Many not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) are once again struggling with the new government requirement for them to lodge a “not for profit” statement by the end of March.
Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey raised this issue last year both in the Parliament and the party-room after contacts from agitated and annoyed community groups.
“Eventually the Government deferred implementation by six months, but nothing has changed and as the new compliance date approaches now the organisations are once again raising the issue,” he said.
“Shadow Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury Senator Dean Smith picked up the battle in the Senate and after a number of estimates questions was able to get a short inquiry established. The inquiry recommended lifting the thresholds to exempt small local organisations from the process.
“Also that the implementation be further deferred, the ATO and ACNC work together to lessen the impact so community organisations can get on with their business. The Government has sat on this advice and done nothing.
“A group of us met with the ATO in Canberra – we were told this form would take 10-15 minutes to fill out. I viewed the tutorial, that took half an hour.
“The guidance publication is three pages long and the elected official will have to go on their personal MyGov site and through there access the Business Portal to download the forms.
“Of course not everyone has a MyGov site, but we were told they should not be concerned, that they can apply online, however to do that, the club official will have to download “myID” a two factor identification app. Only then can they begin to fill out the forms which at best can be described as vague and difficult.
“It is ridiculous attack on footy clubs, motorcycle clubs, sewing societies, dance groups, community associations and small charities have looked after regional communities for decades and now are facing onerous tax requirements that in many cases will stretch their volunteers beyond their capabilities.
“It is an ample demonstration that Labor members of Parliament come from the political class, and have not been grass-roots community members.
“The reporting requirements to the tax office are a real issue for small volunteer-run organisations and non-compliance threatens their future and the Coalition remains committed to building strong and sustainable communities – supporting our community groups and charities and strengthening them for the future.”
Rowan Ramsey MP
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith 08 8633 1744
Feb 11 2025
