Raising funds for your church can sometimes feel like herding cats… in sandals. But don’t worry, we’ve rounded up ten creative, cheeky, and 100% Aussie-approved fundraising ideas for churches that’ll have your congregation laughing, giving, and maybe even dancing in the aisles.

Whether you’re building a new hall, upgrading the sound system (because no one wants mic feedback during prayer), or supporting community missions, these ideas will raise funds and a few eyebrows—in the best way possible.

And if you’d rather not be stuck juggling spreadsheets and sausage sizzles, Oktion is your behind-the-scenes digital mate to help you manage it all.

1. Bibles & Bingo Night

Because nothing brings the people together like a little healthy competition. Host a bingo night in the church hall with prizes donated by the community. Mix in a few faith-themed bingo boards like “Things Pastor Says” or “Kids Running in the Aisles.”

2. Blessing of the Pets… and a Pet Photo Booth

Invite families to bring their furry (or feathery or scaly) friends for a blessing—and charge a gold coin for each adorable pet portrait. Bonus: the dog with the most stylish jumper wins eternal glory (or a chew toy).

3. Bake Sale… But Make It Biblical

Think: “Loaves & Fishes” themed cupcakes or “Noah’s Ark” cookie packs. Great way to get the youth group involved. And let’s be real—Aussies can’t resist baked goods, especially if there’s a slice of lemon coconut cake on offer.

4. Fundraising Ideas for Churches Don’t Have to Be Boring

Let’s ditch the old-school meat tray raffle and get inventive! Try a “Mystery Envelope Wall” where donors pick envelopes with surprise prizes, gift cards, or hilarious dares (e.g., the vicar has to do a TikTok dance—bless him).

This is where Oktion** really shines**—you can run digital raffles and manage ticketing easily, all without needing to call your cousin who “used to work in IT.”

5. Holy Grounds: Pop-Up Coffee Stall

Open a weekend coffee stand outside the church. Serve up lattes and scriptures. Have church volunteers do the brewing while youth members hand out inspirational napkins. Call it “Brew & Be Blessed.”

6. Church Car Wash… With Gospel Tunes

Nothing says “community spirit” like washing utes and hatchbacks in the church carpark. Crank the Hillsong playlist, throw in a sausage sizzle, and boom—instant fundraiser that smells like dish soap and heaven.

7. Sunday Fashion Parade (Yes, Really)

Get your parishioners to model second-hand or op-shop fashion in a wholesome catwalk event. Everyone pays a small fee to attend. There’s laughter, community spirit, and probably someone’s nan strutting in sequins.

Check out this great guide to op-shop events from the Australian Op Shop Week initiative for extra inspo!

8. Fundraising Ideas for Churches That Involve Zero Sausages

Not every fundraiser has to involve a BBQ (gasp!). Try an online giving campaign, a church-wide challenge (like “Pray & Step” fitness tracker comp), or a digital trivia night hosted on Zoom. Pair it with Oktion to make things smooth, simple, and trackable.

9. “Donate for a Dare” Sunday Service

Let your congregation submit dares for the pastor or church leaders—and others can donate to make them happen. Think: “sing the sermon,” “preach in a onesie,” or “use only Aussie slang for 5 minutes.” Spiritually hilarious.

10. Holy Garden Market Day

Have a mini market day in the churchyard with homemade jams, veggie seedlings, crafts, and baked goods. Invite local artists and musicians, and turn it into a full-blown “Sunday Funday.” Entry by donation, good vibes mandatory.

Final Amen: Wrapping It All Up

With a little creativity (and maybe a little glitter), fundraising ideas for churches can go from “dry as toast” to “hallelujah-worthy.” Whether it’s pets, pastries or pop-up cafés, the goal is to gather people, spark joy, and raise those much-needed dollars.

And for the bits that make your brain hurt—like donation tracking, campaign setup, or automating thank-you messages—Oktion is your go-to. Built for Aussies, by Aussies, to make fundraising a blessing, not a burden.

Now go forth and fundraise, you glorious givers of good.