One day, double the impact – Australian Red Cross launches its first Giving Day
13 March 2026
Australian Red Cross will make history on 19 March 2026 with its first-ever Giving Day, a 12‑hour fundraising event where every* donation made is doubled to support people and communities facing crisis.
For one day only from 8am to 8pm AEDT, small acts of kindness can create twice the change, with every dollar donated providing double the support, double the relief, and double the impact for those who need it most.
Australian Red Cross CEO Andrew Colvin said Giving Day is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when generosity is multiplied.
“Every donation, no matter the size, has double the impact, helping us reach more people, at moments when support can make all the difference,” said Mr Colvin.
Funds raised will directly support Australian Red Cross programs including emergency response and recovery, support for people seeking safety, local community resilience and wellbeing initiatives, lifesaving international humanitarian work, and more.
Joining Australian Red Cross in delivering its first Giving Day are generous supporters such as Coles, whose involvement will ensure every contribution delivers maximum impact.
Coles Acting Corporate Affairs Officer Jace Armstrong said Coles is committed to backing organisations that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
“Coles is proud to stand alongside Australian Red Cross in bringing its first-ever Giving Day to life. Our $100,000 donation helps fund the vital work they do in supporting communities in times of crisis and contributing to the broader effort in doubling donations. Every small act of generosity on Giving Day will go a long way in helping Australians when they need it most,” said Mr Armstrong.
Join Australian Red Cross in making history and help double kindness across Australia. To donate, visit redcrossmatchedgivingday.com.au from 8am-8pm AEDT 19 March 2026.
*There is a fixed amount of matched funds from our match partners. Once this amount is fully allocated, your donations continue to support Australian Red Cross but they are not doubled.
For media enquiries please contact: media@redcross.org.au or 1800 733 443
About Australian Red Cross
Australian Red Cross is a volunteer-based organisation that exists to reduce human suffering. With 111 years’ experience and a community of 15,000+ members and volunteers, we act locally and connect globally to deliver what’s needed, when it’s needed most. We belong to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (the Movement) and, together with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and 190 other National Societies in countries around the world, we are part of the world’s largest humanitarian network; 16 million volunteers that help those impacted by disaster, conflict, health and other social issues.
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