It’s on. The Canberra Day Appeal is officially launching, inviting Canberrans to give where they live and help make our city a stronger, more connected place for everyone.
Each year, the appeal brings the community together to support Hands Across Canberra and its network of local charity partners working on the issues that matter most, from mental health and disability inclusion to homelessness, food security and community connection.
From everyday donations to lacing up your runners, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
Give to your favourite local charity
From 30 January to 20 March, Canberra charities will be boosting their fundraising as part of the appeal. If there’s a cause close to your heart, now is the time to back it.
When you donate through the Hands Across Canberra portal, every dollar raised is matched up to $2,500 per charity, meaning your generosity goes twice as far. It’s a simple way to double your impact while supporting the organisations that quietly hold our community together.
Past Canberra Day Appeal funding has helped local charities:
- expand frontline mental health and crisis support
- deliver early-intervention programs for children and families
- provide emergency relief, food and practical assistance during times of hardship
- strengthen grassroots organisations through capacity building and collaboration
These are not abstract outcomes. They are neighbours helped, families supported and lives steadied, right here in the ACT.
Lace up for the Canberra Day Appeal Fun Run
The much-loved Canberra Day Appeal Fun Run is back on 9 March, and it’s bigger, brighter and more joyful than ever.
With 5km and 10km courses, the Fun Run welcomes everyone, whether you’re chasing a personal best or soaking up the atmosphere with friends.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Burley Griffin and Lennox Gardens, the day is as much about community celebration as it is about fundraising. Expect colour, creativity and plenty of smiles. Yes, costumes are very much encouraged.
You can:
- register as an individual or team
- ask friends and family to sponsor your run or walk
- choose a favourite charity to fundraise for
- cheer from the sidelines and be part of the buzz
Registrations are now open, and all the details can be found via the official registration page.
Why it matters
The Canberra Day Appeal is about more than a single event or donation. It’s about building a culture of local generosity, where Canberrans support Canberrans.
Every contribution helps strengthen the safety nets that make this city a good place to live, especially on the days when life feels heavy. When we give together, we create ripple effects that last well beyond Canberra Day itself.
So, whether you donate, fundraise, run, walk or cheer, you’re playing a part in something bigger.
Will you put your hand up for Canberra this Canberra Day?
