Assistant Treasurer Bill Shorten and Minister for Social Inclusion Tanya Plibersek today released a consultation paper on the design of a new national regulator for the not-for-profit sector.
Mr Shorten said the paper seeks the views of the stakeholders to determine the precise role, functions, feasibility and design options for a "one-stop shop" regulator.
"The consultation paper marks the beginning of a reform process that will deliver smarter regulation, reduce red-tape and improve the transparency and accountability of the sector."
"Without the work of Australia's 600,000 not-for-profits and community organisations, many of our most disadvantaged and vulnerable citizens would not be able to access the vital services they require."
Mr Shorten said commissioning Treasury to undertake a scoping study for a national not-for-profit regulator delivered on an election commitment to strengthen the sector.
Treasury will use the consultation paper to seek the views of stakeholders on the goals of national regulation, the scope of national regulation, and the functions and form of a national regulator.
Ms Plibersek said the current regulatory framework was complex and placed a significant compliance burden on the sector, which was growing in size and importance.
"We want to make it easier for not-for-profits to do what they do best – help people."
"A new national regulator should streamline reporting requirements, reduce compliance costs and provide certainty to not-for-profits about their rights and responsibilities."
Submissions in response to the paper close on February 25, 2011. The consultation paper is available on the Treasury website at www.treasury.gov.au