15 December 2020
The Australian Council of Social Service says that the agreement signed by federal, state and territory treasurers to reform charitable fundraising regulation and create a cross-border registration scheme is a welcome first step towards the ultimate goal of comprehensive reform of Australia’s outdated fundraising regulations.
ACOSS CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie said:
“ACOSS welcomes this first step towards reforming Australia’s outdated and inconsistent fundraising laws. This reform will ensure that charities that fundraise nationally do not have to register in multiple jurisdictions.
“Substantial reform to fundraising regulation has been recommended by multiple reviews, inquiries and a royal commission. Despite this welcome proposal, there is still significant work to do to comprehensively reform the hodgepodge of fundraising laws that apply to charities across Australia.
“We also welcome the fact that fundraising reform remains on the agenda for the National Emergency Management Ministers Meeting stemming from the National Federation Reform Council. We look forward to working with these ministers to achieve genuine, comprehensive reform of the current fundraising laws.
“It’s crucial community sector charities are supported in their important work. Community sector services are vital at all times but especially in crisis. The community service sector provides support to people when they need it most, when they’re facing homelessness, escaping domestic violence or dealing with mental health issues. These services have been crucial in the health and economic crisis.”
