As the peak body for philanthropy we actively undertake policy advocacy to support more and better giving in Australia and represent our members on important sector issues. We work closely with Federal and State Governments to develop their understanding of the philanthropic sector, and to promote the development of effective policy frameworks to grow and support giving.
Here are monthly advocacy updates from our team to educate and inform our members and the broader community with resources and further information.
7 April 2022: On 7 April 2022, the Shadow Assistant Minister for Treasury and Charity, the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP, announced Labor’s commitment to work with the philanthropic, for-purpose and business sectors to develop a strategy for philanthropy, with the aim of doubling giving in Australia by 2030. This announcement picked up the central element of the Philanthropy Australia Election Statement, released in December 2021.
29 March 2022 - Assistant Treasurer, the Hon Michael Sukkar MP, announces historic community foundations reform in the Federal Budget
In the 2022-23 Federal Budget, the Government announced historic reforms to support community foundations. This picked up a key element of the Philanthropy Australia Election Statement, released in December 2021.
25 February 2022: New Public Ancillary Fund Guidelines Come Into Effect
The new guidelines do not introduce any new regulatory requirements, with concerning changes in the draft guidelines removed. Philanthropy Australia appreciates the responsiveness of Assistant Treasurer, his advisers and the Treasury to our submission and direct representations.
December 2021: Philanthropy Australia releases 2022 Election Statement
In December 2021, Philanthropy Australia released its Election Statement which calls on all political parties and candidates to commit to a grand national initiative – working with Philanthropy Australia and the philanthropic, not-for-profit and business sectors on a policy development process aimed at doubling philanthropic giving by 2030. To give the process momentum, Philanthropy Australia recommended reforms to provide Item 1 DGR status for Community Foundations.
Philanthropy Australia’s Election Statement is available here.
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