Planning a fundraiser: Your guide

10 Feb 2023

So, you want to host a fundraiser but don’t know how to get started? Here are a few simple tips to help you host a great event while keeping the FUN in fundraising.

1. Choose an idea:

The hardest part is getting started. Take some time to figure out what you want your fundraiser to be, how it will work and what will entice people to donate to it. Remember, it doesn’t need to be a grand shindig and you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Some of the best fundraisers are the simplest.

Why not host a BBQ at work or with friends and family? Another great option is to challenge yourself. Others will more than likely donate to see someone else complete something they themselves might not do such as a long distance run or attempt at a world record.

Get creative with a few ideas!

2. Register with the A-Team:


It’s important to register your fundraiser before you get started. Not only are you notifying us of your intention to fundraise but you’re also unlocking a number of fundraising assets. Once you’ve registered, you can set up a personal fundraising page and a team member will get in touch with you to chat to about your fundraising.  

3. Promote your fundraiser:

Remember the fundraising page I mentioned? This is where it comes in handy. You can share it on your social media or email it out as a link to friends, family and co-workers. You also won’t have to collect any cash. All donations are made directly to your page which then goes direct to our work in research and support services. These donations are also listed on the page for people to see along with your fundraising progress.

4. Gather/prepare everything for your event:

It’s time for you to reach out to those that can help to grow your fundraiser. Whether you’re hosting an auction at your event, raffles or you’re looking for donations of items to make it happen. The first thing to do is ask us for a Letter of Authority to Fundraise. This letter will show that you have registered to raise funds for PCFA, and will let businesses and donors know your fundraiser is legitimate. This one letter can really help you to secure those items you’re looking for to run your fundraiser or secure suppliers/venues at a discounted rate or even free of charge. Once you’ve registered, email us at fundraising@pcfa.org.au for your Letter of Authority.

5. On the day:

Your fundraiser is finally here! All of your planning and preparing have come to this. Make sure you have enough time to set everything up if you’re holding a physical event, collate any notes for speeches and check all your technology before starting. Be sure you talk to as many supporters as you can to thank them for supporting your cause and don’t forget to let everyone know how much they helped you raise.

6. After the fundraiser:

After you’ve held your fundraiser set aside some time to send an email or share a post on social media to your supporters, thanking them for their support and letting them know your total funds raised. It’s great to share lots of photos from your fundraiser too. This is a great way to encourage others to get involved in fundraising and increase interest if you plan on hosting again.

If you have any questions or would like to speak with a member of the PCFA Fundraising team, give us a call on 1800 22 00 99 or email fundraising@pcfa.org.au.

— Written by Seiko Humble