Your decision to support one charity over another is usually based on your interest in the cause the charity supports. You may also choose a charity as a way to support a family member or as a way of remembering a deceased relative or friend. Whatever your motivation is it is something you have to be comfortable with. It is important to make sure you are comfortable with the charity’s activities.

Donating directly to an overseas-based charity can be risky as it may be difficult to verify the information found on websites or social media sites. You may prefer to donate to an Australian charity that supports the cause you are interested in.

Do a search on the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC)

The ACNC Register contains information about the more than 60 000 charities registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).

The charities listed on the Register have met the ACNC’s legal meaning of being a charity and other requirements under our Act, and have ongoing obligations to the ACNC, including keeping their information on the Register up-to-date. Other not-for-profits will not appear on the Register.

Do they have Deductible Gift Recipient status with the Australian Tax Office?

You can only make tax deductible gifts or donations to organisations that have the status of deductible gift recipients (DGRs).

Which states and territories does the charity have the authority to fundraise in?

Fundraising legislation varies from state to state which will mean that if a charity is looking to fundraise on a national basis, they will need to take the time to comply with the relevant fundraising legislation in each state.

Good news is Endometriosis Australia is registered with the ACNC and with the ATO as a DGR. We currently have the authority to fundraise in NSW and VIC. We are working on the other states and territories ready for International Endometriosis Awareness Month in March 2015.

We appreciate your support and patience while we work diligently to ensure we comply with all the legislative requirements in Australia. Our aim is to build a reputable charity that will make a positive change for women nationally for many years to come.

Jodie Dunne, Director/CoFounder, Endometriosis Australia

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