The ACNC does not have the power to investigate every concern that is raised, particularly where the concern is outside our area of regulatory responsibility. For more information about our areas of responsibility, see our guidance on what the ACNC can investigate.
Here we provide information on some of the areas that are outside the ACNC's responsibility, as well information on the appropriate regulators or contact points.
Areas outside the ACNC's responsibility
Fundraising
The ACNC does not administer fundraising laws – they remain the responsibility of state and territory regulators.
We suggest you contact the fundraising regulator in your state or territory.
Internal disputes
Internal disputes include disagreements between the Responsible People (board or committee members, or trustees) of a charity, and are neither a serious risk nor a breach of the ACNC Act.
In some states and territories there are free mediation services that may be able to help you resolve problems, such as the Victorian Dispute Settlement Centre.
Find out more about dealing with internal disputes.
Contractual disputes between a charity and other organisations or individuals
This includes tenders and purchases. Other government departments and agencies often look at this issue.
Quality of services a charity provides
The agency you need to contact to raise a concern will be different depending on the services being provided.
For example, if you have concerns about how a charity provides health services you can contact your state or territory Health Services Commission.
Policies or actions of boards or directors that are within their powers
If a charity's Responsible People are using their powers as set out in the charity’s governing document, and the charity is ensuring that they are following their duties under the ACNC Governance Standards, then the ACNC has no power to investigate.
Employment issues such as unfair dismissal
Often you can raise these kinds of concerns with the Fair Work Commission.