In the early 1990's, Shane Holst, Founder of Altruism Australia, was blessed to have spent extensive and inspiring time with Dr Patch Adams and Dr M Scott Peck. ‘Patch’ and ‘Scotty’ enthusiastically supported his passion for encouraging and promoting the ‘courageous compassion’ in the human spirit, and the Australian Humanitarian Awards were 'born' in 1998.
Founder, Shane Holst sees great truth in the words of the US therapist, John Bradshaw. These words helped and continue to help in the direction and vision of Altruism Australia,

"Anything less than care is abuse."

In 2005, after the ups and downs of establishing a new Foundation and Shane being ‘knocked over’ for 3 years (2001 – 2004) with crippling anxiety, The Australian Humanitarian Foundation became… Altruism Australia. In the same year the Australian Humanitarian Awards re-appeared (be it rather modestly) and a year later a new Awards program was born…  The Turtle Awards - 'Acknowledging Those Who Stick Their Necks Out For The Common Good'. In setting up the ‘Turtles' we wish to acknowledge the inspirational work of the 'Giraffes' in the USA & Dr Colin Riess. They have greatly inspired the creation of the Turtle Awards.

During the following years Altruism Australia formerly began its Corporate Training and Coaching program and re-introduced the Community Building Workshops.