Media Release

June 19, 2002

AUSTRALIANS should use the last days of this financial year as an opportunity to make a real difference by donating to their favourite community and non-profit groups. And they can now donate to many groups safely and securely online.

The end of June was the perfect time for people - and businesses - to look at their donations record and see if they could afford to provide more support to deserving community groups, said Dr Rhonda Galbally, the CEO of www.ourcommunity.com.au a national online resource for Australia's 700,000 community groups.

"The past 12 months have been really tough for most non-profit groups, particularly given the recent rises in public liability insurance costs, so many community groups are looking for help just to keep their programs and services on track," Dr Galbally said.

"The end of financial year is a good reminder to people about reviewing their own giving habits. Some people will donate for the tax breaks but most Australians don't give money for that reason. They donate because they think it is the right thing to do and because they think that they can make a real difference - and they can whether they donate $5 or $50,000. It all helps."

Dr Galbally said as well as supporting the major appeals, people should also think local and look to the small community groups that have made, and continue to make, a real impact on their own lives.

"We often forget the community groups that make such a positive impact on our own daily lives. Whether it's tax deductible or not, now is the time to return the favour," Dr Galbally said.

Many community groups are holding winter or mid-year appeals and were calling out for public support. About 100 groups, including Oxfam, the National Heart Foundation, Yooralla, the Benevolent Society, AIDS Foundation and numerous local health support, research and community-based groups were now able to take donations online through the www.ourcommunity.com.au online donations facility, a free service.

"Donating online is still a relatively new feature but since September 11, it has continued to grow steadily and online donations now provides a new method for groups to access much-needed funds," Dr Galbally said.

Dr Galbally said potential donors can search www.ourcommunity.com.au/donations for appeals or look up one of the thousands of worthwhile groups operating in their own neighbourhood. She also called on businesses looking around to spend excess money in their budgets before the end of financial year to also consider supporting local community groups.

"Don't waste the money. Ask your staff to nominate groups that mean something to them and see how you can provide support. Not just one-off support but ongoing help," Dr Galbally said.