In Australia, charitable bequests now account for approximately 20% of all charitable giving—a clear sign that more Australians are considering how to donate assets through a will as part of their legacy planning. Whether driven by a desire to support meaningful causes or to align their estate with personal values, many are asking the important question: how to donate assets through a will Australia?
This guide will take you through everything you need to know—from understanding different types of charitable bequests, to legal tips and benefits—ensuring your legacy lives on through impactful giving.
When we talk about how to donate assets through a will in Australia, we are referring to the act of naming a charity or non-profit organisation as a beneficiary in your legally binding will. This method of planned giving is called a charitable bequest.
A charitable bequest can be structured in several ways, depending on your estate, your wishes, and the nature of the gift you want to leave. It’s an effective way to support a cause you believe in—even after your lifetime—ensuring that your values are passed on to future generations.
A charitable bequest is a clause in your will that allocates a portion of your estate—either a fixed sum, a percentage, or specific assets—to a nonprofit organisation. For those looking into how to donate assets through a will in Australia, this is the most straightforward and legally recognised method.
You can choose to donate:
This form of giving offers both personal satisfaction and a lasting impact.
The growing interest in how to donate assets through a will in Australia is fuelled by several factors:
Your first step is to select the charity or nonprofit that aligns with your values. Use the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) register to ensure your chosen organisation is officially recognised.
Only registered charities can receive tax-effective bequests, so verifying their credentials is a key part of how to donate assets through a will in Australia.
There are several common types of bequests you can include in your will:
Each of these has legal implications, so it’s recommended to consult a solicitor when planning how to donate assets through a will in Australia.
It’s vital that the bequest is clearly worded. This includes:
This eliminates any doubt and ensures your gift reaches the intended recipient.
One of the most important aspects of how to donate assets through a will in Australia is working with an estate lawyer. They can:
Legal professionals can also help you update your will if your circumstances change.
Although not mandatory, it’s a good idea to notify the charity of your intended bequest. This helps:
Many nonprofits also offer donor recognition programs to honour your generosity.
Here are just a few inspiring examples of how Australians are leaving their legacy through charitable bequests:
These cases show that knowing how to donate assets through a will in Australia allows everyday individuals to become part of lasting change.
This is false. Even small bequests make a significant difference. You can leave as little as 1% of your estate and still create positive change.
While legal wording is important, the process is relatively simple with professional guidance. Legal Finda can connect you with experts who specialise in how to donate assets through a will in Australia.
While Australia does not have an inheritance or estate tax, donating through your will may still affect how your assets are distributed.
A solicitor can advise you on:
Estate planning is evolving. Here’s what to watch for:
These developments further encourage Australians to explore how to donate assets through a will in Australia as part of a modern, meaningful legacy.
Legal Finda connects you with trusted, experienced estate planning lawyers who can help:
Whether you’re just beginning or revising an existing will, we’re here to simplify the process and protect your wishes.
Understanding how to donate assets through a will in Australia is about more than legal planning—it’s about reflecting who you are and what you stand for.
Whether you want to support medical research, wildlife protection, education, or social justice, your will can be a powerful tool for good. With proper guidance, your estate can leave a lasting legacy of compassion, purpose, and community impact.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Legal Finda today to learn more about how to donate assets through a will in Australia—and ensure your legacy lives on in the most meaningful way possible.