25 Best Fundraising Ideas for Schools in Australia

Raising money for your school (or a cause your school cares about) can be powerful. But finding fundraising ideas for schools that are actually doable? That’s the tricky bit.

You want something simple, fun, and meaningful. Something the kids will enjoy, the staff can get behind, and families will want to support. And, ideally, something that reflects the values your school already stands for.

We’re here to share some of our favourite ideas. Use this guide to find ideas that are easy to run, inclusive, and genuinely worthwhile. Whether you’re a teacher, an administrative staff member or on the Parent and Citizens’ Association, there’s an idea to suit everyone.

We’ve also included tips to help you make your fundraiser a success, as well as a few suggestions to keep things on track.

Fundraising that works in real schools

There’s no single “best” fundraiser that works for every school. What’s right for your community might be totally different from what works down the road — and that’s exactly how it should be.

Some schools have a strong parent network ready to run events. Others rely on student leadership. Some have time for a full-term campaign. Others need something quick and low-fuss.

The good news? There are fundraising ideas to suit all of these and you don’t need to reinvent the wheel.

You can stick with a tried-and-true option or try something new this year. Mix and match. Start small. Build from what’s already working.

We grouped the ideas below to help you find the right fit — whether you’ve got 30 minutes to plan or the whole school is ready to get involved.

Quick ideas for busy terms

Short on time? These fundraising ideas for schools are easy to run, low on admin, and still pack a punch. They’re perfect for mid-term momentum or when energy is running low but you still want to make an impact.

1. Gold coin dress-up day

Pick a theme — footy colours, future careers, crazy socks? And ask for a gold coin donation to join in. It’s simple and fun. Bonus points if the staff get involved too.

2. Guess the lollies in the jar

Set up a guessing jar in the front office and charge a small fee per guess. It’s a low-effort fundraiser that builds buzz, especially with younger students. Just make sure the prize is worth it.

3. Bake sale

An old favourite for a reason. Ask families to contribute baked goods (or allergy-safe alternatives), set up a table before or after school, and let students help with sales. Keep pricing simple and bring change.

4. Read-a-thon or walk-a-thon

Students collect sponsors and log their reading minutes or walking laps over a week or two. It’s a great way to combine fundraising with a curriculum-aligned goal — and encourages healthy habits along the way.

5. Free dress Friday

A no-uniform day always gets attention. Choose a date, set a donation amount, and keep the messaging clear. You can add a theme (like “favourite hat” or “op shop style”) to keep it fresh.

These ideas might be quick, but they’re tried and tested and can raise real money with minimal fuss.

Fundraising ideas for students that get the whole school involved

The best fundraisers aren’t just about raising money — they help build community. When students, teachers and families all play a part, the energy lifts and the memories tend to stick.

1. School disco

A classic school fundraiser — and still a hit. Sell low-cost tickets, keep snacks simple, and run it early evening so younger students can join in, too. Consider themed dress codes or song requests to give students a voice.

2. Crazy hair or hat day

Students pay a gold coin to show off their silliest styles. It’s fun, creative, and inclusive (no need to buy anything new). Offer prizes for effort, colour, or best homemade accessories.

3. Teacher vs student sports match

Footy, basketball, netball — choose whatever your school loves. Spectators donate gold coins to watch, and you can sell icy poles or popcorn on the sidelines. Bonus idea: let the crowd donate to “bend the rules” (e.g. teachers have to hop on one leg for 50c).

4. Talent show

Open the stage to music, dance, comedy or surprise acts. Charge a small entry fee and invite families to attend. This one builds confidence and school spirit, too.

5. Outdoor movie night

Use the school oval, a borrowed projector and some beanbags or picnic rugs. Sell snacks or let families bring their own. It’s relaxed, fun, and a great way to welcome new families or wrap up a term.

Big energy doesn’t have to mean big spending. These ideas work because they invite everyone in and let the school shine.

Community-first fundraising ideas for schools

When your school connects with the wider community, everyone benefits. Invite families, neighbours, and local businesses to get involved.

1. School fete or twilight market

Stalls, games, second-hand goods, student performances, food trucks — it’s a big effort, but often the biggest return. Partner with the Parents and Citizens’ Association (P&C) or local groups to share the load, and focus on what makes your school unique.

2. Car boot sale

Families and locals pay a small fee to reserve a spot and sell their pre-loved goods. Run it on a weekend morning, offer coffee or a sausage sizzle, and you’ve got a mini-market with low overheads.

3. Community picnic

Set a date, spread out the picnic rugs, and invite everyone in. Add a bake stall, busking performances or student art for sale. Entry can be by donation and the vibe is golden.

4. “Pay what you can” cafe

Set up a pop-up lunch or morning tea in the school hall or library. Families contribute baked goods, and guests donate whatever they can. It removes pressure and keeps the focus on generosity.

5. Garden working bee with a fundraising twist

Turn a Saturday of weeding, planting or building veggie beds into a fundraiser. Ask for gold coin donations, run a raffle or sausage sizzle — and let students sell seedlings or produce from the garden.

Fundraising doesn’t have to be separate from school life. When you build connection first, the support tends to follow.

Creative and sustainable fundraising ideas

Looking for something a little different? These next school fundraising ideas don’t just raise money — they nurture creativity, community care and a sense of purpose.

1. Art auction or exhibition

Turn your classroom into a gallery. Students create artworks (paintings, drawings, digital pieces, ceramics — whatever’s accessible) and invite families to view and bid. Keep prices modest and focus on celebrating student talents.

2. Plant or produce sale

Grow herbs, veggies or native plants in the school garden, then sell them at a stall or market day. You can also include homemade jams, worm juice or seed packets. 

3. Uniform upcycle or swap stall

Invite families to donate clean second-hand uniforms, then sell or swap them for a small donation. It saves money, reduces waste, and helps ensure every student has what they need to feel confident at school.

4. Zine, cookbook or storybook

Gather student writing, recipes, drawings or reflections into a printed booklet. Sell copies at the office or school events. This one builds pride and literacy as well as funds.

5. Reuse market or waste-free challenge

Run a market of pre-loved books, toys or clothes — or challenge each class to run a waste-free fundraiser. Think beeswax wrap sales, plastic-free lunches, or DIY recycled craft kits. It gets people thinking as well as giving.

These ideas prove that fundraising can be creative, thoughtful, and aligned with the world you want your students to grow up in.

Big-impact, student-led campaigns

Some of the most powerful school fundraisers start with students themselves. When young people lead the way — with support from teachers and families — they learn to speak up, stand up, and create real change.

These ideas for school fundraisers are especially powerful for upper primary and secondary students, or for schools already exploring social justice, sustainability or global citizenship in the classroom.

1. Walk for water

Students carry water around the school oval or local area to simulate the long walks many communities face to access clean water. It’s a powerful learning experience, and a fundraiser people remember. Donations can be collected per lap or as a group target.

2. Digital detox or sponsored silence

Students ask for donations to give up screens or stay silent for a set period of time. It’s simple, low-cost, and invites important reflection on privilege, voice and connection.

3. Climate action fundraiser

Whether it’s a plant-a-thon, a recycled fashion show, or a community clean-up with pledges, climate action campaigns let students link learning with action. Include posters or class presentations to raise awareness.

4. Peer-led awareness campaigns

Students choose an issue they care about — like gender equality, refugee rights, or First Peoples’ justice — and design a week of activities to raise awareness and funds. It could include lunchtime games, film screenings, displays or creative performances.

5. Themed challenge weeks

Think “Live Below the Line”, “Zero Waste Week”, or “Walk to School Month”. Create a week-long campaign that also connects to curriculum areas like health, geography, civics or science. 

So, they’re some of our most-loved school fundraising ideas. Now let’s look quickly at how you can make your fundraiser truly memorable. 

Tips to make any fundraiser a success

No matter what kind of fundraiser you choose, a few simple things can help it run more smoothly.

Keep it simple

Fundraising doesn’t need to be flashy to work. Clear messaging, a good cause, and a plan that fits your school’s capacity will go much further than over-complicating things.

Share the “why”

People give when they understand what they’re supporting. Whether it’s new books for the library or funds for a justice cause, make the impact visible. A few posters, a student speech, or a quick assembly announcement can go a long way.

Let students lead

When students have ownership — whether that’s designing the poster, running the event, or collecting donations — they care more, learn more, and often raise more, too.

Make it inclusive

Choose fundraisers that everyone can join, regardless of age, background or income. Free or low-cost participation options help build community. 

Don’t skip the thank you

Whether someone donates $2 or volunteers their whole Saturday, take the time to say thanks. A class-made card, a shoutout in the newsletter, or a simple conversation can turn a one-time supporter into a long-term one.

A successful fundraiser isn’t just about the total raised. It’s about how people felt and what they’ll remember next time.

Important things to check first

Before you launch into planning the fundraiser for your school, it’s worth making sure everything’s in place. A few quick checks now can save stress later, and help keep your fundraiser inclusive, fair, and fully above board.

Get the right permissions

Always speak to your school leadership or P&C before locking anything in. Some fundraisers might need formal approval — especially if they involve public spaces, outside guests, or collecting money from the wider community.

Keep it safe and age-appropriate

Think about things like supervision, accessibility, allergies, and student wellbeing. Make sure every student can take part safely (and no one feels left out).

Be clear about the cause

If you’re fundraising for something outside the school (like a charity), make sure it’s clear where the money is going and how it’ll be used. People appreciate transparency. It builds trust.

Record what you raise

It’s important to keep track of the money that comes in and how it’s spent or donated. Ask your school office or P&C for help with this if you’re unsure.

Respect school policies

Your school might already have rules around sponsorships, handling cash, or commercial fundraising. A quick check early on can help you avoid hiccups down the track.

Looking for a cause to support?

If your school is looking to support a bigger cause — something with global impact and strong values — Oxfam could be a great fit.

We work with communities around the world to fight the inequality that fuels poverty and respond to urgent humanitarian crises. That includes supporting clean water projects, helping people recover after disasters, and advocating for climate justice and First Peoples’ rights.

These are issues that many schools already explore in the classroom. Fundraising can bring that learning to life. It gives students a chance to take action and see how their effort contributes to something bigger.

If you’d like to start a fundraiser that supports Oxfam’s ongoing work, we’d love to have you with us. Whether you raise $50 or $5,000, your school can be part of creating lasting, positive change.  Fundraise with us or donate directly. 

You can support crises like those in Gaza or South Sudan, or explore our current appeals to make change happen today. Every action counts. And every student can be part of the difference.

Have you got some questions? Learn about where the money we raise goes.