Power research that makes an impact

Philanthropy enables us to do the life-changing, evidence-based research that makes a difference to people, and changes the game for Australians.

Our research is focussed on five priority areas, linked to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. Our expertise across disciplines positions us to excel in these areas and positively impact our communities.

These research themes are:

Speak with us today by calling (03) 9479 2011 or emailing fundraising@latrobe.edu.au about supporting ground-breaking research at La Trobe.

Impact Story: Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre (OTARC)

Australia's first centre dedicated to life-changing autism research, OTARC, was made possible with an initial donation from Mrs Olga Tennison, AO. Since then, OTARC has been recognised in Australia and internationally for world-leading research – making a real difference in the lives of Autistic people, as well as to their families and carers.

Mrs Tennison passed away in January 2021, leaving an extraordinary gift of $45 million to La Trobe. This landmark donation – one of the single largest to a tertiary education provider in Australia – will support OTARC’s work in perpetuity.

Her generous bequest has also enabled OTARC to expand its operations, and power the next generation of Autism scholars. Their valuable work translates evidence-based research into practical applications and continues to influence Government policy. Explore how OTARC continues to make an impact.