Hopes are high that this year’s Good Friday Appeal will raise a record-breaking amount for sick and injured children across Victoria.
Now marking its 95th year on April 3, the appeal has come a long way since its beginnings in 1931 as a small local sports carnival. Today, it stands as one of Victoria’s most cherished Easter traditions.
From dropping coins into collection tins, to making online donations, buying raffle tickets, or tuning into the Channel 7 telethon from 10am, Victorians continue to show incredible generosity — even during times when households are doing it tough.
Premier Jacinta Allan officially launched this year’s appeal with a visit to young patients at the Royal Children’s Hospital.
She spent time with six-year-old Hunter and eleven-year-old Jack on the Cockatoo ward. Hunter is living with a chronic neurological condition and recently underwent a lumbar puncture, while Jack is recovering from surgery following a severe sinus infection.
The Premier was joined by Appeal Chairman Penny Fowler and hospital CEO Dr Peter Steer.
This year’s campaign continues a strong focus on improving care beyond Melbourne. Building on recent efforts, the appeal and the hospital will again commit $3 million towards regional paediatric health services — funding vital equipment, leadership, and training to ensure children can receive high-quality care closer to home.
Good Friday Appeal Executive Director Rebecca Cowan says the campaign is powered by the community.
“We are privileged to share the stories of extraordinary children and families,” she said.
“Every act of kindness matters — from kids fundraising for other kids, to volunteers giving their time, and businesses and communities stepping up. Together, this support has helped deliver life-saving treatments, world-class equipment, and care for entire families.”
She’s encouraging Victorians to give what they can.
“Let’s continue this incredible legacy and give for the kids.”
Ways you can support the Good Friday Appeal:
- Donate online
- Give to local street collectors or door knockers
- Purchase a $10 raffle ticket for the chance to win from a prize pool worth over $280,000
- Call 1300 277 325 between 9am and 11:30pm on Good Friday
- Head along to Kids Day Out at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (10am–5pm)
- Visit local “Kids Day Out and About” fundraising events across Melbourne
- Attend the Superclash at Marvel Stadium, with $5 from every ticket donated
- Watch the Channel 7 telethon from 10am–3pm and 7pm–11:45pm
