Council to cut red tape for not-for-profit sector

Minister for Social Inclusion, Tanya Plibersek, has announced the composition of the Gillard Labor Government’s Not-for-Profit Sector Reform Council.

“The creation of the council fulfils an important election promise and demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to the not-for-profit sector,” said Ms Plibersek.

“The council will help drive the government’s plans to reform the sector including cutting red tape which will free up resources and assist not-for-profits do what they do best – help people.”

Ms Plibersek said the council will be chaired by Linda Lavarch from the Australian Centre of Philanthropic and Nonprofit Studies and will include a list of eminent figures from the not-for-profit sector.

Membership of the council includes Linda Lavarch, Australian Centre for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies, Ken Baker, National Disability Services, Kasy Chambers, Anglicare, Evelyn O’Loughlin, Volunteering SA and NT, and Frank Quinlan, Catholic Social Services Australia.

Ms Plibersek said the council will examine the scope of a national one-stop shop regulator, provide advice on streamlining tendering and contracting processes for government funded not-for-profits and consider harmonization of Federal, state and territory laws on fundraising.