Frequently Asked Questions
What does Make-A-Wish® Australia do?
The key mission of Make-A-Wish Australia is to grant the wishes of children and young people with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.
How did Make-A-Wish® begin?
Make-A-Wish originated in the United States in 1980. It grew from the dreams of a young boy Christopher Greicius, who had leukaemia and wanted to be a patrolman. His dream came true and after he passed away, his mother Linda Bergendahl-Pauling, helped form Make-A-Wish.
Does money donated only go to children in Australia?
Yes. Although, Make-A-Wish is a worldwide charity, the money raised in Australia goes towards granting wishes to children in Australia.
How large is Make-A-Wish in Australia?
Make-A-Wish Australia is a national charity with over 1,100 volunteers across 57 branches. The National Office is in Richmond, Victoria and there are also state corporate offices in QLD, NSW, WA and VIC. Make-A-Wish has over 36 affiliates worldwide.
How many wishes do you grant?
Since Make-A-Wish began in Australia, we have granted more than 7,000 wishes to children in Australia. Worldwide, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 270,000 wishes.
What types of illnesses do wish children suffer from?
All wish recipients have a life-threatening medical condition. Although this covers a range of illnesses approximately 60% of children who are granted wishes have some form of cancer.
What are the most common wishes?
Wishes fall into four categories:
I wish to be…
I wish to go…
I wish to meet…
I wish to have…
The most common wishes are computers, cubby houses and trips to the Gold Coast.
How does Make-A-Wish Australia raise money?
Make-A-Wish Australia raises money to grant wishes in a variety of ways including:
Cause-related marketing
Sponsorship
Annual appeals
Marketing campaigns
Direct Donations
A considerable amount of funds are also raised by volunteers who conduct everything from sausage sizzles and trivia nights to major gala balls.
Where does my donation go?
Make-A-Wish Australia operates under strict fundraising regulations set down by Government and our financial records, (which can be viewed at www.makeawish.org.au) all fall within the regulations guidelines.
When will I receive my tax receipt?
Make-A-Wish Australia produces annual tax receipts for individuals and organisations who have generously contributed gifts and regular donations during July.
All donations $2 and over are tax-deductable and receipts for these donations will be sent out during this time. If you made a one-off donation, you would have received your receipt in the post shortly after your donation was made, however if you would like a copy of this receipt, please call us on 1800 032 260.
If you have changed your address, please contact our Supporter Care and Engagement Team on 1800 032 260 to confirm your details so we can update our records and send your receipt to the correct address.
If you have not received your annual tax receipt by the end of July, please contact us on 1800 032 260 or email supporterfeedback@makeawish.org.au.