Recommendation: May is a prime time, especially for community events, as people are settled and willing to contribute.
Winter (June - August)
- June: EOFY (End of Financial Year) appeals are highly successful. Donors are looking for tax-deductible opportunities, making this the perfect time to encourage contributions.
- July & August: Excellent for digital fundraising. With cooler weather, people spend more time indoors, often on digital devices, making them more accessible for online campaigns.
Recommendation: June through August is a fantastic window for fundraising, particularly for EOFY campaigns and digital raffles.
Spring (September - November)
- September: The arrival of spring means people are more social and open to community events.
- October & November: These months see a rise in generosity as people get into the holiday spirit. However, there’s also increased competition as many organizations ramp up fundraising.
Recommendation: September through November is another excellent period, ideal for community-driven events with a festive atmosphere.
With this guide, you’re well on your way to planning a high-impact fundraiser. Whether it’s an online raffle, event, or charity drive, selecting the right season can make all the difference.
