The peak national and state and territory bodies for Australia’s community welfare sector, today put their full support behind the establishment of a national regulator for the not-for-profit sector, adding that they are hopeful the historic legislation will pass parliament this week.

“The creation of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission is the culmination of a long process and has broad support from the community and social services sector,” said ACOSS CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie.

“It’s true to say there were concerns that the legislation before parliament did not go far enough to ensure red tape is reduced and financial reporting improved. Many of the sector’s concerns have since been taken on board and substantial improvements made. These previous concerns are captured in a report released today by the Australian Institute of Company Directors, which we believe reflects the situation prior to those improvements.

“The COSS network has stated that we would like to see the legislation strengthened even further to ensure the regulatory burden is reduced and the independence of the new body is protected. We continue to work with government, minor parties and independents on the final amendments to the legislation so the ACNC can start on schedule by 1 October. The reality is that there is overwhelming positive sentiment in our sector for the ACNC and its time we got on with it,” Dr Goldie concluded.

Media Contact: Fernando de Freitas 0419 626 155

This statement is supported by:
ACT Council of Social Service
Council of Social Service of NSW
QLD Council of Social Service
NT Council of Social Service
SA Council of Social Service
TAS Council of Social Service
VIC Council of Social Service

ACOSS submission to the Senate Community Affairs Committee and the Corporations and Public Administration Joint Standing Committee reviews of the ACNC Bill and consequential amendments.