The Charities Act 2013 adds reconciliation, human rights, culture, the environment and more to the list of purposes that are considered charitable. The new Act recognises that many modern organisations advance causes through education, research and awareness-raising and prevention. It also clarifies the law on charities and native title. In addition, it protects charities’ right to advocate for policy and lobby on behalf of the groups they benefit.
[FJM Note: The ACNC’s Media Release stated that the Charities Act also was due to come into effect on 1 January 2014, but as noted above, Government amendments to the Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2013 that were passed by the House of Reps introducing new provisions to the Bill that would delay the commencement of the new Charities Act by 9 months, from 1 January 2014 to 1 September 2014. That Bill did not pass the Senate before Parliament adjourned for the year and debate on the Bill will resume in the Senate after Parliament resumes on 11 February 2014.]
Source: ACNC media release, 16 December 2013
[LTN 243, 16/12/13]