Next step for not for profit reform

The federal government has strengthened its commitment to a genuine partnership with the not for profit sector through legislation to be introduced when Parliament sits again later this month.

UnitingCare Australia welcomed the news yesterday with the organisation’s national director, Lin Hatfield Dodds, stating the Not for Profit Sector Freedom to Advocate Bill would ensure those organisations working at the coalface with some of the most vulnerable people in Australia could contribute to and influence public policy debate without fear of compromising funding arrangements and other measures.

“The federal government’s National Compact, which was announced five years ago, committed to  working in genuine partnership with the not for profit sector,” Ms Hatfield Dodds said.

“The legislation announced yesterday acknowledges the vital role of community sector organisations like UnitingCare – not just in the provision of vital services but also in the development and implementation of measures that determine economic and social policy priorities.

“It recognises the importance of an independent sector and provides the foundation for strong community engagement in policy development,” she said.

According to Ms Hatfield Dodds, gag clauses have been banned in all Commonwealth contracts.

“The Not For Profit Sector Freedom to Bill is a positive move and we call on the States and Territories to implement similar legislation,” she said.

UnitingCare Australia has led strong action to safeguard the ongoing sustainability of the services provided to the most vulnerable people in Australia.

“Reform is a long road and ongoing work will be needed to ensure better relationships across all levels of government – from federal to the States and Territories and to local governments – all of whom have a role to play in the suite of vital services needed to ensure a strong communities,” Ms Hatfield Dodds said.

Joe Zabar, UnitingCare Australia’s director of services, added organisations were historically prevented from engaging in public debate on issues central to their mission and services delivery.

“Tackling the unnecessary red tape associated with government funding arrangements will enable us to divert scarce resources to the people who need them.

“The government’s decision to legislate its commitment to funding its share of the historic equal pay claim for people working in the sector, and including a specific red tape object in the legislation governing the Australian Not For Profit Commission are critical to the viability of the sector,” he said.