Benjamin Teo
Giving Christmas gifts is all about generosity; many Australians use this time to help those in need. Whether giving a gift card to a child in need or purchasing an inspired gift like clean water access, donating during the festive season brings joy to children around the world.
Charitable gifts aren’t just a kind gesture—they support vulnerable children and families experiencing hardship, from homelessness to malnutrition. By giving a charity gift, you can make a real difference in children’s lives around the world, helping ensure they have a safe and happy Christmas.
The Need for Christmas Donations in Australia
Over 1 in 6 Australian children are living in poverty, making Christmas an especially tough time for many families. A staggering 83% of households with children accessing emergency relief worry they can’t afford presents, and 61% struggle to afford even a special Christmas meal.
For these vulnerable families, Christmas can be more stressful than joyful. This is why donations are essential—they provide support to help disadvantaged children and families feel the magic of the season. We can help ensure a brighter, better future for children in urgent need across Australia through charity initiatives.
Major Christmas Charity Gift Donation Programs in Australia
Here is a list of major charities accepting Christmas gifts across Australia. Each program has its unique approach, supporting families in need through various donations, including toys, food hampers, and financial aid, ensuring child survival and development.
Barnardos Australia (NSW)
It supports over 15,000 children and families annually, focusing on vulnerable groups and child protection. You can donate to the Gifts for Kids program, which accepts presents, cash, or gift cards. More details are available on its website.
GIVIT (QLD)
Since 2009, GIVIT has delivered nearly 8 million donations, including 1.8 million items last year. Through GIVIT’s platform, you can donate essential items, services, or money for families in urgent need. Check their website for a list of needed items.
Operation Christmas Child (NSW)
Delivered over 220 million shoebox gifts to children in 170+ countries since 1993, reaching 10.6 million kids in 2023. Donate by packing a shoebox with toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. A $12.50 donation per box covers shipping. Visit their website for packing guides and drop-off locations.
St Vincent de Paul Society (Australia-Wide)
Helps over 1.3 million Australians annually through 200+ services and 45,000 volunteers. You can donate online or at local Vinnies shops, contributing clothing, household goods, or other items.
Doncare (VIC)
Provides food assistance to over 3,000 individuals annually, with a 200% increase in counselling services. You can donate online or by phone. They also accept new or gently used items for their op shops.
AnglicareSA (SA)
It supports approximately 58,000 people yearly, with $2.8 million in donations last year. You can donate food, blankets, pharmacy vouchers, or funds online to help provide essentials for vulnerable families.
Communicare (WA)
Supported 15,129 people in 2021-22, particularly helping families with school readiness programs. Donations help fund local family programs. Check their website for specific requests.
Toys ‘n’ Tucker (NSW)
In 2023, 5,600 food hampers and gifts were distributed to over 3,200 children. To help families during the holiday season, donate non-perishable food or Christmas gifts such as rice, canned goods, and Christmas cakes.
Uniting Vic.Tas (VIC)
Operates over 600 programs, supporting vulnerable communities. Donate to their Op Shops or contribute to their partnership with Good360, which helps distribute essential items.
Lighthouse Care (QLD)
Helped over 750,000 people last year and provided $497,400 worth of Christmas gifts through their Santa’s Little Helpers initiative. You can donate food or make online contributions via credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
UnitingSA (SA)
Supports over 12,000 people annually through housing, aged care, and community services. Donate new, unused gifts or make monetary contributions online. Regular monthly donations are encouraged.
ABC Giving Tree (TAS)
This program has raised funds for Tasmanian families in need for over 30 years. They accept online donations for gifts and financial aid to support those in need.
General Christmas Gift Donation Methods
Cash Donations
Cash donations offer flexibility and help charities address essential needs quickly. From May 2022 to December 2023, the average donation in Australia was $400, with Western Australia leading at $1,111.
Gift Cards
Christmas gift cards allow recipients to choose their gifts. They’re gaining popularity, with 18% of people opting for this flexible option.
Physical Gifts
Toys and games remain the top physical donations, with 20% of people listing them as desired gifts. Clothing, shoes, and sleepwear are closely followed and requested by 16% of families.
Online Donations
Many charities now offer online donation options, making buying an inspired gift or donating through their websites easy. With 36% of Christmas shopping happening online, this is a convenient way to help children and families in need around the world.
Corporate and Group Donations
Many charities have special programs tailored for corporate giving, making it easy for businesses to give support while engaging staff and customers in meaningful ways. These programs allow companies to impact children in need worldwide through cash donations, toy drives, or inspired gifts that provide vital supplies like clean water or Plumpy’nut® peanut paste for children suffering from severe malnutrition.
Schools, churches, and community groups can also get involved by organising toy drives or fundraising events. Whether raising money for UNICEF Australia or collecting essential supplies for needy children, these group efforts can help spread joy and hope to vulnerable communities during the holiday season. Every gift—big or small—helps fund life-changing programs and brings a brighter future to those who need it most.
Tax Deductibility of Donations
In Australia, cash donations made to registered charities are generally tax-deductible, which means your generosity can give back in more ways than one. Suppose you donate through Christmas charity programs, support children worldwide, or send gifts online. In that case, these donations may be eligible for a tax deduction—make sure the charity is an approved organisation.
Tax deductibility may apply for gift donations, such as toys or inspired gifts, that help the world’s most vulnerable children. Still, it’s best to consult with a tax professional to understand the specifics of your donation. Every gift, whether cash or goods, can significantly impact the lives of children in need while benefiting you during tax time!
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The original DadShop writer, owner, fun loving and tech guy. Great with computers, gadgets, quick on his feet and lover of novelty gifts. Ben writes for our wonderful blog occasionally just to pass time.
