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Commissioner's Column
Language, like life, is ever-changing. New words emerge, old meanings shift, and familiar terms take on new life when presented in new circumstances.
Take the word ‘text’, for example. Once used to refer to a book or written passage, it now more commonly describes a message sent via mobile phone.
This evolution isn’t just linguistic—it reflects changes in society.
Charity news and updates
Guidance and resources for charities
Free webinar:
Everything you need to know about the AIS
Are you preparing to submit an Annual Information Statement (AIS)?
Register for our free webinar and be guided step-by-step through the process.
Join us online on Tuesday 28 October from 12pm - 12.45pm (AEDT).
We’ll go through each question in detail, which is great for first timers or those wanting a refresher.
Template to
document related party transactions
Charities must report on their related party transactions through the Annual Information Statement.
For reporting purposes, this is defined as a transfer of resources, services, or obligations between related parties. It doesn't have to include financial payment.
Download a free related party register template to help your charity meet its record keeping requirements.
2025 Annual Information Statement
Charities that operate on a standard financial year (1 July to 30 June) must submit their 2025 Annual Information Statement prior to 31 January 2026.
Remember that there are questions requiring you to report your charity's dealings with related parties. You can learn more about the questions, and what you need to know before completing your charity's AIS on the AIS Hub.
Get in early, beat the rush and submit via the Portal now.
Answering your questions
Q: How can I find a record of my charity’s previously submitted Annual Information Statements?
If you are logged into the ACNC Charity Portal, you can download past Annual Information Statements by scrolling down to the ‘Manage reporting’ section.
Or you can search the Charity Register. Enter your charity’s name or ABN.
The ‘Financials & Documents’ tab will list your charity’s past Annual Information Statements and financial reports.
Q. What can we do to protect our charity from cyber attacks?
There are some simple things your charity can do, and it doesn’t have to cost a cent. These include changing passwords regularly and limiting access to computer systems to only those who need it.
Conducting an information audit and keeping an information asset register can be a useful way to identify sensitive assets, understand where they are stored and who has access. This can the help manage potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.
Our Governance Toolkit: Cyber Security has a range of practical tips to manage cyber risk.
Resources for newly-registered charities
Charities must meet ongoing obligations to retain registration. You must notify us each time a Responsible Person (a committee or board member or trustee) commences or resigns from a position. Learn more.
Holding an annual general meeting is a good way to be accountable to your members. Read more about AGMs and view our free resources.
Stay up to date
The ACNC acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures and Elders past and present.
