Essential support costs
A small portion of funds raised through our appeals are used to cover the cost of essential support costs — that is, the infrastructure and activities that underpin our work. At Australian Red Cross, this includes the day-to-day running of things like IT systems, fraud prevention activities, fundraising, and bank and platform fees. These funds also support the operations of our field teams who spread the word about assistance programs in communities where people need help and our dedicated cash assistance team who process the grant applications.
We’re committed to keeping our support costs as low as possible to ensure that the bulk of our appeal funds go directly into the hands of people in need.
Maximising the impact of the flood appeal
With pro-bono support from our generous corporate partners, we were able to cover the administration costs of the Australian Unites Telethon appeal in their entirety. As a result, 100% of funds raised through the Telethon were transformed into our immediate relief cash grants program.
For the QLD and NSW Floods Appeal, 90% of the funds raised went towards cash grants, recovery and response activities, with 10 cents of every dollar retained to cover essential support costs. Any interest earned on donations was invested back into the appeal.
Stories from the floods
From loss and grief to recovery
The Lismore floods hit hard, and ongoing support will be needed.
The support of volunteers in recovery
In the middle of one of the worst floods in Australia’s recorded history, the power of community and the miracle of life.
A slice of paradise
With support, Rese and her family are putting their haven back together after the floods.
Red Cross pays our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander custodians of the country where we work, and to Elders, past, present and emerging.
Learn about our Reconciliation Action Plan and how we can all make reconciliation real.
This website may contain the images, voices or names of people who have passed away.
