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Bequests and
gift in wills
Become a Barnardos Big Heart and make being a champion for children your legacy.
Your gift in will can keep a generation of children safe and protected
In Australia today, there are sadly more than 45,400 children unable to live with their parents
due to abuse and neglect.
At Barnardos, we believe in a future where no child is neglected or abused, and every child feels safe.
That’s why we support children, young people, parents and families through over 100 programs and services.
Leaving a gift in your Will, no matter how big or small, will help give Australia’s vulnerable children the opportunity to grow up with the love and support that every child deserves.
Download our FREE guide on “How to leave a gift in your Will”
Making a Will can seem daunting, but it is actually a very easy thing to do. This guide outlines every step you need to take. Fill in the form below to download the guide.
Different types of gifts in a will
Residual
Percentage
Pecuniary gift
An asset
Lorna decided she wanted to help more Australian children
Lorna's lasting legacy
Video captions
“I’ve been brought up with an ethic of giving. During the Depression, my grandfather used to get the young men from Barnardo’s to come and help him on the property. He was an inspiration, I tear up every time I talk about him. He was one of the kindest men, and I think that’s how the Barnardos thing started really, and I will continue with that tradition because we just think it’s the best.”
Lorna has decided to leave a gift in her will to support disadvantaged children and young people.
“I don’t want to congratulate myself, I just think it’s something that everybody should do if they can. There is no excuse for letting these vulnerable children fall through the cracks. It shouldn’t happen. I would love to see every kid having a chance. They need something to look forward to, they need a future, and I think so many families just don’t have a future. I’ve always been so lucky, I had everything to look forward to. I just want them to have what I had.”
Thanks to Lorna’s bequest, more children will be able to reach their brightest future.
There are many big hearted people like Lorna who have included a gift in their Will to Barnardos. Their heartfelt legacy will ensure Barnardos has secure and stable funding for vital programs and services to support children to recover and thrive, and to reach their brightest future.
Will you join them in being a Barnardos Big Heart?
We would love to talk to you to answer any questions you may have when considering a gift in your Will. If you have already included Barnardos in your Will, please let us know so we can thank you, invite you to special events and ensure you remain updated with how Barnardos is transforming the lives of children.
Legal advice for leaving a gift in Will
When making the decision to leave a gift in your Will, we recommend that you look after your loved ones first and discuss your decision with them. You can ensure your loved ones are adequately provided for by leaving 99% of your estate to them and 1% to Barnardos.
You may wish to visit Barnardos’ online Will-writing platform partner, Safewill which enables you to create your bespoke Will online in your own time and have it reviewed by a practicing Australian solicitor at a special discounted cost. Alternatively, you may prefer to seek the advice of your solicitor or legal adviser. We suggest the following wording to be used in making a gift to Barnardos:
I give and bequeath to Barnardos Australia, ABN 18 068 557 906, for its general purposes, …
INSERT:
“the rest and residue of my Estate”
OR
“a sum of money representing __% of the value of my residuary Estate”
OR
“the sum of $___”
OR
“the following specific items_____”
free of all duties, and the receipt of the Secretary or other authorised officer shall be a complete and sufficient discharge for the Executor(s).
Gift in wills FAQs
What is a Bequest in a Will?
A bequest in a will is a gift left to a person, organisation, or charity as part of your estate. It can take many forms, such as money, property, or valuable items, and ensures that your wishes are honoured after your passing. Many people choose to leave bequests to charities or causes they care about to create a lasting impact.
Can you make a gift in a will?
Yes, you can make a gift in a will by specifying which assets or amounts you wish to leave to particular individuals, organisations, or charities. This allows you to ensure that your loved ones and a cause you support benefit from your estate. Gifts in a will can be tailored to your preferences, whether it’s a specific item, a sum of money, or a percentage of your estate.
If I already have a Will, what is the easiest way to amend it to include Barnardos Australia?
You will need to make a codicil to your existing Will. This can easily be organised by contacting your solicitor. You will then need to visit their office to finalise and sign the codicil.
Never amend your Will by crossing something out and writing something different – even if it’s just amending a name or an address.
Should I keep my Will up to date?
It’s a good idea to review your Will every few years to ensure that it accurately reflects your current financial and personal circumstances. For example, you may have become married or divorced, or a beneficiary may have passed away.
Is there a kind of gift that Barnardos Australia prefers?
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what form your gift will take, and we are extremely grateful for whatever you deem appropriate. However, we generally recommend a percentage gift or a residual bequest.
Can I leave property or a personal item to Barnardos Australia?
We welcome specific items of value such as jewellery, artwork or property. We will need your permission to sell the items and use the cash funds to support our work.
Can I leave a gift to a specific area of work?
Leaving a bequest for general use is most effective, as it means your donation will be put toward our area of greatest need, at the time the gift is realised.
You may wish to direct your gift to a certain area. To discuss this option, please contact our Bequests Manager on 02 9218 2311 for a confidential conversation or use the form below.
Do I need to tell my family about my decision to leave a gift in my Will to Barnardos Australia?
It is crucial to discuss this decision with your family. This will help ensure that your wishes are carried out.
What if I am only able to leave a modest gift?
Barnardos Australia is honoured to have the trust and support of generous people like you. Every gift, regardless of size, makes a difference to young lives and is greatly appreciated.
What are the different types of gifts in a will?
There are several types of gifts you can include in a will, such as:
Pecuniary gifts – A specific sum of money left to a person or charity.
An asset – Such as jewelry, property, or shares.
Residuary gifts – A portion or the remainder of your estate after all debts, taxes, and other gifts have been distributed.
Percentage gifts – A percentage of either your entire estate or the residue of your estate
Questions about gifts in Will?
For a confidential conversation about leaving gifts in wills please leave us a message or email us at: bequests@barnardos.org.au
