27 July 2010

Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector, Senator Ursula Stephens, today addressed the 5th Annual Associations Forum National Conference about the future of Australia’s non profit-sector.

Senator Stephens said the Gillard Labor Government recognised the considerable contribution the non-profit, or Third Sector, makes to the economy and wants to continue to work with the sector towards a more socially inclusive Australia.

In a recent report, the Productivity Commission identified that the non-profit sector contributed about $43 billion to the country’s Gross Domestic Product, with nearly five million volunteers adding $14.6 billion in unpaid work.

“This represents a significant part of the Australian economy and one whose expertise and contribution this Government needs to achieve its vision of an inclusive and fairer Australia,” Ursula Stephens said.

The Productivity Commission’s report makes 39 recommendations aimed at building a better knowledge base, smarter regulation, promoting giving, fostering innovation and sector development and reforming government purchasing and contracting arrangements.

“We have been listening to the sector’s views on the Productivity Commission’s Report and the Australia’s Future Tax System review, and have already implemented several reforms to improve the environment in which the sector works.

“We have implemented a National Compact with the sector to form the basis of our working relationship, introduced measures to reduce the reporting burden faced by non-profit organisations.

“However, there is still need for further reform and we are committed to an ongoing dialogue with the sector about these important matters.”

Media Releases | July 28, 2010

Print Friendly