Have Your Say on the Future of the Not-for-Profit Sector

What matters to you, matters to us. As your peak body for volunteering, we are proactive about advocating for the support you need. That includes the not-for-profit sector, much of which is driven by the dedication and brilliance of its volunteers.

In the 2022-23 October Budget, the Australian Government announced the measure Development of the Not-for-profit (NFP) Sector Development Blueprint (the NFP Blueprint). The Australian Government is currently developing a blueprint for the next 10 years, and we want to amplify your voice.

The NFP Blueprint is to provide a roadmap for Government reforms and sector-led initiatives that will provide NFP and charity sector organisations with sustainable solutions and business models. The Blueprint will include options for reform to strengthen social capital and to build a vibrant sector.

The NFP Blueprint is intended to be a visionary document to ensure the NFP and charity sector is ‘future ready’ and to enable the sector to set its own direction to support Australians in need now and in the future.

Why is this Happening?

The Australian Government wants to secure the future of the not-for-profit sector. Backed by the Community Services Advisory Group, the Blueprint Expert Reference Group (BERG) are seeking consultation on a Not-for-Profit Sector Development Blueprint to ensure a fully consulted roadmap for the sector.

What is the Not-for-Profit Sector Development Blueprint?

The Not-for-Profit Sector Development Blueprint will inform initiatives and government reforms for the sector, and the role of philanthropy.

According to the Blueprint Expert Reference Group, this initiative seeks to ensure the sector is:

• Effective and responsive to change
• People-powered and centred
• Diverse, inclusive and cross-culturally capable
• Collaborative and connected
• Digitally enabled, informed by evidence and data capable
• Resourced and resourceful

With approximately 600,000 not-for-profit organisations in Australia, the Blueprint will have a significant impact on our communities and volunteering at large. That’s why we need your input to help make sure we get it right.

What You Can Do?

As your peak body, we are in a position to amplify your needs and concerns to government, and with your help, we will with as much accuracy as possible.

We’ve drafted a submission in response to the issues paper and want to hear your thoughts. Read a copy of the draft now and let us know your feedback.

Want to have your say on the future of the not-for-profit sector? Email Dr. Ben Hillier, our Director of Research, Advocacy and Policy, at bhillier@volunteering.com.au by Monday 11 December.