The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) has released a series of screencasts to assist charities to complete their 2016 Annual Information Statements.

The screencasts are instructional videos that demonstrate how to fill out the 2016 Annual Information Statement online, which is a reporting requirement for all registered charities.

ACNC Commissioner Susan Pascoe AM says the screencasts, which are part of the Annual Information Statement guide, are a welcome addition to the range of reporting tools and guidance already available.

“The screencasts walk you through how to fill out the Annual Information Statement as you complete it online.

“They are a very useful tool. When used together with the checklist and the Annual Information Statement guide, people doing their reporting can feel confident that they have all the information they need to answer the questions correctly,” Ms Pascoe said.

The ACNC is urging charities to get ahead and submit their Annual Information Statements before their deadline.

Charities that report using the standard July to June financial year are required to submit their 2016 Annual Information Statement before 31 January 2017.

“For many charities, the lead up to the Christmas period is a busy one. It is often a peak fundraising time, as well as a peak activity time.

“These charities may find it beneficial to complete their Annual Information Statements now, rather than doing it just before the deadline in January.

“Additionally, ACNC team members are able to respond to phone calls and emails for assistance more quickly outside of the key submission deadlines,” Ms Pascoe added.

The screencasts and all the ACNC’s guidance for the 2016 Annual Information Statement is available online at acnc.gov.au/2016AIS.