Frequently asked questions

What is the University of Newcastle Foundation?

The University of Newcastle Foundation is a formal body established by the University to encourage financial and cultural support. This support can assist students through scholarships and learning, support research that is relevant to the needs of the community, and can establish academic positions while strengthening the profile of our University.

Why should I donate to the University?

People donate to the University for a variety of reasons. Some wish to say thank you for the education they received at Newcastle and to give future generations the chance to excel. Others wish to support causes such as research that could save a life, assist development of new technologies and skills, or to honour the life of a staff member or student.

We rely on donations to fund some of our important projects. To find out more about our projects and priority areas please visit Projects and Priorities. For more information on donations, please visit why support the University.

How do I make a donation to the University?

You should contact the University of Newcastle Foundation about your intentions. You can make a donation via a credit card payment, a cheque, or a gift in-kind (a non-monetary donation such as art, books, collections, equipment etc), pledge or bequest. For more information please see how to donate. If you are unsure about how you can support the University, please see our information on ways of supporting.

How can I be sure my donation will be used for the purpose I request?

The University of Newcastle Foundation has adopted a coded practice on Philanthropy which requires the University to ensure the donor's wishes will be met. For more information, please see our codes and ethics.

Do I have to specify how my donation should be spent?

While the majority of donors have specific causes they wish to support, some donors prefer to have their donation unspecified on the understanding it will go into an endowment fund. An endowment fund is an investment for the future. An endowment fund can also support disadvantaged students with scholarships. For more information, please see endowment fund.

Will I receive reports about the project(s) I support?

If you wish, you can receive reports on the projects or students you support. The reports can provide you with a financial summary as well as a progress report on students supported by scholarships or research undertaken by scholars. Please contact the University of Newcastle Foundation to discuss this option and your wishes.

Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes, providing that your donations bring no material or tangible benefits to you under the rules specified by the Australian Taxation Office, your donation may be tax deductible. (Source: www.ato.gov.au)

Donors can claim tax deductions for gifts made to eligible gift recipients.

Gifts have the following characteristics:

  • There is a transfer of money or property
  • They are made voluntarily
  • The transfer arises by way of benefaction
  • No material benefit or advantage is received by the donor

For more information, please refer to tax and privacy.

My donation is only modest, does that matter?

Every donation, no matter how small or large, makes a difference and is greatly appreciated.

Read about how our supporters have helped.