Productivity Commission Inquiry on Philanthropy is provided to Government today

The Productivity Commission (PC) is providing its final report on philanthropy to the Federal Government today, another big milestone in the double giving agenda, writes Philanthropy Australia’s Executive Director of Policy, Government Relations and Research, Sam Rosevear. Here, Sam provides an update on his advocacy to government regarding when the inquiry’s findings will be made public.

This report is the key input to inform the delivery of the Government’s election commitment to Develop a Strategy to Double Giving to Charity by 2030.

The PC draft report was released at the end of November and contained some positive recommendations, including to expand Deductible Gift Recipient status to thousands of additional charities. Following great member sessions in January, PA’s submission – and our advocacy – has focused on seven core areas:

1. Super bequests
2. A voluntary choice to donate as part of the tax return process
3. A strategy to grow Australia’s Community Foundation network
4. A National Giving Campaign
5. Strengthening the Charity Sector.
6. A national giving and volunteering data set
7. Governance arrangements to drive stronger impact.

When will the report be made public?

Under the Productivity Commission Act 1998, the Government is required to table the report in each House of the Parliament within 25 sitting days (or several months) of receipt. I met with Charities Minister Andrew Leigh earlier the week beginning 6 May 2024 to suggest the report be released publicly at the earliest possible opportunity to give the process national attention and momentum. 

Philanthropy Australia is asking the government to develop a package of reforms to fulfil its election commitment at an early opportunity, later this year.

Sam Rosevear will keep Philanthropy Australia members updated on further developments as they arise.