Givewell has released its Australian Charities Financial Analysis 2007 which shows that the charitable sector continued to grow at a steady rate in 2007 and was in good shape financially. However, an initial survey of Fundraising Appeals in 2008 indicates that the impact of the global economic downturn is already being felt and stormy times lie ahead.

For information on the survey copy and paste this URL into your web browser: http://www.givewell.com.au/survey_nov08.asp

A summary of the donations received and distributions made by prescribed private funds including details of the categories of the deductible gift recipients is now available at
http://www.ato.gov.au/distributor.asp?doc=/content/Content/00163533.htm

Published: 24 Oct 2008

The ATO has released a new version of its Fundraising Guide for non-profit organisations. The guide explains the tax treatment of fundraising activities and concessions available. It also outlines state, territory and local government requirements.
http://www.ato.gov.au/distributor.asp?doc=/content/Content/00165426.htm

Published: 01 Oct 2008

A new non-profit website has been created for fundraisers focusing on fundraising ideas and activities. While UK-based, the resources will offer Australian charities some useful resources.
Take a look: www.raisingfunding.co.uk/home.htm

Last month the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA), in alliance with Education Foundation, has released the How Young People Are Faring research report.

The report provides important information on how successfully our education and training system is working to meet the needs of young Australians as they make the transition from school to further study and work. It provides the most up-to-date analysis of the effectiveness of transitions, including information on who is doing well and who is not doing so well in negotiating the various post-school pathways.

Now in its 10th year, the report has to date been conducted by Dusseldorp Skills Forum. Beginning this year, FYA is taking over the creation and communication of the How Young People are Faring report. Under the management of FYA, the report will continue to provide an independent annual analysis of the participation of young Australians in learning and at work.

An "at a glance" summary and copy of the full report can be downloaded at www.fya.org.au

To order an electronic copy and join the How Young People are Faring online mailing list for future news and editions of this report, please send your contact details to hypaf@youngaustralians.org.

For further information about this report and other research enquiries please contact Dr Lucas Walsh lucasw@youngaustralians.org