Australia's #1 Wishing Well Platform

Wishing Well Australia: Traditional Boxes & Digital Platforms

Complete guide to wishing wells in Australia. Whether you prefer a traditional wishing well box or modern digital platform, discover DIY ideas, where to buy, decoration tips, etiquette, and why 10,000+ Australian families choose PocketWell's free digital solution.

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What is a Wishing Well?

A wishing well is a cherished Australian tradition where guests contribute monetary gifts instead of physical presents at celebrations like weddings, birthdays, and baby showers. The practice originated from the ancient custom of tossing coins into wells for good luck and prosperity, evolving into a practical way for modern celebrants to receive financial support for their goals and dreams.

The wishing well tradition dates back to ancient European and Celtic cultures, where people threw coins into natural wells and springs believing water spirits would grant wishes and bring prosperity. In Australia, wishing wells became popular at weddings in the 1970s as couples moved away from traditional gift registries. The practice evolved from physical decorated boxes to modern digital platforms, but the core tradition remains: guests contributing money to help celebrants achieve their dreams.

Today, wishing wells are the preferred gifting method for over 75% of weddings and milestone celebrations across Australia. Rather than receiving duplicate toasters or unwanted decorative items, couples and celebrants use monetary gifts toward honeymoons, house deposits, baby expenses, or other meaningful goals. Whether you choose a traditional wishing well box or a digital platform, the tradition honours both ancient customs and modern practicality.

When Australians Use Wishing Wells

✓Weddings: The most common occasion, with 85% of Australian couples preferring cash gifts
✓Milestone Birthdays: 21st, 30th, 40th, 50th celebrations where guests want to give meaningful contributions
✓Baby Showers: Helping new parents with expenses instead of unwanted baby items
✓Engagements: Contributing to the couple's future together
✓Group Gifting: Pooling money with friends, family, or teams for one generous, stress-free gift
✓Teacher & Staff Gifts: End-of-year or appreciation gifts that are easy to organise and fair for everyone
✓Retirements & Farewells: Workplace collections for colleagues starting their next chapter

Compare Options

Traditional vs Digital Wishing Wells

Understanding the differences helps you choose the best option for your celebration. Both have their place in Australian events.

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Traditional Wishing Well Box

A decorated physical box or container placed at your event venue where guests drop cash or cheque envelopes.

Advantages:

• Traditional and familiar to older guests
• Can match your event décor
• Physical presence at venue
• No technology required

Limitations:

• Guests must attend in person
• Cash handling and security concerns
• Manual counting required
• No digital record of contributors
• Interstate/overseas guests can't participate

📱

Digital Wishing Well Platform

Modern Solution

An online platform where guests contribute via QR codes or links using cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay from anywhere.

Advantages:

• Guests contribute from anywhere in the world
• Instant bank transfers to your account
• Automatic tracking and thank you messages
• Secure payment processing
• Perfect for interstate/overseas guests
• QR codes for easy sharing
• Free for hosts (PocketWell)

Considerations:

• Small processing fee for guests (3.5%)
• Requires internet access
• Less familiar to some older guests

Feature	Traditional Box	Digital Platform
Guest Location	Must be at venue	Anywhere globally
Payment Methods	Cash, Cheque	Card, Apple Pay, Google Pay
Setup Cost	$20-150 (box purchase/rental)	Free (PocketWell)
Security	Physical risk	Bank-level encryption
Tracking	Manual counting	Automatic dashboard
Thank You Notes	Manual	Automated
Access to Funds	After event counting	Instant to bank account

Our recommendation: Digital wishing wells offer superior convenience, security, and flexibility for modern Australian celebrations. Perfect for families with interstate or overseas guests.

Create Your Free Digital Wishing Well

DIY Guide

How to Make a Traditional Wishing Well Box

Create your own wishing well box with these budget-friendly DIY options. Perfect for adding a personal touch to your celebration.

📦

1. Cardboard Box Wishing Well ($10-20)

The most budget-friendly option. Perfect for casual celebrations or when you're on a tight budget.

Materials: Large sturdy cardboard box (30-40cm), wrapping paper or fabric, ribbon, scissors, tape or glue

Steps: Cut a slot (5-10cm) in the top center. Wrap box in elegant paper or paint it to match your theme. Add decorative ribbon, artificial flowers, or lace around edges. Attach a sign saying "Wishing Well" or "Cards & Wishes".

Best for: Budget weddings, casual birthday parties, last-minute setup

Pro tip: Reinforce the slot edges with tape to prevent tearing. Use double-sided tape for a cleaner finish.

🧳

2. Vintage Suitcase Wishing Well ($30-60)

Trendy and Instagram-worthy. Great for rustic, vintage, or travel-themed weddings.

Materials: Vintage suitcase (from op shops or markets), slot cutter, optional decorations (flowers, travel tags, photos)

Steps: Find a vintage suitcase at Vinnies, Salvos, or Facebook Marketplace ($15-40). Cut a slot in the top (use a craft knife carefully). Add travel-themed decorations like vintage postcards, luggage tags, or a "Honeymoon Fund" sign. Leave suitcase natural or add minimal decorations for authentic vintage look.

Best for: Rustic weddings, travel-themed events, couples saving for a honeymoon

Pro tip: Position suitcase at an angle on your gift table for visual interest. Add old travel stamps or stickers for authenticity.

🪵

3. Wooden Crate Wishing Well ($40-70)

Rustic and sturdy option that doubles as home décor after the event.

Materials: Wooden crate (Bunnings, craft stores), sandpaper, stain or paint, drill, fabric liner, flowers

Steps: Purchase wooden crate from Bunnings ($20-40) or craft stores. Sand rough edges smooth. Stain natural wood or paint to match wedding colors. Drill or cut a slot in the top. Line interior with fabric or hessian. Decorate with flowers, greenery, or rustic signage.

Best for: Rustic barn weddings, outdoor events, country-style celebrations

Pro tip: Attach the slot cover with small hinges for easy access after the event. Reuse the crate as bathroom storage or plant holder.

🧺

4. Decorative Basket Wishing Well ($25-50)

Elegant and simple. Works beautifully for baby showers and garden parties.

Materials: Large woven basket, fabric liner, cardboard insert for slot, ribbon, flowers

Steps: Choose a wide, sturdy basket from Kmart, Target, or homeware stores. Create a cardboard lid with slot cut in center. Line basket with elegant fabric (satin, lace, or linen). Weave ribbon through basket edges. Add fresh or silk flowers around the rim.

Best for: Baby showers, garden weddings, spring events, feminine celebrations

Pro tip: Use the basket later as a nursery storage basket, laundry hamper, or picnic basket.

🎨

5. Custom Decorated Box ($20-80)

Fully personalized option. Create a one-of-a-kind wishing well that matches your exact theme.

Materials: Plain box or chest (Kmart, Spotlight), acrylic paint, stencils, vinyl lettering, decorations matching your theme

Steps: Start with a plain decorative box from Kmart ($15-40) or Spotlight. Paint in your wedding colors. Add personalized details: names, wedding date, monogram. Use vinyl lettering for professional-looking text. Embellish with pearls, rhinestones, lace, or themed decorations.

Best for: Themed weddings, DIY enthusiasts, couples wanting a keepsake

Pro tip: Take your time with painting - multiple thin coats look better than one thick coat. Keep the finished box as a memory box for wedding cards and photos.

⚠️

Important Security Considerations for Traditional Wishing Wells

• Assign a trusted friend or family member to watch the wishing well throughout the event
• Consider adding a small lock or secure closure mechanism
• Collect envelopes periodically during the event and store in a secure location
• For large weddings, consider hiring security or using a hotel safe
• Take the wishing well home immediately after the event - don't leave it overnight at the venue

Or Skip the DIY Hassle Entirely

Save time, money, and stress with PocketWell's free digital wishing well. No crafting required, no security concerns, and perfect for interstate guests. Setup takes just 2 minutes.

Create Free Digital Wishing Well

Buying Guide

Where to Buy Wishing Well Boxes in Australia

If DIY isn't for you, these Australian retailers offer ready-made wishing well boxes and rental options.

Kmart

Budget-Friendly Option

$25-50

Basic decorative boxes and storage containers perfect for converting into wishing wells. Great for DIY decoration.

Best for: Budget weddings, casual events

Pros: Very affordable, widely available, easy returns

Cons: Limited wedding-specific designs, requires decoration

Available at all Kmart stores nationwide

Target

Mid-Range Selection

$30-60

Better quality decorative boxes and occasional wedding-specific items. More design variety than Kmart.

Best for: Mid-budget events, better quality materials

Pros: Better quality, more elegant designs, seasonal wedding sections

Cons: Limited stock, prices vary by season

Check online first - stock varies by location

Spotlight

Craft & Wedding Specialist

$40-80

Dedicated wedding section with decorative boxes, DIY supplies, and embellishments. Best for crafters.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts, themed weddings, custom decoration

Pros: Wedding-specific items, craft supplies available, helpful staff

Cons: Higher prices, can be overwhelming with choices

Join Spotlight VIP for regular 20-40% off sales

Etsy Australia

Handmade & Personalized

$80-150

Unique, handmade wishing wells from Australian artisans. Fully customizable with names, dates, and themes.

Best for: Unique designs, personalized items, premium weddings

Pros: One-of-a-kind, personalized, support small businesses

Cons: Expensive, longer lead times (2-4 weeks), shipping costs

Order 6-8 weeks before your event for customization

Wedding Rental Companies

Temporary Solution

$50-100/day

Rent elegant wishing wells as part of wedding décor packages. Returned after the event.

Best for: One-time events, premium designs, minimalists

Pros: No storage after, professional quality, matches venue décor

Cons: Rental fees add up, must return promptly, limited personalization

Common in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane - check local wedding suppliers

Facebook Marketplace / Gumtree

Second-Hand Bargains

$15-50

Pre-loved wishing wells from past weddings. Often beautifully decorated and barely used.

Best for: Budget brides, eco-conscious couples, DIY re-decorators

Pros: Cheapest option, sustainable choice, can re-sell after

Cons: Limited choice, must pick up locally, may need cleaning/repairs

Search "wishing well" or "wedding card box" in your local area

Retailer	Price Range	Quality	Customization	Availability
Kmart	$25-50	Basic	DIY Required	✓ Nationwide
Target	$30-60	Good	Limited	✓ Nationwide
Spotlight	$40-80	Good	DIY Options	✓ Major Cities
Etsy Australia	$80-150	Premium	✓ Full	✓ Online
Rental Companies	$50-100/day	Premium	None	Limited
Second-Hand	$15-50	Variable	Can Modify	Hit or Miss

Why Pay $25-150 for a Box?

Traditional wishing wells require purchasing or renting a box, decorating it, securing it at your venue, manually counting cash, and storing it afterwards. Plus, interstate and overseas guests can't participate.

PocketWell's digital wishing well is 100% free for hosts, works for guests anywhere in the world, requires no storage, and transfers money directly to your bank account. Setup takes 2 minutes.

Create Free Digital Wishing Well

Etiquette Guide

Wishing Well Etiquette in Australia

How to request cash gifts politely and what guests should know about contributing.

For Hosts: How to Ask Politely

Australian etiquette favors subtle, gracious wording rather than direct requests. Here are accepted ways to mention your wishing well:

Formal Wedding Wording:

✓ "Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift of all. However, should you wish to bless us with a gift, a wishing well will be available on the day."

✓ "We are blessed to have all we need for our home. If you wish to give a gift, a contribution toward our future would be warmly appreciated."

✓ "We have been living together for some time and have everything we need. In lieu of traditional gifts, a wishing well will be available for those who wish to contribute."

Casual Wedding Wording:

✓ "We're lucky to have each other - that's gift enough! But if you'd like to contribute, we've set up a wishing well."

✓ "No gifts necessary - just your good vibes and dance moves! But if you insist, there's a wishing well for our honeymoon fund."

✓ "We'd love you to celebrate with us - that's all we need! If you'd like to give something, a wishing well will be available."

Honeymoon Fund Specific:

✓ "We're saving for our dream honeymoon in [destination]. If you'd like to help make our adventure special, a contribution to our travel fund would mean the world."

✓ "Instead of a traditional registry, we've set up a honeymoon wishing well to help us explore [region/country] together."

✓ "We're planning the trip of a lifetime! Rather than traditional gifts, we'd be grateful for contributions toward our honeymoon adventures."

Baby Shower Wording:

✓ "Your love and support mean everything as we prepare for our little one. If you wish to contribute, a wishing well will help us with baby essentials."

✓ "We have the big items covered, but if you'd like to help, contributions toward nappies, formula, and baby necessities would be wonderful."

✓ "Please, no gifts necessary - your presence is enough! For those who insist, a wishing well will be available to help with baby expenses."

Milestone Birthday Wording:

✓ "Turning [age] means I have everything I need! If you'd like to celebrate with a gift, contributions toward [goal/charity] would be appreciated."

✓ "No presents please - just your company! But if you insist, I'm saving for [trip/item/goal] and a wishing well will be available."

✓ "At [age], I'm grateful for experiences over things. If you wish to contribute, help me fund my next adventure!"

Funny/Lighthearted Wording:

✓ "We don't need another toaster! But we'd love help funding our honeymoon cocktails."

✓ "Your presence > presents. But if you're feeling generous, our wishing well accepts contributions (and good marriage advice)."

✓ "We promise not to spend it all on [inside joke]. Wishing well donations gratefully accepted!"

House/First Home Fund:

✓ "We're saving for our first home together. If you'd like to help us take this next step, contributions to our house fund would be deeply appreciated."

✓ "Instead of traditional gifts, we're building our future home. Help us lay the foundation with a contribution to our house deposit fund."

Where to Include Wishing Well Wording:

✓ Wedding website or invitation details card (NOT main invitation)
✓ Word-of-mouth through family and bridal party
✓ Social media event page description
✓ RSVP card or digital RSVP form
✗ Never on the main wedding invitation - considered poor etiquette

For Guests: How Much to Give

The amount varies based on your relationship, the event type, and regional customs. Here are Australian averages for 2026:

Weddings

• Close family: $200-500
• Extended family: $100-200
• Friends: $100-150
• Coworkers: $50-100

Birthdays

• Milestone (21st, 30th, 50th): $50-150
• Regular birthday: $30-80
• Children's party: $20-50

Baby Showers

• Close family: $100-200
• Friends: $50-100
• Coworkers: $30-50

Other Events

• Engagement: $50-150
• Retirement: $30-100
• Housewarming: $50-100

Note: These are guidelines only. Give what feels comfortable for your budget and relationship.

Why Choose Digital

Modern Wishing Well Platform for Australian Celebrations

PocketWell combines the tradition of wishing wells with modern technology. Trusted by 10,000+ Australian families nationwide.

100% Free for Hosts

No setup fees, no monthly subscriptions, no hidden costs. Hosts keep 100% of every gift received.

Instant Bank Payouts

Weekly automatic transfers to your Australian bank account. Most payouts arrive within 1-2 business days.

QR Code Sharing

Generate elegant QR codes for invitations, table cards, or digital sharing. Works on any smartphone.

Bank-Level Security

Personal Messages

Guests can include heartfelt messages with their monetary gifts, making each contribution meaningful.

Mobile Optimized

Beautiful, responsive design that works perfectly on phones, tablets, and desktops. No app required.

New to wishing wells?Read our complete Australian guide →

Process

How It Works

Creating your wishing well is simple and takes just minutes.

1. Personalise Your Event Page

Choose a design, add your story, and personalise your wishing well in minutes.

2. Share Your Link or QR

Share digitally or print elegant QR codes for your invitations.

3. Get Gifted Instantly

Receive gifts directly with card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

Trusted by Australian Families

PocketWell uses industry-leading security powered by Stripe, the same payment processor trusted by millions of businesses worldwide. All payments are encrypted, PCI DSS compliant, and your bank details are never stored on our servers. PocketWell is completely free for hosts, with transparent fees shown to guests before payment.

Browse by Location

Wishing Wells by Australian City & Event Type

Find tailored guides for creating wishing wells in major Australian cities. Whether you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or beyond, we've got you covered.

Wedding Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Wedding wishing well guide for that location.

Honeymoon Fund Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Honeymoon Fund wishing well guide for that location.

Engagement Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Engagement wishing well guide for that location.

Birthday Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Birthday wishing well guide for that location.

Baby Shower Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Baby Shower wishing well guide for that location.

Gender Reveal Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Gender Reveal wishing well guide for that location.

Teacher Gift Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Teacher Gift wishing well guide for that location.

Coach Gift Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Coach Gift wishing well guide for that location.

Maternity Leave Gift Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Maternity Leave Gift wishing well guide for that location.

Graduation Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Graduation wishing well guide for that location.

Housewarming Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Housewarming wishing well guide for that location.

Religious Celebration Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Religious Celebration wishing well guide for that location.

Cultural Milestone Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Cultural Milestone wishing well guide for that location.

Retirement Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Retirement wishing well guide for that location.

Group Gifting Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Group Gifting wishing well guide for that location.

Holiday & Seasonal Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Holiday & Seasonal wishing well guide for that location.

Other Events Wishing Well

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast Canberra

Select a city to view the Other Events wishing well guide for that location.

Can't find your city or event type? Browse all wishing well options

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about PocketWell.

Wishing Wells

Common questions about wishing wells

What is a wishing well wedding in Australia?

A wishing well wedding is an Australian tradition where guests contribute monetary gifts instead of physical gifts at wedding receptions. Traditional wishing wells use decorated boxes for cash, while modern digital platforms allow guests to contribute securely online from anywhere.

What is a wishing well box?

A wishing well box is a decorated container placed at events where guests deposit cash or cheque envelopes as gifts. Common options include cardboard boxes ($10-20), vintage suitcases ($30-60), wooden crates ($40-70), or decorative baskets ($25-50). Available at Kmart, Target, Spotlight, and Etsy Australia.

Where can I buy a wishing well box in Australia?

Wishing well boxes are available at Kmart ($25-50), Target ($30-60), Spotlight ($40-80), Etsy Australia ($80-150), and wedding rental companies ($50-100/day). You can also find second-hand options on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree for $15-50.

How do I make a DIY wishing well box?

Choose a container (cardboard box, vintage suitcase, wooden crate, or basket), cut a slot in the top (5-10cm), decorate with wrapping paper, fabric, ribbon, and flowers, add signage, and secure at your venue. DIY wishing wells cost $10-80 depending on materials.

How do I politely ask for a wishing well?

Use subtle wording: 'Your presence is the greatest gift, but if you wish to contribute, a wishing well will be available' or 'We're blessed with everything we need. If you'd like to give a gift, a contribution toward our honeymoon would be appreciated.' Include on wedding website or details card, never on main invitation.

How much should I give at a wishing well wedding in Australia?

Australian averages (2026): Close family $200-500, extended family $100-200, friends $100-150, coworkers $50-100. For birthdays: milestone birthdays $50-150, regular birthdays $30-80. Baby showers: close family $100-200, friends $50-100, coworkers $30-50.

Should I use a traditional wishing well box or digital platform?

Traditional boxes ($20-150) work for venue-only guests but require cash handling and security. Digital platforms are free for hosts, work globally, offer instant payouts, automatic tracking, and suit interstate/overseas guests. 75% of Australian couples now prefer digital for convenience and security.

Where did the wishing well tradition come from?

Wishing wells originated from ancient European and Celtic customs of throwing coins into natural wells and springs to please water spirits and receive wishes. In Australia, the tradition became popular at weddings in the 1970s as couples moved away from traditional registries, evolving from physical boxes to modern digital platforms.

Are traditional wishing well boxes secure?

Traditional boxes pose security risks - assign a trusted person to monitor them, add a lock, collect envelopes periodically, or use venue safe. Never leave boxes unattended overnight. Digital wishing wells eliminate these risks with bank-level encryption and instant transfers to your account.

Can I use both traditional and digital wishing wells?

Yes! Many Australian couples offer both options: a decorative box at the venue for traditional guests who prefer cash, and a digital wishing well (like PocketWell) for interstate/overseas guests or those who prefer cards and digital payments. This ensures all guests can contribute comfortably.

About Wishing Wells

Learn about online wishing wells and how they work

What is an online wishing well?

An online wishing well (also called a digital wishing well or virtual wishing well) is a modern platform where friends and family can contribute monetary gifts for celebrations like weddings, birthdays, and baby showers. It's a safe and secure alternative to traditional wedding registry and physical gifts.

What is a wishing well wedding in Australia?

A wishing well wedding is an Australian tradition where guests contribute monetary gifts instead of physical gifts at wedding receptions. Online wishing wells modernize this tradition, making it easier for friends and family to contribute safely and securely through digital platforms.

How does a virtual wishing well work?

Create your free wishing well, share via QR code or link, and friends and family contribute monetary gifts using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or cards. All contributions are safe and secure with instant payouts to your Australian bank account.

Can I use a digital wishing well instead of a traditional wedding registry?

Yes! Many Australian couples choose online wishing wells over traditional wedding registry options because they prefer monetary gifts to physical gifts. It's more practical for couples who already have household items or are saving for specific goals.

What's the difference between online wishing well and traditional wedding registry?

Online wishing wells collect monetary gifts that go directly to your bank account, while traditional wedding registries track physical gifts from stores. Digital wishing wells are more flexible - perfect for honeymoon funds, house deposits, or any goal. No managing physical gifts at your wedding reception.

How do digital wishing wells work for Australian weddings?

Digital wishing wells like PocketWell allow Australian couples to collect monetary wedding gifts online through a personalised event page. Guests can contribute securely from anywhere in Australia, making it a modern alternative to traditional wishing wells.

How do online wishing wells work in Australia?

Online wishing wells in Australia allow guests to contribute cash gifts via QR codes or direct links. Contributions are processed securely through Australian banks and transferred instantly to your account with no fees for hosts. Perfect for weddings, birthdays, and celebrations.

Getting Started

Everything you need to begin using PocketWell

What is PocketWell?

PocketWell is a simple, secure platform that lets you create a personalised event page for weddings, birthdays, baby showers, and more. Guests can send monetary gifts and messages directly through your page no physical gifts, no hassle.

How does PocketWell work?

You create a free event page, share your unique link with guests, and start receiving monetary gifts. Guests contribute securely using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or their debit or credit card. Gifts appear in your dashboard, and payouts are automatically sent to your bank account on a weekly schedule.

Can I create multiple event pages on PocketWell?

Yes, you can create multiple event pages under one account for different occasions. Each event page has its own unique link and can be fully customised to suit your celebration.

Can I use PocketWell for baby showers and birthdays?

Yes. PocketWell is perfect for baby showers, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, and any celebration. You can create multiple event pages, each tailored to a different occasion.

Is PocketWell available throughout Australia?

Yes! PocketWell serves all of Australia. Whether your event is in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, or anywhere else, guests can contribute securely from any location around the world.

Are digital gift collections popular with Australian guests?

Absolutely! Australian guests love the convenience of contributing via their phones using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or card payments. Digital wishing wells are especially popular for interstate guests and during times when contactless options are preferred.

Pricing & Fees

Transparent pricing with no hidden costs

How much does it cost to use PocketWell?

It's completely free for hosts, with no setup fees, no monthly subscriptions, and no hidden costs. When guests send gifts, they pay a small 3.5% service fee plus standard payment processing fees. Hosts receive 100% of every gift, and all fees are clearly shown to guests before payment.

Why does PocketWell charge a service fee?

The service fee helps cover the cost of running PocketWell, including secure payment infrastructure, hosting, customer support, and ongoing platform improvements. This allows us to keep the service free for hosts.

Are there any hidden fees?

No. All fees are displayed transparently to guests before payment is completed. Hosts can also view a clear fee breakdown in their dashboard, with no unexpected charges.

What's the difference between PocketWell and other online wishing wells?

PocketWell stands out by offering no fees for hosts, secure Stripe-powered payments, weekly Tuesday payouts, and elegant, customisable event pages. Hosts keep 100% of gifts received, while guests pay a small 3.5% service fee.

Payments & Payouts

How you receive your gifts and funds

Do I need to link a bank account?

You don't need to link a bank account to create or share an event page. When you're ready to receive payouts, you'll complete a quick, guided setup powered by Stripe to securely connect your bank account.

How do payouts work?

Payouts are automatic and sent weekly on Tuesdays. Once your bank account is connected through Stripe, available funds are transferred directly to your nominated bank account. Most transfers arrive within 1–2 business days, depending on your bank.

Why does my balance say 'Available to pay out soon'?

This means Stripe is still processing and clearing recent payments. Once the processing period is complete, the funds move to 'Available' and will be included in the next scheduled Tuesday payout.

How long does it take to receive my payout?

Payouts are sent weekly on Tuesdays. After Stripe sends the payout, it typically arrives in your bank account within 1–2 business days, depending on your bank. Your first payout may take longer (up to 5–7 business days) while Stripe completes a one-time account verification.

Does PocketWell hold my money?

No. PocketWell does not hold or store your funds. Payments are processed by Stripe, and payouts are sent to your bank account on the weekly Tuesday payout schedule once funds are available.

Who handles payments and payouts?

All payments and payouts are handled securely by Stripe, a global payment platform trusted by millions of businesses. PocketWell never stores or has access to your bank details.

What happens if I change my bank account details?

You can update your bank account details at any time in your dashboard. You'll be guided through a secure Stripe update process so future payouts are sent to your new nominated bank account.

Security & Setup

Safe and secure platform information

Is PocketWell safe to use?

Yes. PocketWell uses industry-standard security practices, with all payments encrypted and processed securely through Stripe. Your personal and financial information is protected at all times.

Are virtual wishing wells safe and secure?

Extremely secure. Online wishing wells use bank-grade encryption and comply with Australian financial regulations. All monetary gifts from friends and family are processed through secure payment gateways with fraud protection included.

How secure are online gift collections in Australia?

Extremely secure. We use bank-grade encryption and comply with Australian financial regulations including PCI DSS standards. All transactions are processed through secure payment gateways used by major Australian banks.

Is the setup complicated?

No. The setup is guided step by step and usually takes only a few minutes. Stripe handles the process securely, and you only need to complete it once.

Is the setup secure?

Yes. The setup is powered by Stripe, a leading global payment processor that handles security and compliance. Your bank details are never stored on our servers.

Features & Support

Additional features and assistance

Can guests leave messages with their gifts?

Yes. Guests can include personal messages with their monetary gifts, making each contribution more meaningful and memorable for the host.

Can I export the data of gifts received?

Yes, you can download a detailed report of all gifts and messages from your event dashboard, making it easy to keep records or say thank you to guests.

Ready to Create Your Free Wishing Well?

Join 10,000+ Australian families using PocketWell's digital wishing well platform. Free forever for hosts, instant payouts, and bank-level security. Setup takes just 2 minutes.

Create Your Wishing Well Now See How It Works

No credit card required • 100% free for hosts • 2-minute setup