The Gillard Labor Government marked the third anniversary of the National Compact: working together with the release of a draft Code of Best Practice for Engagement with the not-for-profit sector. Minister for Social Inclusion, Mark Butler said the new Code would be a practical reference tool for Not-for-Profit organisations and the Government when engaging on issues of public concern.
The draft Engagement Code has been developed collaboratively by the Government and the NFP Sector Reform Council, following consultation with the sector. The Government plans to implement the code across all areas of government, including through ‘Compact Advocates’ who have been appointed at the Deputy Secretary level in all Commonwealth departments.
Compact Advocates are playing an important role in the NFP reforms – streamlining funding arrangements with NFPs, reducing the red tape burden associated with financial reporting and strengthening dialogue between the sector and the Government. The Government’s dialogue with the sector is ongoing through its network of Compact Partners with over 890 NFP organisations having signed up to support the National Compact so far.
Submissions on the draft Engagement Code can be made until 29 April 2013.
To view a draft copy of the code CLICK HERE