The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) has updated the online application form for registering as a charity to reflect new legislation. Parliament passed the new Charities Act in June 2013 and it came into effect on 1 January 2014. It sets out the meaning of “charity” for all Commonwealth purposes and gives it a statutory definition ie one that is recognised by law.
The ACNC said the law on charities and native title is also clarified, and the idea that modern organisations may advance causes through education, research and awareness-raising and prevention is recognised. In addition, the Act protects charities’ right to advocate for policy and lobby on behalf of the groups they benefit.
The ACNC has been working to update the online application form available to organisations wishing to register as charities, and it is now available.
Source: ACNC release, 10 January 2014
[LTN 6, 10/1/14]