Don’t Get Caught Out: Common ACNC Compliance Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
For many small charities in Australia, compliance with regulatory obligations can feel like an overwhelming burden. Between chasing funding, managing volunteers, and delivering community programs, administration and record-keeping can easily slip down the priority list. But failing to comply with ACNC requirements can lead to serious consequences, including loss of registration, reputational damage, and […]
What is an Auspice Agreement?
A Guide for Charities and Not-for-Profits In the not-for-profit world, collaboration is key. Many great ideas for community impact begin with small, unincorporated groups or passionate individuals who may not yet have the legal structure to access grants, insurance, or enter contracts. That’s where auspice agreements come in – a practical way for […]
Must-Have Policies for Every Charity
Charities don’t just change lives—they need policies that protect them. Without the right framework, even the best intentions can fall short. Want to know a charity’s stance on a particular issue? Want to know if a charity has any safety measures if anything happens? That’s where policies come in. Running a charity requires […]
Submit your 2024 Annual Information Statement
The term ‘Annual Information Statement (AIS)’ might conjure images of endless scrolling under the glare of blue light, navigating countless forms and tasks required for regulatory compliance. If you’ve ever operated or supported a business or charity, this scenario may feel all too familiar. You might even view the AIS as just another item […]
Understanding the Key Roles on a Charity Board
A charity board is at the heart of any nonprofit organisation. It provides direction and ensures that the charity achieves its goals while remaining compliant with legal and ethical standards. The board comprises various members, each with specific responsibilities that work together to manage and guide the charity. Let’s take a closer look […]
Key Tips For Charities: Securing PBI Status
A glance in legislation, case law, and beyond. When registering your charity, it is important to be aware of the various different legal issues you may encounter. A common and highly beneficial charity sub-type is a Public Benevolent Institution (PBI), which offers significant tax advantages. However, not every charity qualifies as a […]
Can I Change the Purpose of my Charitable Trust? Housing Choices v Attorney General
Sometimes, an entity can change the purpose of their charitable trust. Housing Choices Australia Limited v Attorney General for the State of Victoria [2024] VSC 107 (Housing Choices) was a case heard in the Victorian Supreme Court that focussed on this exact scenario. Facts Housing Choices Australia Ltd (HCAL) is the current […]
What Can My Charity Do To Get Funding?
‘I want to pursue my charity’s mission, but I don’t have the means to do so. Where can I find funding?’ Once registered with the ACNC and the ATO, a charity is poised to pursue its mission and fulfill its purpose. However, many charities find themselves at a standstill due to one crucial […]
Changes to Income Tax Reporting Requirements for NFPs
A crucial update has emerged in the administration of not-for-profits. To ensure your NFP maintains its income tax-exempt status, read on for essential details. What are the changes? From 1 July 2023, non-charitable NFPs with an active Australian business number (ABN) self-assessing as income tax exempt need to lodge an annual NFP self-review […]
Bill to Introduce New Category of DGR Charities
In recent exciting news, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Support for Small Business and Charities and Other Measures) Bill 2023 introduces a new class of Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) charities. This Bill, introduced in September 2023, has passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate and is now nearing completion and awaiting royal assent. […]