Best Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Lawyers in Australia

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NEVETT FORD MELBOURNE PTY LTD
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1850
40 people in their team
English
Chinese
About us Nevett Ford is a full services law firm and a member of Law Australasia, a coalition of 19 law firms with affiliated offices throughout Australia.Our client relationships are the heart of our business and our priority is to foster a collaborative approach to ensure the advice and...
Evans Testa Lawyers
Hope Valley, Australia

Founded in 1982
2 people in their team
English
Our Core ValuesAt Evans Testa Barristers and Solicitors, the team understands that, whilst they deal with legal matters every day, for many clients the experience of finding a lawyer can be daunting or difficult. It was with this in mind that Founders Lauraine and Phil set out to create a firm...
Thomson Geer
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1885
550 people in their team
English
Welcome From Adrian TembelThis site sets out the basics of what we do and who we are.At Thomson Geer we focus on:delivering best practice legal skills and know how to your commercial environment;ensuring that the above delivery is made efficiently and reliably with an authentic and transparent...
Home Wilkinson Lowry
Brisbane, Australia

Founded in 1897
8 people in their team
English
WE'RE NOT YOUR TYPICAL LAW FIRMDespite what many law firm websites say, it can be very difficult to differentiate one firm from another. The more they claim to be different, the more similar they appear to be.Let us introduce you to a genuinely different firm. A firm offering exceptional quality...

Founded in 1992
2 people in their team
English
Jeanette JovanovicJeanette Jovanovic is an experienced litigation lawyer specialising in personal injury law, workers compensation, commercial law, wills and estates and has been practising for over 30 years. Jeanette’s work in the field of business and finance includes commercial and private...
Bardo Lawyers
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2011
50 people in their team
English
About usBardo Lawyers is a boutique firm with a national presence in the States of Victoria and New South Wales. With four offices in the Melbourne CBD (VIC), Glenroy (VIC) and Regents Park (NSW), we aim to use innovative systems and processes to ensure your solution is delivered efficiently and...
WBH Legal
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 2011
10 people in their team
English
OverviewWBH Legal is a vibrant, well established mid-sized firm based in Adelaide and Darwin. We are a multi-discipline legal practice with specific expertise in the areas of Building and Construction, Collaborative, Commercial, Conveyancing, Criminal, Debt Collection, Dispute Resolution,...
Advocate Lawyers
Kingston, Australia

Founded in 2022
10 people in their team
English
About usNow open in Kingston and Hobart! Advocate Lawyers provides services to residents of the Channel, Huon, Hobart and beyond. We can assist with specialist litigation support such as family law or employment disputes, as well as more general services such as conveyancing and wills & estate...
Elamine Lawyers
Preston, Australia

Founded in 2014
10 people in their team
English
About usExceptional track record in dealing with top tier, mid tier and suburban level commercial and boutique firms, we haven't missed a beat. Thankfully we have been able to digest complex and robust legal conundrums in property & trust laws, commercial law and family law. Having worked for...
Armstrong Lawyers Pty Ltd
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2000
4 people in their team
English
About usArmstrong Lawyers, based in Melbourne, provides a high level of service throughout Australia for businesses and individuals. The company is highly experienced in commercial litigation, agreements, employment, industrial relations, business buying and selling, franchising, and property...
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About Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Law in Australia

Nonprofit and charitable organizations in Australia are essential components of the social fabric, contributing significantly to various sectors, including education, health, arts, and social services. These entities are defined by their purpose to benefit the community rather than generate profit for private interests. Comprising trusts, associations, and corporations, these organizations operate under a complex legal framework that ensures their operations align with their altruistic goals. Overseeing this sector is a combination of federal and state or territory laws, with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) maintaining a significant regulatory role for charities.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer specializing in nonprofit and charitable organizations can be valuable in several scenarios:

  • Establishment and Registration: Forming a nonprofit requires navigating legal structures, tax obligations, and regulatory requirements. A lawyer can guide through incorporation, drafting constitutions, and registering with appropriate bodies like ACNC.
  • Compliance: Legal counsel ensures ongoing compliance with ever-changing regulations, helping to avoid penalties or loss of charity status.
  • Taxation Matters: Nonprofits may seek legal advice regarding eligibility for tax concessions, deductible gift recipient (DGR) status, and fulfilling taxation obligations.
  • Governance: Lawyers assist in establishing robust governance frameworks, resolving internal disputes, and risk management.
  • Contractual Arrangements: Expertise is often required in negotiating and drafting contracts, leases, and funding agreements.
  • Employment and Volunteer Issues: Legal advice is crucial for understanding obligations under employment law and managing volunteer relationships.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of local laws affecting nonprofit and charitable organizations in Australia include:

  • Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC): The national regulator for charities, offering guidance and ensuring compliance with reporting and operational standards.
  • State and Territory Laws: Nonprofit regulations can vary by state or territory, especially those governing incorporated associations.
  • Commonwealth Taxation Laws: Nonprofits may access specific tax benefits, but this requires compliance with the Australian Tax Office (ATO) standards.
  • Corporations Act 2001: Many nonprofits operate as companies limited by guarantee, subject to this federal law under the oversight of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
  • Fundraising Legislation: Organizations may need to comply with state-based fundraising laws, requiring licenses and adherence to guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a nonprofit and a charity in Australia?

While all charities are nonprofits, not all nonprofits qualify as charities. Charities must have charitable purposes for public benefit, which allows them to access additional tax concessions and regulatory recognition from the ACNC.

Do nonprofits pay taxes in Australia?

Nonprofits may be exempt from certain taxes if they satisfy specific requirements but must register with the ATO to access tax concessions.

How do I start a nonprofit organization in Australia?

Starting a nonprofit involves deciding on a legal structure, drafting governing documents, and registering with regulatory agencies such as the ACNC for charities.

Can a nonprofit organization in Australia trade or run businesses for profit?

Yes, but any profit must be reinvested into the organization’s objectives, not distributed to members or directors.

What are the responsibilities of nonprofit board members in Australia?

Board members must act in the best interest of the organization, ensure compliance with laws, manage financial affairs responsibly, and avoid conflicts of interest.

How often must nonprofits report to the ACNC?

Charities registered with the ACNC must submit an Annual Information Statement (AIS) every year.

What is deductible gift recipient (DGR) status?

DGR status allows donors to claim tax deductions on donations. Organizations must apply to the ATO for this status and meet certain eligibility criteria.

Can a nonprofit employ paid staff?

Yes, nonprofits can hire employees, and must adhere to employment laws regarding wages, conditions, and workplace rights.

What are the risks of non-compliance for nonprofits?

Risks include financial penalties, loss of tax concessions, reputational damage, and in severe cases, deregistration of the organization.

Do I need legal advice for fundraising activities?

Legal advice is beneficial as fundraising is regulated by state laws, requiring awareness and compliance with applicable rules and licensing requirements.

Additional Resources

Explore these resources for further guidance:

  • Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC): Provides regulatory guidance and support for charities.
  • Australian Taxation Office (ATO): Offers information on tax obligations and concessions for nonprofits.
  • State and Territory Regulatory Bodies: Manage state-specific regulations and incorporated associations.
  • Justice Connect Not-for-profit Law: Offers free legal information and training for nonprofits.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in the field of Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations, consider the following steps:

  1. Identify Your Needs: Determine the specific legal issues your organization is facing, such as compliance, governance, or tax matters.
  2. Research Potential Lawyers: Look for legal professionals with experience in nonprofit law, and who understand the specific sector you operate within.
  3. Schedule Consultations: Meet with potential lawyers to discuss your needs, understand their expertise, and evaluate their approach.
  4. Consider Pro Bono Services: Some lawyers and organizations provide free or low-cost legal services to nonprofits.
  5. Engage a Lawyer: Once you’ve found a suitable lawyer, formally engage them to assist with your legal needs.

Taking these steps can help ensure your nonprofit organization complies with legal obligations while pursuing its mission effectively.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Australia - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.