Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Advisory Board (Member) Appointment (No.1) 2025

Overview

The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Advisory Board (Member) Appointment (No.1) 2025I, enacted on 21 July 2025, was introduced to address the need for skilled and experienced individuals to advise the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Advisory Board. Myles McGregor-Lowndes has been appointed as a part-time member of the Advisory Board, under the authority of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, to contribute their expertise and insights to the Commission's work. The policy objective of this appointment is to ensure that the Advisory Board has the necessary knowledge and experience to provide effective advice on the regulation and oversight of charities and not-for-profit organisations in Australia. This appointment was made by Andrew Leigh, the Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, and is a continuation of the government's commitment to strengthening the regulatory framework for charities and not-for-profit organisations in Australia.

Scope and Application

The legislation, F2025N00598 (Notifiable instrument) concerning the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Advisory Board (Member) Appointment (No.1) 2025I, pertains to the appointment of Myles McGregor-Lowndes as a part-time member of the Advisory Board for a term running from 2 August 2025 to 1 August 2026. This appointment is made by Andrew Leigh, the Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, under the authority granted by subsection 140-5(1) of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012. This act governs the operations and regulation of charitable organisations and not-for-profit entities within Australia, ensuring compliance with charitable laws and standards. The Advisory Board plays a critical role in advising the Commission on various aspects of its regulatory functions and policy development. The appointment is subject to the provisions of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 and any relevant subordinate instruments that may further define the role, responsibilities, and scope of the Advisory Board.

Key Provisions

The legislation F2025N00598, or the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Advisory Board (Member) Appointment (No.1) 2025I, appoints Myles McGregor-Lowndes to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Advisory Board. This appointment is made under subsection 140-5(1) of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, effective from 2 August 2025 until 1 August 2026. Myles McGregor-Lowndes will serve on a part-time basis, contributing his expertise and insights to the board during this period. The main operative sections of this legislation focus on the formal appointment of Myles McGregor-Lowndes to the Advisory Board. Section 1 of the instrument provides the official appointment, specifying the role, duration, and the basis of service. The intent is to ensure the Advisory Board is staffed with individuals who can provide valuable guidance and oversight to the Commission's operations, particularly in the not-for-profit sector. Myles's part-time commitment allows him to balance his duties with other professional responsibilities while still contributing effectively to the board's objectives. In terms of obligations, Myles McGregor-Lowndes, as a member of the Advisory Board, will be expected to participate in board meetings, contribute to the strategic direction of the Commission, and provide expert advice on issues related to charities and not-for-profits. His role will also involve reviewing and advising on regulatory matters, policy development, and ensuring the Commission's activities align with legislative requirements and public interest. Failure to comply with the obligations or duties as outlined in the legislation may lead to potential consequences. While the specific consequences are not detailed in this particular instrument, breaches of statutory duties or misconduct by Advisory Board members can typically result in disciplinary actions, including potential removal from the board. In more severe cases, legal action may be pursued under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, which could involve penalties such as fines or other sanctions as prescribed by law. The exact penalties would depend on the nature and severity of the breach, but they could range from financial penalties to more stringent legal consequences.