The letter will contain a user name and password that will allow charities to log in to complete their statement. The 2013 Annual Information Statement (AIS) is due by 31 December 2013, or six months after the end of an approved substituted accounting period.

ACNC Commissioner Susan Pascoe says the 2013 AIS was an important step in enhancing public trust and confidence, and reducing red tape for charities.

“While it is a legislative requirement that all registered charities complete their 2013 AIS, there are a number of specific benefits for charities in doing so,” says Pascoe.

“Firstly, much of the information that charities provide through the 2013 AIS will be placed on the ACNC Register. It is important that this information is up to date, as members of the public are likely to use the expanded search functionality on the Register to find certain types of charities in specific areas.”

Charities can expect to receive user names and passwords by mail from late July 2013.

The ACNC has already prepared and published guidance materials. Charities can access these materials via: www.acnc.gov.au/2013AIS