Why we give
1. Lives depend on it
More than 650 million people live in extreme poverty, surviving on less than A$2 per day. Diseases associated with extreme poverty, such as malaria and parasitic worms, kill millions of people every year. Millions more are stunted or suffer chronic disease, yet these diseases can be easily prevented or alleviated.
2. We can make a difference
The scale of poverty can often feel overwhelming, yet the majority of Australians are in an incredibly fortunate position. Did you know that if you’re living on A$42,000 per year, you’re in the richest 5% of people on the planet? At A$84,000 per year, you’re in the top 1%. With the rise of evidence-driven interventions, we each have an unprecedented opportunity to transform lives. We have already made significant progress, with extreme poverty rates cut in half between 1990 and 2015.
Check out our Impact Calculator to see just how far your donation can go.
3. Because giving works
It’s easy to get disillusioned with charities, and it makes sense to be concerned where your donation goes. Here at Effective Altruism Australia, we partner with charities that are independently evaluated to be doing work that improves and saves lives. Effective interventions can – and do – break the cycle of poverty. Every dollar invested in anti-malarial bed nets increases GDP by $12. By preventing diseases, children are able to stay healthy and in school longer, and cash transfers give people the chance to invest in their businesses and livelihoods.
Have a look at Giving What we Can’s Myths About Aid to dispel some common objections and misconceptions about giving.
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