“There is a clear need for an improved regulatory system for the non-profit sector that enables it to work more effectively and transparently in our community,” said Senator Stephens, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector. Senator Stephens was speaking in response to today’s tabling of the report from the Senate Standing Committee on Economics inquiry into disclosure regimes for charities and not-for-profit organisations.
The report found that non-profit organisations in Australia are labouring under a heavy burden of inconsistent and inappropriate regulation and that there is a pressing need for improved regulation and increased transparency.
The Committee has recommended comprehensive changes to the non-profit regulatory environment including:
- Greater consistency in legislation governing non-profit organisations
- A single body to register and regulate non-profit organisations
- National fundraising legislation
- Appointment of a Minister for the Third Sector to manage issues arising for non-profit organisations
- A Taskforce to implement reform of the non-profit operating environment
“The Senate Inquiry has laid bare the complexities of regulation with which non-profit organisations currently have to contend,” Dr Stephens said.
“The Rudd Government affirms the vital role that non-profit organisations play in meeting the needs of those suffering disadvantage in our communities. I welcome the Committee’s work in identifying areas where we can work with the sector to reduce unnecessary red tape and strengthen sector organisations.
“We will also continue our discussions with the sector on a national compact. This will be an historic national agreement that will outline how we will work together to improve and strengthen our relationship, now and into the future” Senator Stephens said.
Copies of the report can be downloaded from http://www.aph.gov.au/Senate/committee/economics_ctte/charities_08/report/index.htm