In the ever-evolving landscape of regulatory reforms, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) has ushered in significant changes in the fundraising sector throughout 2023. We take a look back at the changes you may have missed during the year.
1. National Fundraising Red Tape Reform Receives ACNC Applause
On 21 February 2023, the ACNC welcomed the announcement of nationally consistent fundraising principles by Australian, state, and territory treasurers. This milestone reform streamlines requirements for charitable fundraiser conduct across regions, offering charities and donors a clear roadmap for appropriate conduct. Each state and territory will unveil individual plans outlining the implementation of these principles.
ACNC Commissioner Sue Woodward AM underscored the impact of this reform on the charity sector, highlighting the modernization of fundraising regulations to align with digital practices. With increased emphasis on online and digital fundraising methods, these reforms are a response to the changing landscape of fundraising practices.
2. 16 Principles for Charitable Fundraising Activities
As part of the reform package, the Australian Government introduced a set of 16 principles that govern fundraising activities by charitable organizations. These principles ensure transparency, ethical conduct, and donor protection. Among the key principles are requirements for clear communication of fundraising purposes, proper identification of fundraisers, written records of fundraising activities, and protection against undue pressure on potential donors. Charities must also establish a complaints process and adhere to privacy regulations.
The 16 principles announced by the Australian Government can be found here: ACNC welcomes the announcement of national fundraising red tape reform | ACNC
3. Queensland Steps Up for Red Tape Reduction
Building upon the momentum of these reforms, Queensland took a practical step in cutting red tape for registered charities. Charities registered with the ACNC and conducting fundraising in Queensland are now only required to report fundraising information in their Annual Information Statement. This information will be shared between the ACNC and Queensland's Office of Fair Trading, eliminating duplicated reporting efforts for charities.
Incorporated associations in Queensland that are also registered charities will similarly benefit, as their reporting obligations to the Queensland regulator will be satisfied by reporting once to the ACNC.
4. Streamlined Process for Queensland Fundraising
Continuing the trend of red tape reduction, Queensland made further strides in facilitating fundraising endeavours. As of 1 May 2023, charities intending to fundraise in Queensland no longer need to register separately with the QLD Office of Fair Trading. Instead, they can simply notify the office by submitting a Charity ACNC Registration Notification form. This streamlined process reduces administrative burdens for charities in Queensland and those that fundraise across state borders.
5. ACNC's Ongoing Commitment to Red Tape Reduction
The reforms above are a positive sign for the sector and a substantial step forward in alleviating regulatory burdens on charities. All stakeholders including charities and their donors stand to benefit from these changes, as the sector moves towards a more transparent, efficient, and digitally-aligned fundraising environment.
For more information on the ACNC’s ongoing red tape reduction see here: Red tape reduction | ACNC or get in contact with your Prosperity Adviser.