Communities called to decorate, celebrate and donate as “Hallowish” Returns

As Halloween approaches, a new opportunity emerges for educators, families, and early childhood services to engage children in fun and community-minded activities while supporting critically ill children across Australia.

Make-A-Wish® Australia has launched this year’s Hallowish, a Halloween-inspired fundraising initiative inviting Australians to turn their spooky celebrations into something truly magical. The campaign encourages households, schools, and businesses to decorate, celebrate and donate throughout October to raise funds that will help grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Celebrity ambassadors Dan Pasquali and Lucy Durack have thrown their support behind the campaign, joining the call for communities to get involved and make a meaningful difference.

This year’s Hallowish is proudly presented in partnership with Chupa Chups, whose “Forever Fun” brand values align with the hope, imagination and joy that Make-A-Wish strives to deliver.

“We’re delighted to support Hallowish and bring joy to families while helping make wishes come true,” said Amelia Goldsmith, Chupa Chups Brand Manager for Australia and New Zealand. “This exciting partnership is built on shared values of imagination, positivity, and joy.”

The impact of this support is already evident. Two years ago, 8-year-old Emily’s wish to be the Hulk for a day gave her strength after treatment for leukaemia. Later this year, 7-year-old Finley will experience his dream Pokémon adventure, both wishes made possible through generous community fundraising.

“Hallowish is a chance for communities to have fun while making a real difference,” said Sally Bateman, CEO of Make-A-Wish Australia. “Together with everyday Australians, we can bring hope and joy to more children like Emily and Finley.”

More than 900 children are currently on their wish journey across Australia. Every dollar raised through Hallowish supports these journeys, delivering strength and resilience to children when they need it most.

How to Get Involved

• Register at hallowish.org.au to create a fundraising page.
• Choose how to participate, decorate your home, host an event at your service, or get creative.
• Raise your first $20 to unlock a digital fundraising toolkit, or order a physical kit before 24 October

For early childhood services, Hallowish offers a valuable way to engage children in community values, imaginative play, and social giving,  all while supporting a mission that aligns with many ECEC philosophies of inclusion, empathy and positive contribution.

To learn more or register, visit www.hallowish.org.au.