What is a Public Ancillary Fund or a Public Giving Fund?

Structured giving through a sub-fund within a Public Giving Fund or Public Ancillary Fund (PuAF) offers individuals, families and corporates a simple, flexible, and tax-effective way to amplify their charitable giving.

By contributing to a Public Giving Fund or PuAF, donors receive an immediate tax deduction while retaining the ability to distribute funds to their chosen charities over time. Importantly, assets held within a Public Giving Fund or PuAF can continue to grow through tax-free investment earnings, potentially increasing the amount available for future giving.

Selecting the right Public Giving Fund or PuAF provider is therefore a critical decision.

Here are the top things to consider when selecting the right public giving fund for your giving:

Can I transfer my sub-fund to another provider (portability)?

One of the most important considerations is whether the Public Giving Fund or PuAF allows you to move to another structure, which is referred to as “portability”. Portability enables donors to transfer their sub-fund to another public giving fund provider or establish a Private Ancillary Fund (PAF) in the future if their philanthropic needs evolve.

Not all providers offer this flexibility. Without portability, donors may find themselves locked into a structure that no longer aligns with their giving objectives, service expectations, or investment preferences.

The APS Foundation supports portability to both alternative PuAF providers and future PAF structures, recognising that philanthropic strategies often develop over time. This flexibility helps ensure donors remain in the structure best suited to their long-term goals.

What are the fees and overall costs?

Over time, high fees can materially reduce the balance available for charitable giving.

Look for a provider that offers a low, all-inclusive fee structure, ensuring transparency and cost-effectiveness. Directly inquire about any additional Trustee, transaction, or investment management fees, which may not always be readily disclosed.

The APS Foundation charges a competitive administration fee of 1.025% per annum (incl GST). External investment manager fees, where applicable, are additional, although many are rebated. As at 31 December 2025, these fees were 0.24% per annum for the Focused Portfolio and 0.40% per annum for the General Portfolio.*

What is the Investment strategy of the giving fund, and what are the investment options? What are the fees and performance?

With tax-free investment returns on earnings within a public giving fund, there’s a great opportunity to grow your fund while also supporting charitable causes. Poor performance and excessive investment fees can meaningfully erode future giving capacity.

When assessing providers, consider:

• the experience and reputation of the investment managers
• historical investment performance over the long term
• whether returns are quoted net of fees
• alignment between the investment strategy and your personal values

The APS Foundation’s investment program is overseen by highly regarded portfolio managers Chris Cuffe and David Wright. Donors can choose between General and Focused Portfolio options, both incorporating a selection of leading Australian fund managers, many of whom provide services on a low-fee or pro bono basis. This approach helps maximise charitable balances while maintaining cost efficiency.

How can I access my sub-fund balance and activity?

Ease of access and timely information are increasingly important considerations for donors.

Look for a provider that offers:

• a user-friendly platform providing access account information
• easy to use contribution and granting processes
• responsive administration and support

The APS Foundation provides donors with access to a secure online portal featuring real-time information on fund activity and monthly investment balance updates. Grants are processed weekly, allowing donors to recommend distributions according to their preferred schedule. Our client administration team is also readily available to assist you as required.

Assess the provider’s dedication to accountability and transparency by checking the timeliness of its reporting with the charity regulator. You can do this by reviewing its public record with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).

The APS Foundation maintains a strong commitment to accountability and consistently meets its regulatory reporting obligations.

Is the fund meeting governance and reporting obligations?

Strong governance is essential to ensuring charitable funds are managed responsibly and sustainably. When evaluating a Public Giving Fund or PuAF, consider breadth and depth of experience across both the philanthropic and investment sectors within the PuAF’s trustee.

The APS Foundation is governed by a trustee board comprising experienced professionals across investment, advisory, and philanthropic sectors, providing robust oversight and stewardship of donor funds.

Is philanthropic support and guidance available?

Consider the support, networks and resources available to help you give to causes and charities you care about.

APS Foundation provides donors with access to experienced giving specialists who can assist with identifying impactful organisations, sharing philanthropic insights, and connecting donors with a broader community of like-minded philanthropists.

Can I build a legacy with my giving fund?

A giving fund can become a lasting philanthropic legacy that extends beyond a donor’s lifetime and engages future generations in charitable giving. Consider whether the provider offers support and opportunities for legacy planning.

The APS Foundation allows donors to nominate successors, direct bequests from their estate into their giving fund, and establish statements of wishes to guide future charitable distributions.

How can I choose the right Public Giving Fund or PuAF?

Choosing the right Public Giving Fund or PuAF is about selecting a long-term philanthropic partner that aligns with your values, objectives, and vision for impact.

By carefully assessing flexibility, fees, investment capability, governance, transparency, and donor support, you can position your charitable capital to grow and create meaningful benefit for the causes and communities you care about most.

APS can help you set up your giving fund in the APS Foundation. If you had any questions, contact our team.

* For current fees and investment information, please contact APS.

Updated May 2026