Charities and politics
With federal and NSW elections only months away, some charities might plan to campaign on political issues.
The ACNCโs guidance on election activity, Charities, elections and advocacy, notes that registered charities may undertake activities that are โaimed at securing or opposing any change to a law, policy or practice in the Commonwealth, a state or territory, or another countryโ.
They include:
- Involvement in the development of public policy
- Promotion of, or opposition to, particular laws, policies, practices or decisions of governments, and
- Awareness-raising.
Registered charities cannot promote or oppose a political party or candidate.
Itโs wise for charities to familiarise themselves with the ACNCโs guidance before undertaking any advocacy to ensure that they do not risk their status.
