A gift in your will can leave a lasting impact that supports and inspires
Creating a legacy that echoes your values and beliefs is one of the most powerful decisions you can make. For those passionate about creating a more accessible and inclusive society, supporting organisations that champion these values – such as Travellers Aid – can ensure meaningful change continues long after their lifetime.
Charitable bequests are not just for the wealthy. You can make a lasting difference with as little as 1% of your estate. It’s a gesture that ensures your values live on, supporting communities, research, or social change that matters to you.
The power of charitable bequests
As well as continued support for the causes that mattered to you in your life, charitable bequests can have a powerful flow-on effect. Beyond the immediate impact, charitable bequests often inspire others to consider giving, creating a ripple effect of generosity and compassion.
A bequest ensures your estate supports the people and causes you care about while potentially creating a family legacy of philanthropy for future generations.
Choosing the right charity for your bequest
Research charities that reflect your values, looking for financial transparency and strong governance. Ensure your chosen charity is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).
The gift of access and inclusion with a charitable bequest to Travellers Aid
For many supporters of Travellers Aid, bequests offer a meaningful way to ensure that compassion, inclusion and practical support continue to reach those who need it most.
So how exactly does bequest money make a difference?
According to Finance and Corporate Services Manager Darren O’Beirne, these generous gifts serve multiple purposes.
‘Bequest money plays a vital role in sustaining and expanding the work of Travellers Aid Australia,’ he says.
‘These generous gifts are used to enhance services that support people with disability, mobility impairments and those facing disadvantage, particularly at major public transport hubs and events like the Australian Open.’
Beyond day-to-day operations, bequests also provide long-term security. They enable Travellers Aid to plan with confidence, develop innovative new programs like disability awareness training for corporate enterprises and maintain essential infrastructure such as mobility equipment hire.
Darren says many people who leave a bequest to Travellers Aid in their will have personal experience with its services or have seen its impact on others.
Others are drawn to the financial flexibility, knowing they can give more through their will than they might be able to during their lifetime, without affecting their current situation.
Large or small, every bequest helps ensure that future generations of travellers participate in the community with dignity and confidence.
‘Bequests are deeply meaningful to Travellers Aid Australia. They are more than just financial contributions; they are enduring expressions of trust and shared values.’
From volunteer to legacy support
Margaret Carter became involved with Travellers Aid by chance but grew to be a lifelong supporter. After 23 years as a volunteer, she has chosen to keep giving to Travellers Aid with a bequest in her will.
As a group president with the Country Women’s Association, Margaret took on responsibility for 10 branches. Among the projects and initiatives she oversaw in that role was fundraising for Travellers Aid.
From 1993 until 2008 Margaret helped organise the sale of merchandise from Travellers Aid’s Swanston Street premises. After they moved to their City Village site on Bourke St, the merchandise sales shifted to Southern Cross Station where she continued to assist.
Margaret’s years of service were recognised with a Traveller’s Aid life membership as part of its 100th anniversary celebrations in 2016.
When a stroke made travelling into the CBD difficult, Margaret realised she could keep up her support in a different way. She chose to make Travellers Aid a permanent part of her legacy through a bequest.
‘I believe it is a worthy cause because they do so much good work in the community and are really spreading their wings to reach more people,’ Margaret says.
‘More people need to know about and support Travellers Aid because the work they do could even help your own family members. You never know what could happen next week or next year. But supporting Travellers Aid means they can keep helping more people.’
Getting started with charitable bequests
Types of bequests: what are the options?
You have several options when making a bequest, from leaving a specific dollar amount or percentage of your estate to donating particular items like property or shares. Even as little as 1% of your estate can make a meaningful difference.
Are bequests to Australian charities tax deductible?
While bequests aren’t tax deductible for you, charities don’t pay tax on bequest gifts, meaning more of your donation goes to the cause.
How to set up a charitable bequest
You’ll need a will or, if you already have one, a codicil (legal amendment). Seek legal advice to ensure your bequest is properly documented and legally binding.
To nominate Travellers Aid as your bequest recipient you can use our suggested charitable bequest wording for your codicil.
Communicate your bequest plans
Once you’ve included a charitable bequest in your will, it’s important to communicate openly with both your family and chosen charity.
Share your intentions with loved ones, explaining why certain causes matter to you and how your decision reflects your values. This helps ease confusion and may even inspire them to support the same charities.
Also engage with the organisation to understand how your contribution will be used and express any specific wishes about fund allocation.
Leave a gift that keeps giving
Creating a charitable bequest is a profound way to leave a lasting impact. By thoughtfully planning your estate, you can support your cherished causes long into the future. Your generosity not only benefits those in need but also inspires others to consider their own legacy of giving.
Find out more about how your bequest to Travellers Aid will improve access, inclusion and independence for thousands of people every year. Or contact our bequest team to discuss your wishes on info@travellersaid.org.au