We all know that philanthropy is a unique beast: it’s nimble, responsive and, as one of Australia’s leading evaluation experts, Dr Squirrel Main, told an APS audience earlier this year: ‘Philanthropy is totally cool.’

When Frank O’Halloran retired from corporate life in 2012, he knew exactly what he wanted to do next. He recognised that not everyone is fortunate enough to have the resources they need to deal with the challenges that life can present.

Kent and May Ann talked of one day establishing a family foundation, and were eager to move ahead with their plans, despite being younger than many philanthropists. When an opportunity arose a few years ago, they could see no reason to wait.

For Robin Murphy, the important thing is being a catalyst. Things can get a life of their own if you just give them a push.

Este and Jennifer Darin Cooper believe that grantmaking is not all about the amount. It’s about deciding that this is something that you’re going to do now and, in the future.

When Rod Unsworth speaks about his family’s private ancillary fund (PAF), there are two words you’ll hear repeated often: getting involved.

For Robin Craig and Mick Boyle, charity work is an integral part of their business, just as giving is also a core value of their family life.

Both Mike and Geraldine grew up on farms in Queensland, where they experienced first-hand the unpredictable nature of farm life. Sustainability is one of the key factors they look for when selecting causes and projects to support.

Telling the story of The Day Family Foundation is an important part of Geoff’s philosophy, but not something that he’s always comfortable with.

Belinda Hutchinson AC and her husband, Roger Massy-Greene, made a conscious decision from the beginning to engage their children in their PAF, and all four are very involved.

David Gonski AC has been a long time pioneer of philanthropy in Australia. As well as having his own family foundation, David championed the creation of private ancillary funds in Australia.

The Mostyn family believe philanthropy should be a family affair. “It makes so much sense, and you just get so much more out of it than you think you would.”