Move beyond one off donations to support gender balance this International Women's Day
As the world marks UNESCO’s International Women’s Day on 8 March, Equity Trustees is supporting the work of Australian Investing in Women (AIIW) to promote gender-wise giving.
Research by AIIW demonstrates how gender equality leads to safer societies, more productive economies and a fairer world for all of us. When we invest in women, communities thrive, economies strengthen and progress accelerates for everyone
Australia ranked 24th in the world for gender equality but there are many critical areas in which charitable giving remains a vital source of funding to support women’s contributions, in areas such as scientific research, including medical fields in Australia where women comprise 52% of the research workforce .
“Philanthropic giving plays a key role in ensuring female scientists and researchers have the resources and opportunities they need to excel," said Jodi Kennedy, General Manager of Philanthropy and Community Trustee Services at Equity Trustees. “We’re proud to support philanthropists who are making a meaningful difference in the scientific community.”
One standout example is the Dyson Bequest, managed by Equity Trustees. The Dyson Bequest Fellowship at the Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research is a five-year commitment that invests directly in the development of women scientists and medical researchers.
This initiative not only supports individual career advancement but also contributes to improved health outcomes for communities everywhere.
The Dyson Bequest marked its 25th year in 2025, with two generations of the family carrying on the legacy. Rose Gilder, daughter of Janie Dyson who founded the Bequest with her husband Bruce Dyson, works closely with John Dyson, nephew of Bruce and Janie Dyson, to lead the granting.
“We’ve met some extraordinary women doing life-changing work. I’d like to think we’ve played a small part in helping them get there,” Rose Gilder said, reflecting on the impact the Bequest is having on creating pathways for women in science.
Ms Kennedy said structured giving, like the Dyson Bequest, which is stewarded through the Equity Trustees Charitable Foundation, extends well beyond one-off donations.
“Giving funds, whether private or public funds, allow families to set aside charitable capital, gain immediate tax deductions, actively grow their funds and financially support eligible charities over the long term,” she said.
“This sustainable approach to philanthropy ensures a lasting impact – whether that’s supporting initiatives that advance gender equity in science, or making a difference in areas including education, the environment, or community development.”
Equity Trustees is responsible for distributing more than $100 million of philanthropic money to our community annually. Stewarding more than $360 million, the Equity Trustees Charitable Foundation empowers individuals, families and organisations across Australia to practice structured giving during their lifetime.
This International Women’s Day, take the next step towards lasting change - discover how structured giving can support gender equity and the causes closest to your heart here.
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Equity Trustees is the brand name of EQT Holdings Limited (ABN 22 607 797 615) and its subsidiary companies, publicly listed company on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: EQT) with offices in Melbourne, Bendigo, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
Equity Trustees was established in 1888 for the purpose of providing independent and impartial Trustee and Executor services to help families throughout Australia protect their wealth. As Australia’s leading specialist trustee company, we offer a diverse range of services to individuals, families and corporate clients including asset management, estate planning, philanthropic services and Responsible Entity (RE) services for external Fund Managers.