Australian Cultural Fund Facilitates $15M in Tax-Deductible Donations for Arts

The Australian Cultural Fund (ACF), a free fundraising platform run through Creative Australia, has facilitated approximately $15 million in donations to artists and arts organisations in the past year. As the end of financial year (EOFY) approaches, the platform sees around 30% of its annual donations—roughly $4.5 million—during May and June. The ACF allows artists, collectives, and organisations without Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status to receive tax-deductible donations, levelling the fundraising playing field. Tracy Woolacott, ACF Manager, notes that the platform removes administrative barriers for independent artists and small groups. The Women’s Club, a Sydney-based organisation founded in 1901, uses the ACF to support initiatives like the Rose Scott Women Writers Festival, which has run since 2012. CEO Danielle Asciak highlights that the ACF enables tax-deductible giving, allowing existing donors to double or triple their contributions. Asciak, who previously used the ACF as an independent musician, emphasises relationship-building, direct asking, and strategic data use for successful fundraising. The ACF supports projects across theatre, music, literature, dance, and visual arts, with campaigns ranging from public crowdfunding to private donation portals.