Foundations
Foundation Setup Cost Calculator (Australia)
Compare the cost of setting up a Private Giving Fund (formerly a Private Ancillary Fund / PAF) versus a sub-fund in a Public Giving Fund (formerly a Public Ancillary Fund / PuAF) in Australia.
1 year25 years
Total Cost Over 10 Years
Private Giving Fund
$70,000
10 year total
Public Giving Fund (sub-fund)
$10,250
10 year total
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Private Giving Fund | Public Giving Fund (sub-fund) |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Cost | $5,000 – $15,000 | $0 – $500 |
| Setup Time | 4 – 8 weeks | 1 – 2 days |
| Annual Cost | $3,000 – $10,000/year | 0.5% – 1.5% of balance |
| Minimum Corpus | $500,000 recommended | $10,000 – $20,000 typical |
| Control | Full control — you choose the board | Advisory — fund trustee makes final call |
| Min Distribution | 6% of net assets per year | 6% of net assets per year |
| Reporting | Annual return to ATO + ACNC | Handled by trustee |
| Privacy | High — not publicly listed | Moderate — some public reporting |
| Best For | HNW families, $500K+ to give | Getting started, $10K–$500K |
What is a foundation? In Australia, a Private Giving Fund (formerly Private Ancillary Fund/PAF) is a tax-deductible trust structure that lets families and individuals establish their own philanthropic foundation. A sub-fund in a Public Giving Fund (formerly Public Ancillary Fund/PuAF) offers a simpler, lower-cost alternative — the fund handles compliance while you recommend grants. Not sure which fits? Tell us what you're trying to do and we'll help you find the right home.
Weighing up your own foundation? Tell us what you're trying to do and we'll help you find the right fit.
Find the right home for your giving