The ‘state’ of giving: Which states are leading Australia’s generosity this EOFY?

With just weeks until the end of financial year, new Australian Red Cross research shows donations to the organisation are increasingly being driven by moments of need – with people choosing to give in response to disasters and real-life stories of impact.

State-based data tracking this year's end of financial year donations, highlight how generosity is spread across the country. As of this month, Victoria (35%) and New South Wales (28%) together accounted for almost two thirds (64%) of all donations. Meanwhile, a less populated region is leading in generosity per donation, with the Tasmania recording the highest average donation ($531), followed by Northern Territory ($488).

This support comes at a critical time. Disaster response efforts have intensified significantly, with Australian Red Cross spending five times more hours on the ground this summer compared to previous years, responding to 23 activations across separate communities and supporting 43,838 people before, during and after disasters.

At the same time, financial pressure is taking its toll, with the number of people unable to donate nearly doubling in the past six months. Yet disasters continue to impact communities across the country – and the need for support is only growing.

Australian Red Cross Acting CEO Penny Harrison says the findings highlight the strength of community spirit during challenging times – but a growing gap between rising need and people’s capacity to give.
“Across Australia, we’re seeing more disasters, more communities in recovery, and more pressure on households”, said Ms Harrison.

“Even as households feel the squeeze, in the lead-up to tax time we’re seeing Australians still choosing to donate because they want to do their part. They have a genuine desire to help others and give back to their community - and right now, every donation matters even more – whether that’s time or funds. It’s what enables us to support people before, during and long after disasters.”

The research also found that hearing the stories of people supported by donations encourages Australians to keep giving - stories like Linda’s where the impact is clear.

After losing everything in the 2022 Northern Rivers floods, Linda rebuilt her life with the support of Australian Red Cross. Today, she volunteers as a Community-led Resilience Team warden, helping her neighbours prepare for and respond to future disasters with calm and confidence.

“Before the flood, we had no plan...I lost every single thing that you could possibly need in a house," said Linda. She now has an emergency plan in place and feels confident helping others prepare.
Linda’s story reflects the impact of donations beyond the immediate crisis, supporting long-term recovery and helping communities build resilience for the future.

“What is really encouraging is that humanity is still at the heart of giving. The fact that people are moved to act and donate their money, time, and quality clothing, to help reduce the suffering of others shows us the spirt of generosity remains strong,” said Ms Harrison.

2026 giving trends

• Cost pressures rising: Financial constraints are the top barrier to giving, up from 15% (Aug 2025) to 29% (Feb 2026)
• Giving remains resilient: More Australians increased donations (24%) than decreased them (13%) in the past 12 months
• Crisis-driven giving: 18% of Australians donate in response to local or global disasters