30 April 2003

Deductibility of Gifts Supporting Fulbright Awards

Donations to the Australian-American Educational Foundation (Fulbright Commission) will now be deductible for Income Tax purposes, the Minister for Revenue and Assistant Treasurer, Senator Helen Coonan announced today.

The Fulbright Commission was established to promote educational and cultural exchange between Australia and the United States of America in order to enhance mutual understanding and goodwill between the two countries.

The principal activity of the Commission is to administer the Australian-American Fulbright Awards.

Senator Coonan said tax deductible status for gifts of $2.00 or more would help the Commission attract public support for its activities.

"Legislation to give effect to this announcement will be introduced as soon as practicable," Senator Coonan said.

"Taxpayers who support the Fulbright Commission should ensure that they receive a receipt for their donation," Senator Coonan said.