Andrew Leigh

Joint media release with
The Hon Luke Gosling OAM MP
Member for Solomon

CHARITIES CONSULTATIONS CONCLUDE IN DARWIN

The nation’s largest charity consultation reached Darwin yesterday, as the Albanese Government meets with charities across the country to discuss how to rebuild their role in communities.

Over the past generation, Australia’s community bonds have frayed as people have become less likely to join, volunteer and participate in community activities.

And for nearly a decade, the previous government downplayed and discouraged the expertise of charities and non‑profit organisations, and our communities have paid the price.

Yesterday’s Darwin Community Building Forum highlighted that Northern Territory charities are vital for vulnerable Australians and rebuilding community connections.

They deliver critical legal support, health support, and support conservation, land care, and closing the gap.

The forum also highlighted that Northern Territory charities are resilient and innovative, having found new ways to engage supporters and volunteers.

But ten years of neglect have left Northern Territory charities struggling to keep up with modern skills needs, new technologies, and complex regulations.

For nearly a decade, the government has downplayed and discouraged the expertise of charities and non‑profit organisations, and our communities have paid the price.

Charities deserve support and recognition, so they can continue supporting others.

The Albanese Government is committed to being a true partner to charities, and has pledged to fix fundraising laws, double philanthropy by 2030, and support charitable advocacy.

Underpinning these commitments is our commitment to develop a national blueprint for a stronger charity sector.

This blueprint will capitalise on the strengths and the experiences of charities around the country to chart a path to a better‑connected Australia.

The Darwin Building Community forum concludes our first phase of consultations to develop a national charities blueprint, which have now reached every state and territory capital.