Philanthropic investment expert Michael Traill delivered the 2026 Fairley La Trobe Lecture on Monday, August 3 at La Trobe University’s Shepparton campus.
The annual event brings prominent experts to Shepparton to share their insights with the community.
The event is presented in partnership with the Fairley Foundation and La Trobe University.
Mr Traill is the executive director at For Purpose Investment Partners and travelled to Shepparton from Sydney.
Mr Traill spoke about effective philanthropy and how capital could be used to drive social change.
He also spoke about two examples of philanthropy that had benefited First Nations communities, an alternative pathway for youth offenders in the Northern Territory and a learn-to-drive program in Shepparton.
Mr Traill praised these efforts for “connecting the dots and finding ways to make a difference on the ground”.
Mr Traill also covered recent changes to deductible gift receipts that make access easier for community fundraising, which could create “a golden age of philanthropy”.
“I think that’s quite exciting,” Mr Traill said.
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