Understanding charities and supporting them to meet their obligations to the ACNC is fundamental to the way we operate.
One way we do this is by actively engaging with the charity sector. Throughout the year, we hold forums and discussions with different groups to share updates on our work and deepen our understanding of the environments in which charities operate. We get out and about too, most recently to Darwin. There, Cate Bennett, our Assistant Commissioner - General Counsel and Regulatory Services, joined the Northern Territory Chapter of the National Regulators Community of Practice to discuss how regulators can work better with the communities they serve.
Recently, we held a forum with charities that operate overseas. Our data shows around 6% of Australia’s registered charities have overseas operations. Some deliver services directly on the ground, some partner with overseas organisations, some deploy staff or volunteers and others advocate on issues affecting people in other countries.
At a time of heightened global uncertainty and conflict, they continue to make significant contributions, providing vital programs to improve outcomes for people around the world ─ between them, they operate in nearly 300 different countries and regions.
I would like to thank those who attended the forum, particularly the charities who shared experiences so openly and thoughtfully. Topics covered included working with international partners, meeting financial management and compliance obligations, and identifying and managing risks. Key agencies, including the Australian Federal Police, Department of Home Affairs, AUSTRAC and others provided important insights and perspectives. We heard about the complexities they face to ensure robust governance of their work.
Last week we held a meeting of our Charity Forum, which brings together representatives from charities and professional advisers. A varied discussion was had ─ examples were shared about the impact of the rise in fuel costs (for volunteers, on charity expenses and by increasing demand for charity services), through to how various regulatory overlaps and irritants impact (often) volunteer boards. We provided updates from across all our teams and shared several new resources, designed to support charities with good governance practices, particularly in the areas of financial management and safeguarding. The meeting notes from these meetings will be on our website shortly, and, again, I am thankful for the time given to support our work.
These new resources are here to help you – no matter what size charity you are involved in. They step you through how to review policies and processes, identify and manage risks and meet obligations. They now sit alongside our suite of other free online resources, which cover topics such as managing conflicts of interest, related party transactions, record-keeping and maintaining eligibility for registration.
Following requests for high-level information on this topic, we have just published new guidance to support charities that are considering investing funds for a financial return. The guidance outlines key considerations, including decision-making and record-keeping, managing risk and having appropriate procedures in place. It also explains common investment terms, discusses the types of investments charities may consider and encourages charities to seek professional financial advice to meet their circumstances.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge this is a significant time of year. Our Muslim friends and colleagues recently observed Ramadan, while others are marking Easter or Passover. These sacred occasions are centred on shared themes of compassion, generosity and reflection.
Faith-based charities are an integral part of Australia’s charity sector. Our latest Australian Charities Report shows more than 20% of registered charities conduct ‘religion and faith-based spiritual’ activities, such as providing food and shelter and celebratory meals. These charities drive generosity and care for others in powerful ways.
Your work makes a real difference. Please continue to pursue your purpose with confidence, knowing that the ACNC is here to support you in that work.
Warm regards,
Sue Woodward AM