Make a lasting contribution to boost better health outcomes for all Australians this World Health Day
Advances in medical science benefit everyone and this UNESCO World Health Day on 7 April, Equity Trustees is highlighting the important role structured giving plays in supporting Australia’s medical researchers and health care providers in delivering better health outcomes for all.
Charitable giving remains a vital source of funding in parts of the health sector – including medical research, disability services, healthcare access, mental health and wellbeing, and medical support services.
Equity Trustees facilitated $101.9 million in charitable grants and bequests directed to the for-purpose sector in 2025, with 39% of that funding going to support medical research and health initiatives.
“Philanthropic giving is a key element in the funding mix allowing medical researchers and health providers to continue their important work. We’re proud to support philanthropists who are making a meaningful difference to health outcomes in our community,” said Jodi Kennedy, General Manager of Philanthropy and Community Trustee Services at Equity Trustees.
One powerful example of this is the Equity Trustees Medical Research and Health Partnership Program, which combines the strength of 28 philanthropic trusts to help fuel breakthroughs in medical research. The Program has committed $7 million over five years to the Translational Research Institute Foundation, Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, and Sydney Health Partners, to support their groundbreaking medical research and advance the future of Australian healthcare. This adds to $10 million already committed to the Program since its establishment in 2017.
“As the trustee of more than 1200 philanthropic funds, Equity Trustees can align trusts with similar goals and help to coordinate their giving. This magnifies their impact, while continuing to honour the intent of every client who entrusts us with their legacy,” Ms Kennedy said.
“By facilitating funding through these partnerships with leading research organisations, we’re helping to accelerate medical discoveries and advancements in healthcare that can improve lives for generations to come.”
Ms Kennedy said ongoing philanthropic support through giving structures such as the philanthropic funds, trusts and foundations that contribute to the Equity Trustees Medical Research and Health Partnership Program delivers much greater impact than making one-off contributions.
“Establishing a private or public giving fund gives families the opportunity to dedicate charitable capital, receive immediate tax benefits, and provide ongoing support to eligible charities. This approach to giving is sustainable and creates enduring value for initiatives – whether that’s backing breakthroughs in medical science, or fostering developments in areas such as education, the environment, or community development,” Ms Kennedy said.
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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 as well as Responsible Entity (RE) and Custodian services for external Fund Managers.