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©UNHCR/Eugene SIBOMANA

How Does Australia for UNHCR Work with Philanthropists?

Partnering for Global Impact

Philanthropy plays a critical role in the mission of UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency). These generous contributions fuel emergency responses, long-term development, and sustainable change.

We collaborate with philanthropists to amplify the reach and effectiveness of their giving — turning compassion into tangible, life-changing outcomes.

Our Approach to Philanthropy

Philanthropy at Australia for UNHCR is a true partnership. Our approach is values-led — rooted in trust, transparency and shared purpose. We work closely with donors to understand their motivations and align their giving with meaningful outcomes.

At Australia for UNHCR, our dedicated Philanthropy team provides strategic support to each donor, ensuring their generosity has the greatest possible impact. Whether it’s through tailored proposals or regular engagement, this collaborative approach ensures that every philanthropic journey is both purposeful and rewarding.

Giving Options and Flexibility

Philanthropic donors have the flexibility to choose how their gift is used. We offer a range of giving options to match personal interests and goals:

  • Unrestricted donations that allow us to respond flexibly where the need is greatest
  • Cause-specific support for areas like education, emergency response, healthcare, or women and girls
  • Region-specific support
  • Multi-year pledges that ensure sustainable impact over time
  • Legacy giving and bequests for donors wanting to make a lasting contribution
  • Matched giving initiatives that double the impact of your gift through funding partnerships
  • Trusts and Foundations are a powerful way to provide structured, long-term support for causes close to your heart

No matter your preferred approach, we’ll work with you to shape a giving plan that aligns with your values and vision.

What Philanthropists Can Expect

When people are forced to flee war or persecution, they lose not only their homes but also their sense of safety and hope. With the support of compassionate philanthropists like you, refugees can rebuild their lives, access education and healthcare, and create brighter futures for their families. Your generosity today means you will be changing lives tomorrow.

Giving to Australia for UNHCR is the beginning of a relationship built on shared values, mutual trust, and a commitment to lasting change. As a philanthropic partner, you’ll be supported at every step of your giving journey, with opportunities to engage deeply and see the tangible results of your generosity.

Here's what you can expect:

  • Personalised support from a dedicated Philanthropy Manager

    Every philanthropic donor is paired with a specialist from our Philanthropy team — your direct point of contact to help guide your giving, answer questions and provide strategic advice. Whether you're new to philanthropic giving or expanding your impact, our team is here to support your goals.
  • Tailored giving opportunities that match your values and interests

    We work closely with you to identify the causes that matter to you most — whether it’s education for refugee children, emergency response for displaced families, or empowering women and girls. Your donations can be directed to specific countries, programs or time-sensitive appeals that align with your personal mission.
  • Regular updates and impact reports showing the difference your gift is making

    We provide transparent, timely reporting on how your contribution is used. From field reports to case studies and personal stories, you’ll receive clear insights into the lives you’re changing.
  • Invitations to exclusive events, briefings and field updates

    As a valued partner, you’ll gain access to special events, private donor briefings, and updates from UNHCR teams working on the ground. These experiences offer a deeper understanding of our shared impact and the broader humanitarian challenges we’re working to address.
  • Opportunities to connect with like-minded donors and humanitarian leaders

    Join a community of committed philanthropists who share your desire to create a better world. We facilitate thought leadership events so you can connect, collaborate and be inspired by others who are driving meaningful change.

Our goal is simple: to ensure your generosity not only feels purposeful, but delivers real, lasting outcomes for people forced to flee. Together, we can build a legacy of compassion and action.

Measuring and Reporting Impact

Accountability and transparency are at the heart of our philanthropic partnerships. At Australia for UNHCR, we understand that when you give generously, you want to see the real impact of your support. That’s why we place a strong emphasis on consistent, honest and meaningful reporting — so you can feel confident that your gift is making a measurable difference.

At Australia for UNHCR, maintaining your trust is a foundational part of our work and keeps us accountable for delivering impact. We’re committed to showing you where your money goes, who it helps, and how together we are shaping a better future for displaced people around the world.

Here’s how we keep you informed

More information

Comprehensive annual reporting

Each year, we provide detailed reports outlining the outcomes your contributions helped achieve. These reports include both quantitative data — such as the number of people reached or shelters built — and qualitative insights into how lives have changed.

Case studies and field updates

You’ll receive first-hand stories and updates from the frontlines of humanitarian responses. These updates offer a human perspective on your impact — bringing your contributions to life.

Honest insight into both challenges and achievements

We believe that transparency means sharing not only our successes but also the challenges faced in complex humanitarian environments. Our reporting includes context on barriers, shifts in need or changes in program delivery — so you receive a well-rounded picture of your impact.

Stories of Philanthropic Impact

From funding schools in Uganda to supporting emergency shelters in Syria, our philanthropists have made a real difference in the lives of refugees worldwide. These are stories of resilience, hope and transformation — made possible by your generosity.

A UNHCR staff member speaks with Larysa outside her home in central Ukraine, where UNHCR supported repairs to improve living conditions for displaced families.

Four years of full-scale war in Ukraine

How Australian support is helping Ukrainians stay safe and warm through another winter at war

Omwali* and her grandmother Nia* outside their home in Nakivale refugee settlement.

Reuniting refugee families in Uganda

With your support, UNHCR is helping unaccompanied children like Omwali* reunite with their loved ones and reclaim their childhoods.

Newborn baby with mother at Natukobenyo Hospital in Kenya, where refugee mothers receive maternity care

Five ways UNHCR supports refugee health and wellbeing

From clean water to mental health support, see how UNHCR is helping to save lives and keep refugees healthy.

Let's Work Together

Every donor’s journey is unique — shaped by personal values, experiences and aspirations. Whether you have a specific cause close to your heart, wish to respond to an urgent crisis, or want to explore where your support can drive the greatest long-term impact, our Philanthropy team is ready to partner with you.

Personalised guidance and trusted advice

grounded in deep experience and humanitarian insight to help clarify your giving goals

Strategic opportunities

that align with your values and ambitions

Flexible donation structures

from one-off gifts to multi-year partnerships

Your generosity has the power to transform lives and build lasting change. Let’s make that impact together.

Please get in touch for a confidential discussion today.