Assistant Treasurer David Bradbury joined Member for Page, Janelle Saffin and local charities to talk about new reforms to support and strengthen the not-for-profit sector and cut red tape.
At a roundtable in Lismore, Mr Bradbury and Ms Saffin met with representatives from local charities about the new Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).
Charities that previously registered with the Australian Taxation Office will now register with the ACNC. This new national regulator will drive reform to reduce red tape, including through a 'charity passport' that charities can use to meet reporting requirements of Australian Government agencies.
"This is about cutting down on red tape for charities and supporting public confidence in the sector," said Mr Bradbury.
"This is something the sector has long been calling for – an independent regulator, with a greater focus on the needs of the sector. The ACNC will be that independent and dedicated regulator."
Ms Saffin said charities needed support to get on with the important work that they do.
"It is about supporting charities in our local communities so they can focus on what they do best," said Ms Saffin. "Charities empower the most vulnerable members of our community and create opportunities for Australians to participate in work, engage in life-long learning, participate more fully in society and live their lives with dignity and respect."
The Gillard Government has also announced that it will prevent gag clauses from being reintroduced into future Commonwealth funding agreements with the NFP sector that would prevent them from speaking out on government policy, something that has seen a resurgence under the Queensland Newman Government.
The establishment of the ACNC will further drive a national approach to NFP regulation, with South Australia already announcing it will make amendments to its incorporated associations and charitable collections legislation to harmonise reporting requirements.
"With the establishment of the ACNC, we want to see all of the States and Territories move towards harmonising the regulatory regime for charities. I call on the New South Wales Government to show their support for hard-working charities and help to cut their red tape burden," said Mr Bradbury.
The ACNC will administer a public information portal, providing useful information to the Australian community about charities and the important work they do.
The ACNC is expected to commence operations in early December. More information can be found at the Treasury website and the ACNC Taskforce website.