Telethon 2024 donations reach new highs despite cost of living pressures

Despite growing cost-of-living pressures, West Australians dipping into their pockets for Telethon have shown themselves to be more generous than ever.

While big cheques flowed from major organisations and companies to help raise a record total of $83.3 million for sick children, the number of donations from individual members of the community also soared to new highs.

Donations through the call centre increased by 40 per cent compared to last year — with one person even pledging a staggering $25,000.

Individual online donations also jumped to a record-breaking high, with more than 27,000 donations totalling millions.

One family who made their own incredible donation noted how lucky West Australians were to live in such a generous community.

When Susanne and Steven Gulvin pledged $250,000 on behalf of their family, their 26-year-old daughter Nicola also contributed another $1000.

“Western Australians are truly fortunate to reside in a State characterised by a remarkable spirit of generosity and community,” Ms Gulvin said.

“This is never clearer than during Telethon weekend when countless individuals come together to support sick and vulnerable children. The willingness to contribute — whether through time, fundraising or donations — is unwavering.

“That Telethon ranks as the highest-donating telethon per capita in the world simply confirms what we already know — when the people of WA come together, our ability to change the lives of the kids who need it the most is unmatched.”

Channel 7 Telethon Trust chair Richard Goyder said this year really showed the community spirit of Telethon.

“The donations coming from individuals in the community was just incredible to see,” Mr Goyder said. “Even in this economic climate, people are still keen to come together and rally behind our kids.”

Seven’s 26-hour broadcast reached more than 690,000 unique viewers across Channel 7 and 7Plus over the weekend.

The average audience for the finale was up 15 per cent on last year, with a total TV audience of 191,000 tuning in for the final tally announcement.

Some donors commented they just wanted to do something for the kids who really needed help.

“Shout out to all the sick kids in hospital and at home, you bring out the great in people because of your strength, resilience and fight,” one said.

“I’m sorry I can only afford $10, it’s out of my pocket money, I’m 10 and I have had five surgeries, so I know how sad it can be for the kids that have to be there all the time,” another said. “I hope this weekend you can make all the kids smile.”

Politicians were also amazed by the outpouring of generosity.

WA Treasurer Rita Saffioti said Telethon seemed to be getting bigger each year, touching people in every suburb.

“We were surprised with the total because we know that many families have had many challenges during the year,” she said.

“But again, I think across all indicators, whether it be the mums and dads and the kids in the suburbs, we’ve seen record donations.

“We saw corporate Western Australia continue to support telethon. And of course, we were very proud to be able to contribute a record $13 million too.”

Planning Minister John Carey said all West Australians could be “incredibly proud” of Telethon and congratulated donors on an “extraordinary effort”.

“It’s not just an institution, it’s become a way of life, a part of being West Australian,” he said.

“Everyone sits around, watches the TV, enjoys the fun but also understands that this is a common purpose for our state and that is to provide and help a range of services for sick kids.

“Western Australia should be deeply proud of giving to such an incredible cause.”