Walter and Eliza Hall Trust Grant Programs

During the middle of the 19th century, Walter Hall came to Australia from England with only a few pounds in his pocket to seek his fortune in the gold rush. After a shaky start, he became a very successful and wealthy businessman. Much of his wealth came from Queensland's Mt. Morgan gold mine. He also acquired substantial holdings in the booming pastoral industry and his entrepreneurial skills also extended to transport. He was one of the last owners of Cobb and Co, the horse-drawn coach line of Australian history and tradition. He died in 1911 aged 80 years. 

Both Walter and his wife, Eliza, were active philanthropists during their life together. In the year following her husband's death Eliza set up a charitable trust with a donation of £1,000,000. It was named the Walter and Eliza Hall Trust.  Since the establishment of the original trust by Eliza Hall in 1912, the Walter and Eliza Hall Trusts have been helping those in need. 

In this time, thousands of Australians and their families who experience the effects of poverty, disability, and disease have been assisted in times of crisis. Many others have been helped to reach their full potential. 

In addition to those individuals, many charitable organisations have been assisted. One notable example is the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in Melbourne, which was established in 1915. 

Our aim is to make a meaningful and, where we can, ongoing difference to the wellbeing and quality of life to those Australians who find themselves in desperate circumstances. The Walter and Eliza Hall Trust provides help to those who are financially disadvantaged. We also have a focus on assisting those living with disability. 

If you are interested in reading more about our history, please email info@wehalltrust.org.au for a free copy of our book or visit the Walter and Eliza Trust website for more information.