The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) Commissioner, Susan Pascoe AM, said charities with overdue 2014 Annual Information Statements (AIS) needed to take urgent action to avoid penalties.

“We will soon begin issuing warning letters to charities that have not submitted their 2014 Annual Information Statement (AIS),” says Pascoe.

“Submitting an AIS is a legislative requirement and deliberate non-compliance may result in penalties.”

Pascoe reminded charities that submitting their 2014 AIS will mean their entry on the national Charity Register is up to date.

“The Charity Register receives hundreds of thousands of views each year,” says Pascoe.

“The Charity Register allows members of the public, donors and grant-makers to find information about charities and the important work they do in the community. The information on the Charity Register increases transparency in the sector, and promotes public trust and confidence.”

Charities that do not use a standard reporting period of 1 July to 30 June are reminded that they have six months from the end of their reporting period to submit their 2014 AIS. Charities are advised to check their substituted accounting period is approved by viewing their charity’s entry on the Charity Register or by logging into the Charity Portal.