Guide to NFP Conflicts of Interest

For the first time the national charity regulator has released a guide for charities on managing conflicts of interest.

The new guide by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) explains conflicts of interests and what needs to be considered when they arise in NFP organisations.

Acting ACNC Commissioner, Murray Baird, said charities in Australia had a reputation for integrity and ethical behaviour which has earned them the trust of the community.

“Managing real, potential and perceived conflicts of interest is essential for charities to protect their reputation,” Baird said.

“Conflicts of interest, both perceived and real, are common and, when properly managed, do not have to represent a problem for charities.

“It is how you manage these issues that will determine what affect they have on your charity and its perception in the community.”

He said the guide provides charities with practical advice and case studies to help them manage conflicts of interest.

“This guide explains what conflicts of interest are and the steps charities can take to identify, prevent and manage conflicts when they arise,” he said.

“It explores the duties of charity board members around disclosure and answers some of the common questions charities have on this topic.”

The guide also provides charities with resources, such as a template policy and register of interests, to help them manage conflicts of interest.

Managing conflicts of interest – A guide for charity board members is available for download here.