Over the past 50 years, Gifts in Wills has evolved into a major source of funds for Australian charities. Generational wealth, changing estate values and the professionalisation of the sector have transformed this space significantly. The next 50 years will bring even greater change for charities.

This session explores the evolving landscape of charitable bequests through the lens of emerging estate trends, shifting donor demographics and changing patterns of wealth transfer.

Drawing on the successful “State of Estates” presentation in 2026, this presentation will examine how assets and bequestor profiles are changing, what this means for future gift income, and where the greatest opportunities and risks may lie for charities. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to future-proof their bequest programs, strengthen long-term pipeline growth and position their organisations to thrive in the largest intergenerational wealth transfer in history.