Listen to this article:
With state elections planned in South Australia this month, and in Victoria at the end of the year, it is vital to understand rules around charity advocacy.
A charity can advocate for or against an issue, for example a change to the law or a policy, if that aligns with its charitable purpose. However, they cannot promote or oppose a political party or candidate.
Through advocacy, charities can make important contributions to national and local conversations.
Charities should have clear procedures, checks and processes for approval of material, comments or actions. This should always be the case, but especially around election times.
Our guidance on charity advocacy and charities, elections and political advocacy explains the rules in detail.