UWS Foundation Council

100% of every gift contributing to excellence

In 2013 the UWS Board of Trustees announced the establishment of a new UWS Foundation Council, as a subcommittee of the Board of Trustees.

In establishing the new UWS Foundation Council, the Board acknowledges the important role of philanthropy in supporting the vision of the University and the need for a change in the governance of philanthropic activities through the dissolution of a separate University of Western Sydney Foundation entity and the creation of this new governance structure.

The University of Western Sydney Foundation was established in 1991 as a wholly owned entity of UWS and trustee of the UWS Foundation Trust, an ATO-approved Gift Fund with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status. However, as a public university UWS already holds DGR status in its own right and is able to receive tax deductible gifts directly, without the need for a separate structure.

The new UWS Foundation Council will report directly to the Board of Trustees to provide a more efficient and effective approach to fundraising and philanthropy, more clearly guided by the strategic priorities of the University.

Mr Danny Gilbert, Managing Director of leading national legal firm Gilbert and Tobin will remain as Chair of the new UWS Foundation Council and continue to ensure that donors' wishes are fulfilled so that all gifts inspire lives and enhance the future of our community.

Under the new UWS Foundation Council, all donations will be receipted directly by the University. All gifts will continue to be directed to the purpose for which they are gifted and donors will be provided with appropriate recognition for their philanthropic support. UWS does not deduct administration or other fees from your donation, which means 100% of your gift goes straight into the University.

Through sustained partnerships between the University, the community and the world of business, the University aims to support educational and regional development by raising funds for important projects such as scholarships, prizes, research, teaching positions, academic programs and teaching facilities.

Through new and existing partnerships, the University strives to overcome the increasing pressures faced by universities to find sources of non-government funding. With community and industry support, UWS will continue to provide the highest standard of learning opportunities to the Greater Western Sydney Region and beyond.

As in the past, the philanthropic activities of UWS will continue to be led by a group of individuals who are passionate about the University, its students, staff and community. As a sub-committee of the UWS Board of Trustees, this new group will have a direct connection to decision making and ensure fundraising activities are guided by the strategy of the institution. The new directors of the UWS Foundation Council will volunteer their time.

With the desire to make a difference and a passion for providing opportunity, the UWS Foundation Council is bringing knowledge to life.