A54/2000 29th March 2000
Donors to one of the most important new initiatives aimed at renewing country Australia can now claim deductibility, it was announced today.
Gifts of $2 or more to the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal Public Fund will be deductible for income tax purposes, said the Deputy Prime Minister, John Anderson, and the Assistant Treasurer, Senator Rod Kemp.
The Foundation has been established to raise money for the purpose of providing a viable social and economic future for Australia’s rural and regional communities. Tax deductible gift status will assist the Foundation to attract public support for its activities.
It aims to encourage innovative collaboration between business, community and government in philanthropic endeavours that will boost the economic and social stocks of regional Australia. Its emphasis will be on economic development and job creation.
The Foundation was announced by the Prime Minister, John Howard, during last year’s Regional Australia Summit. It has been kick-started by total Federal Government funding of $14.5 million and a further $1 million from the nationally-renowned Sidney Myer Fund.
Legislation to give effect to the Government’s decision will be introduced as soon as practicable.
Taxpayers should ensure they receive a receipt for their donation. The address for donations is:
The Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal Public Fund
44th Floor
55 Collins Street
MELBOURNE VIC 3000
Media contacts: (Mr Anderson’s office) Paul Chamberlin 02 62777680
(Senator Kemp’s office) Richard Allsop 0419 482497
(Australian Taxation Office) Neil Cossins 02 62162608