The Assistant Treasurer, Senator the Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO, today declared the October 2013 New South Wales bushfires a disaster for the purposes of establishing Australian disaster relief funds.
“I am saddened by the widespread devastation, and by news of the death of a Central Coast man as a result of these bushfires,” said Senator Sinodinos.
“I know that Australians from all around the country will want to pitch in to help out those who have been affected by these events.”
“This declaration will allow new funds and qualifying existing funds to help those people in communities affected by the bushfires to receive tax deductible donations.”
While funds still need to apply for formal endorsement, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and the Australian Taxation Office have jointly established a fast track process for this purpose.
Donations to Australian disaster relief funds, established to provide relief in the aftermath of the bushfires, will be tax deductible for a period of two years from the date of this declaration.
These bushfires, which occurred from 17 October 2013, have caused devastation to communities in New South Wales, and have resulted in widespread damage to property and the environment.
Further information on establishing an Australian disaster relief fund is available on the Australian Taxation Office website.