Philanthropy must not hold back in times of crisis. This was the crucial message of Philanthropy Australia’s conference, Passion and Purpose, held in Sydney on 16-17 October. The world economic meltdown was a major focus for discussion both in and outside sessions. The opening plenary address by president of Philanthropy Australia, Bruce Bonyhady, challenged the philanthropic sector to find ways of directing creativity to meeting new immediate needs as well as maximizing long-term positive social change. Conference delegates, mainly drawn from trustees and professional staff of family and independent foundations, and individual philanthropists and professional staff, welcomed the call to use courage and wisdom in moving through uncertain economic times.