More Australians aged 40 and up are choosing to leave a lasting legacy not just for their families, but for the planet. A growing number of people are including environmental causes in their wills—an inspiring shift in values, legacy planning, and what truly matters at the end of life. Why Australians donate to environmental causes in wills is a question tied deeply to personal values, climate awareness, and a desire to leave the world better than they found it.
If you’ve ever wondered how your estate can make an impact, this blog will guide you through the powerful trend of eco-conscious estate planning—and how Legal Finda can help you navigate it with clarity.
The Growing Trend of Green Giving in Australia
According to recent findings by Philanthropy Australia, there has been a 15% increase in charitable bequests directed towards environmental organisations over the last five years. Why Australians donate to environmental causes in wills is rooted in this growing awareness—more than just charity, it’s a form of legacy.
As climate concerns deepen, Australians are increasingly motivated to support nature through their wills. Whether it’s to protect wildlife, restore bushlands, or combat climate change, many feel that a gift in their will can keep their values alive well beyond their lifetime.
Why Australians Donate to Environmental Causes in Wills: The Key Motivations
So, why do Australians donate to environmental causes in wills? Let's explore the most compelling reasons behind this movement:
- Personal values and lifestyle alignment: Many Australians who have lived eco-conscious lives want their wills to reflect the same principles.
- Inspiration from others: High-profile cases of public figures supporting environmental causes through their wills have inspired similar actions among everyday Australians.
- Disillusionment with traditional estate planning: For those without close family ties, donating to a cause that mirrors their values often feels more meaningful.
The act of giving to the environment through a will is both practical and deeply personal—a way to align one’s legacy with long-held beliefs.
Environmental Legacy Planning in Australia: What You Need to Know
Why Australians donate to environmental causes in wills is also tied to the structure and clarity of legacy planning. As more people look to support nature posthumously, it’s important to understand the legal landscape.
1. Clarity in Your Will
Using clear legal language is essential. Include the full legal name and ABN of the charity to ensure your bequest is carried out as intended.
2. Check the Charity’s Legal Structure
Make sure your chosen environmental charity is properly registered with the ACNC and endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) by the ATO.
3. Consider Tax Implications
While no estate tax exists in Australia, donations can impact how your estate is structured. Consulting with a lawyer will help you minimise complications.
Real-Life Examples of Giving Back to Nature
Examples from across the country show why Australians donate to environmental causes in wills and how those donations create real-world impact:
- Peter and Margaret from Victoria left 20% of their estate to the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, which helped protect over 1 million hectares of native habitat.
- David from NSW donated his coastal property to a marine research institute, securing its preservation for future generations.
These acts are more than generosity—they're thoughtful, values-driven decisions to leave a greener future.
What to Ask Before You Donate?
If you’re asking yourself why Australians donate to environmental causes in wills, consider asking these questions as you plan your own legacy:
- What environmental cause is closest to my heart?
- Should I leave a fixed amount or a percentage of my estate?
- Is the charity legally eligible to receive bequests?
- Have I spoken with my family and legal advisor about this decision?
Each answer helps create a will that’s both enforceable and meaningful.
How to Support Nature Through Your Will in Australia?
Supporting nature through your will is a powerful way to contribute to the future. Here’s how Australians are doing it:
Step 1: Choose the Environmental Cause
Start with what matters most to you—climate action, wildlife, or sustainability.
Step 2: Work with a Lawyer
A legal professional can ensure your wishes are valid and protected under Australian law.
Step 3: Notify the Organisation
Telling the charity in advance ensures your intentions are understood and appreciated.
Eco-Conscious Estate Planning Trends in 2025
Why Australians donate to environmental causes in wills also ties into broader eco-friendly estate planning movements:
- Digital will tools that help users include eco-initiatives and charitable giving.
- Sustainable memorial options, such as biodegradable urns or memorial forests.
- “Living legacies”, which allow people to start giving during their lifetime through structured trusts.
These trends reflect how modern estate planning is evolving with environmental values.
How Legal Finda Can Help?
At Legal Finda, we know that estate planning isn’t just about distributing assets—it’s about preserving your beliefs. If you're exploring why Australians donate to environmental causes in wills, our network of estate lawyers can help you:
- Select reputable, DGR-endorsed environmental charities
- Draft a legally binding, clear will that avoids common pitfalls
- Navigate state succession laws and family dynamics
- Coordinate with charities to honour your wishes
Let us guide you through this thoughtful journey.
Conclusion
As climate change becomes a defining issue of our time, more Australians are choosing to use their estates to make a difference. Why Australians donate to environmental causes in wills comes down to love—for the land, for future generations, and for a better world.
Your legacy can reflect the values you lived by. With Legal Finda, you're not just writing a will—you’re writing your mark on the future. Talk to us today and take the first step toward an eco-conscious estate plan that truly makes a difference.
