Gifts in Wills have played a vital role throughout WEHI’s history, helping to shape the future of health through pioneering research.

These valued commitments have enabled new ways of understanding and treating disease, supported by world-leading technologies and innovative scientific approaches.

WEHI’s ‘enabler labs’ ensure that our researchers have specialist tools and resources to pursue bold ideas. Many of these labs only exist thanks to the foresight and generosity of people who leave a gift in their Will.

The Advanced Genomics Facility provides critical access to cutting-edge genomics technologies and the Antibody Facility produces tailor-made antibodies essential to our research. Both facilities were supported by a gift from the Estate of Neil Stanley Haysom in 2021, a legacy that continues to power discovery today.

Dr Daniel Brown, senior research officer in the Genomics Lab, said: “Gifts in Wills enable our scientists to innovate in their research, be creative with their ideas and take risks to discover new techniques.”

Everyone who chooses to leave a gift in their Will to WEHI is warmly welcomed into the Walter and Eliza Hall Society. Society members are invited to engage with WEHI scientists and hear first-hand about current research and breakthroughs. These gatherings offer scientists a meaningful way to say thank you and ensure bequestors feel part of the WEHI community during their lifetimes.

We are honoured to announce that former WEHI President Jane Hemstritch AO has recently accepted the role of co-patron of the Walter and Eliza Hall Society, alongside Sir Gus Nossal AC CBE.

In her acceptance, Jane reflected that “recognising those who have chosen to invest in the future of medical research through a gift in their Will is truly important.

Legacy giving of this kind provides the kind of sustained, visionary support that allows WEHI to pursue the bold scientific questions that matter most.

“I am proud to be associated with that mission.”