Who called?
Charity calls and fake charity scams
Charities are allowed to call you even if you're on the Do Not Call Register, so a fundraising call is often genuine. Scammers know that too - and they move fastest after floods, fires and disasters.
How to check a charity
- Ask for the charity's full name and ABN.
- Search the ACNC Charity Register - every registered Australian charity is listed.
- Give through the charity's own website, typed in yourself, rather than over the phone.
Red flags
- Pressure to give right now, or guilt when you hesitate.
- Asking for gift cards, crypto, a wire transfer or cash pick-up.
- A vague name ("the bushfire relief fund") or one very close to a well-known charity.
- They won't send information in writing first.
- Thanking you for a donation you never made, then asking for card details "to process the refund".
Genuine fundraisers must
- tell you who they are and which charity they're calling for, and whether they're paid;
- respect calling hours and stop calling if you ask.
Report the number and choose "Charity / fundraising" - say if it was real. See reported charity calls.