Today is Giving Tuesday, an annual global initiative established in 2012 aimed at giving back to the charities and not-for-profits that make a difference in so many lives.

Hon Dr Gary Johns, Commissioner of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission, said Giving Tuesday is a great opportunity for Australians to support the charity sector after the ongoing challenges the pandemic has presented.

“The last two years have been incredibly challenging in a number of ways, for individuals and for charities. Charities have supported so many people during this time and Giving Tuesday is a great opportunity for people to give back – in any way they can” he said.

Dr Johns said not all donations are monetary.

“There are a number of ways for Australians to support charities this Giving Tuesday. People can volunteer their time, donate their professional skills, or donate goods and supplies.

“Every act of generosity counts,” he said.

Dr Johns urged people to check the ACNC Charity Register to ensure the organisation they would like to donate money or goods to is a legitimate charity.

“If you do decide to donate to charity this Giving Tuesday, make sure you use the ACNC Charity Register and be confident that you’re supporting a registered charity.”

About ACNC:

The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) is the national regulator of charities. The ACNC was established in December 2012 to achieve the following objects:

• maintain, protect and enhance public trust and confidence in the Australian not-for-profit sector
• support and sustain a robust, vibrant, independent and innovative not-for-profit sector
• promote the reduction of unnecessary regulatory obligations on the sector.

The ACNC is led by Commissioner Hon Dr Gary Johns and a strong leadership team. The ACNC Commissioner’s position is established by section 110-5 of the ACNC Act.

The ACNC:

• registers organisations as charities
• helps charities understand and meet their obligations through information, guidance, advice and other support
• helps the public understand the work of the not-for profit sector through information, guidance, advice and other support
• maintains a free and searchable public register so that anyone can look up information about registered charities
• works with state and territory governments (as well as federal, state and territory government agencies) to develop a ‘report-once, use-often’ reporting framework for charities.