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 […]
U.S. Court Rules in Favor of AFBRI in Dispute with Israeli Academy Over Donations
April 2025 – A U.S. appeals court has sided with the American Foundation for Basic Research in Israel, Inc. (AFBRI) in a legal fight with the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities, deciding that the Academy has no right to claim control over AFBRI’s donations. The Israel Academy, a top research institution established […]
A New Era for Community Foundations
A New Era for Community Foundations: Major Reform Unlocks Exciting Opportunities A groundbreaking reform is reshaping the future of community philanthropy in Australia, paving the way for community foundations to thrive like never before. With the release of the Taxation Administration (Community Charity) Guidelines 2025, a newly established pathway to Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status […]
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 […]
Defining Charitable Trusts: Grain Technology Ltd v Rosewood Research Pty Ltd
Grain Technology Australia Ltd v Rosewood Research Pty Ltd (No 3) [2023] NSWSC 238 is a case that revolves around the management and purpose of assets held by certain companies, specifically whether these assets were held on trust for charitable purposes. Background The case arose due to disputes concerning the affairs of […]
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 […]
Can Charities Engage in Political Advocacy?
The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) provides guidance for charities engaging in campaigning and advocacy activities. These activities are crucial for charities to fulfill their missions, raise awareness, and advocate for social change. The ACNC emphasizes several key principles to ensure that charities engage in these activities effectively and responsibly. When it comes […]