Living and giving: older Australians and charitable donations

Objectives: With shifts in the age structure of the Australian population having profound effects on individuals, families and society, including giving, this study aims to better understand the role of older Australians in donations to charity. Method: The availability of unique, one-off, customised Australian Tax Office data for the year 1999–2000, provided to the Centre of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies at the Queensland University of Technology, has allowed an examination of the relationship between age and charitable giving. Results: The proportionate number of donors and the percent of money donated by Australians were higher amongst older Australians. Conclusion: Older Australians play a significant role in supporting charitable organisations.