Charities Act changes - what you need to know

Created: March 26, 2024 at 5:54 PM | Updated: October 25, 2024 | By Charities Services

The Charities Act 2005 was amended by the Charities Amendment Bill, which came into force on 5 July 2023.

There are a wide range of changes for charities to be aware of. If you need any more information, you can email Charities Services at [email protected].

Changes happened in three groups - immediately the amendment came into force, 3 months later, and 12 months later. These changes (by date) are:

On 5 July 2023

• Charities Services will clarify the information on their website about how decisions are made.
• They'll start publishing model rules and other support guidance.
• They’ll embed some improvements to the data on the Charities Register.
• The maximum size of Te Rātā Atawhai (the independent Charities Registration Board) will increase from three to five.

On 5 October 2023

• The definition of who counts as one of your officers gets wider and clearer.
• Charities Services will give you two months notice if it looks like your application for registration might be declined. Applicants will now get two months to make submissions on this.
• Charities will need to review their rules within the next three years from today.
• Charities Services will need to consult with you on all significant guidance they publish.
• The Board will be able to disqualify officers for serious wrongdoing after a completed investigation without having to deregister the rest of their charity.

On 5 July 2024

• Charities will be able to appeal decisions made by Charities Services or the Board to the Taxation Review Authority (before the High Court).
• People will be able to appear in person to speak to the Board.