Give up your gifts

Make your special moment more meaningful by asking for donations.

With almost 1 in 2 Australians affected by cancer in their lifetime, your efforts can help fund life-saving research and support.

See how others have asked for donations instead of gifts.

Ruaan's 8th Birthday

Our story

For his 8th birthday, Ruaan decided to celebrate in a different way. Inspired by his love for soccer, he hosted a party and asked his friends and family to donate instead of bringing presents.

“I want to use my goals for good,” Ruaan shared, turning his birthday into a chance to help others.

By giving up gifts, Ruaan raised funds to support Cancer Council and help people affected by cancer and their families.

Our top tips

Make it fun and personal. Tying your fundraiser to something you love, like a sport or theme, can make it more exciting for everyone involved.

We raised $655

David and Alicia's birthday bash

Our story

After David’s experience with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, he and his wife Alicia decided to celebrate their 30th birthdays a little differently. Instead of presents, they hosted an 80s-themed party and asked guests to donate.

“We thought it was a great opportunity to raise money for Cancer Council,” David said. “It’s something that means a lot to people, and they’re always willing to help.”

Alicia added, “We didn’t really need gifts. If people were going to spend money anyway, it felt more meaningful to put it towards a good cause.”

Our top tips

Make it easy for your guests to give by sharing your fundraising page ahead of time and reminding them on the day.

We raised $8,735

A family Christmas tradition

Our story

For more than 15 years, this family has celebrated Christmas a little differently. Instead of exchanging gifts, they each donate $50 to a charity, taking turns to choose where the money goes.

Only the younger children receive presents. Once they turn 16, they join in, donating their $50 and thoughtfully choosing a cause that matters to them.

This year, the choice felt especially personal. After her daughter Natalie was diagnosed with lung cancer, the family chose to support Cancer Council.

“It just felt like the right thing to do,” she shared. “We’ve always believed in giving, but this year it meant even more.”

Our top tips

Make it a shared tradition. Getting everyone involved can make giving feel more meaningful and something to look forward to each year.