Paula Huston, aged 76, passed away on 14 November 2025.
Paula Huston, aged 76, passed away in Melbourne on Friday 14 November, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer in recent years. A lifelong lover of classical music and live performance, she devoted much of her life to the arts.
Her wealth was entirely self-made, after first pursuing a career as a school teacher following a university scholarship of her own. In the final chapter of her life, Paula worked with ECU to formalise a philanthropic commitment that included the bequest of her entire estate, valued at several million dollars. This commitment followed a separate pledge she made during her lifetime to provide one hundred thousand dollars annually to support WAAPA student scholarships.
Paula's intention was to ensure that future generations of performers could pursue their careers with fewer barriers, and to share her story in the hope that others may be inspired to consider the impact of their own philanthropy.
Paula Huston bequeathed her entire estate, worth several million dollars.
WAAPA memories that shaped a future
Paula lived in Mount Lawley for more than twenty years and often walked to attend WAAPA performances with friends. She delighted in watching students develop into confident, expressive performers, and believed deeply in the importance of supporting emerging talent within Australia.
ECU Vice-Chancellor Professor Clare Pollock said Paula's bequest reflects a profound commitment to education and the arts.
"Paula gave so generously with purpose and a clear sense of what she hoped to achieve. She understood how the arts strengthen communities, and she believed in the promise of aspiring performers.
"Her legacy will support generations of WAAPA students whose work will enrich communities here and around the world. We are so honoured to carry her vision forward."
WAAPA Executive Dean Professor David Shirley said Paula's gift reflects an understanding of what it truly takes for performers to build a life in the arts.
"Careers in the performing arts are demanding, and at times daunting, even for the most gifted students, so support like Paula's can truly make the difference between a student stepping back or stepping forward into their potential," he said.
"This extraordinary bequest will allow aspiring performers to devote themselves to their craft with confidence, knowing someone believed in their future. Paula's generosity reflects a remarkable faith in the next generation, and her legacy will be carried in the lives and achievements of WAAPA students for decades."
A final message in her own words
In September, ECU filmed a conversation with Paula about her life, her love of the arts and her hopes for WAAPA's future. Despite her illness, she was articulate, spirited and fiercely passionate about ensuring aspiring performers had the opportunities they deserved.
ECU is honoured to share Paula Huston's story as WAAPA prepares to open the doors to its new home at ECU City, opening in semester one 2026. It's here that Paula's belief in the transformative power of the arts will continue through the students who benefit from her generosity.
