Women and Girls Lead Record Surge in Philanthropic Investment for Australian Sport

Philanthropic investment in Australian sport has reached new heights, with a record $118.8 million contributed to grassroots clubs, athletes, and community programs in FY25.

According to the Australian Sports Foundation’s (ASF) latest Giving for Sport Report, more than 84,600 donors supported the sector, highlighting a significant shift toward sport as a primary vehicle for social impact and community inclusion.

The most notable growth occurred in women and girls’ sport, which saw a staggering $11.3 million year-on-year increase, bringing total targeted donations to $22.8 million. This surge reflects a mechanical necessity for the sporting ecosystem as it seeks to capitalise on the momentum of professional women’s leagues and drive long-term participation outcomes.

Commenting on the figures, Australian Sports Foundation CEO, Jerril Rechter AM, said: “People are not just backing sport because they love a team or know a club.” 

“They are backing sport because they recognise the role it plays in supporting inclusion, empowering young people and strengthening local communities.

“The growth we’re seeing shows Australians understand that when you invest in sport, you’re investing in people,” Rechter said.

Adding that philanthropy now plays a critical role alongside government funding to expand participation and ensure all Australians can access the benefits of sport, Minister for Sport, Hon Anika Wells MP, added: “This report highlights the growing role philanthropy can play alongside government and the sector to expand participation and ensure more people can access the benefits of sport,” Minister Wells said.

Expressing her enthusiasm, Lauren Jackson AO OLY, noted: “She Hoops reached more than 220 Indigenous girls across the country through this program providing them with leadership tools, life skills and pathways to empower them in basketball and beyond.”

“If it wasn’t for the financial contributions from our partners Kulbardi, the Bibbulmun Fund, and the broader community, and Basketball Australia for providing the She Hoops platform, opportunities like this would not exist,” Jackson said.

Impact-Driven Giving and Community Outcomes

The report indicates that Australians are increasingly prioritising “impact-driven” causes. Donors are moving beyond team loyalty to fund programs that address mental health, youth development, and social disadvantage. Key growth areas in FY25 include:

• Youth Participation: Over $31 million was directed toward the 13–24 age bracket, an increase of $14.1 million from the previous year.
• Mental Health and Wellbeing: Donations surged to $17.5 million, up $11.4 million on FY24 across 242 dedicated campaigns.
• Disability Sport: Investment reached $13.9 million, providing critical funding for accessible equipment and inclusive programs.

While high-net-worth individuals contributed $72.2 million (roughly 60 per cent of all funds), the report also notes a 72 per cent rise in distributions from philanthropic trusts and ancillary funds, signaling a growing confidence in sport as a credible social investment.

Partnerships Driving Social Change

The Active Kids program, in collaboration with The Dickinson Foundation, delivered over $540,000 in equipment and uniforms to 179 volunteer-run clubs. Additionally, the Parkrun Defibrillator Appeal successfully equipped more than 520 events with life-saving medical devices.

A standout initiative, the She Hoops Indigenous Leadership Program, led by Lauren Jackson AO OLY and Olympian Ally Wilson, reached 220 Indigenous girls aged 12–17. The program provides leadership education and elite mentoring, reinforcing the role of sport in strengthening resilience and community connection.

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