Charities Act changes - what you need to know

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

The Charities Act 2005 has been 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 info@charities.govt.nz.

New changes

5 July 2023	5 October 2023	5 July 2024
Immediate changes	3 Month changes	12 Month changes
Charities Services will clarify the information on their website about how decisions are made. They'll start publishing model rules and other guidance to support 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	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.	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