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What is a charitable purpose?
What is a charitable purpose?
The definition of a 'charitable purpose' is very broad. It is based on the common law definition of a charitable purpose. At common law, there are four 'heads of charity'. These are:
- assistance to the aged, the sick and infirm, and the relief of poverty;
- the advancement of education;
- the advancement of religion; and
- any other purpose beneficial to the community.
Under the Act, a charitable purpose also includes any benevolent, philanthropic or patriotic purpose. Generally, appeals to the public to assist members of the community or for causes of benefit to the community are to be regarded as charitable appeals that must be made in accordance with the Act.
Further information about what a charitable purpose (PDF 188kb) is.
