About Peter Leunig
Strategic Thinker. Compassionate Leader. Courageous Advocate.
I’m Peter Leunig — a fundraising strategist, nonprofit leader, and passionate advocate committed to creating meaningful, lasting change.
Over the course of four decades, I’ve worked with some of Australia’s most respected institutions to shape advancement strategies that inspire generosity, empower communities, and reflect the deepest human values: dignity, justice, and trust.
“From Experience to Impact” or “A Life of Purpose”
My work is grounded not only in professional experience, but also in a personal journey of resilience, recovery, and purpose.
As a survivor of childhood institutional abuse, I carry a deep understanding of what it means to rebuild from adversity — and to use that experience as a force for good.
This lived insight informs my approach to everything I do: I don’t just help organisations raise money. I help them tell stories that matter, cultivate trust, and build communities where generosity is a reflection of shared values.
Leadership Experience
Across my career, I’ve led major advancement efforts in education, Indigenous empowerment, mental health, and the arts.
Roles I’ve held include:
Executive Director of Institutional Advancement
Macquarie University
Director of Development
University of Western Australia
Head of Fundraising
St Vincent’s & Mater Health Sydney
Founding Director
Hackett Foundation and Macquarie University Foundation
Non-Executive Director
Stronger Smarter Institute
I currently advise organisations including Flourish Australia, Piano Plus Australia – Organiser of The Sydney International Piano Competition, and others committed to social impact and community transformation.
What Drives Me
Whether I’m designing a national bequest program, launching a fundraising appeal, or mentoring the next generation of sector leaders, my mission is the same:
To help organisations raise more — with purpose, integrity, and heart.
I believe great fundraising is never just about revenue. It’s about meaning. It’s about relationships. And it’s about the courageous decisions we make to align our external messages with our internal values.