5 September 2023 meeting of the Blueprint Expert Reference Group - communique

The Blueprint Expert Reference Group (BERG) met virtually on Tuesday, 5 September 2023. They significantly progressed the development of an Issues Paper that will form the basis for broad consultation on the development of a Not-for-profit (NFP) Sector Development Blueprint. 

Professor Jo Barraket, the BERG Expert Advisor, and BERG members had a detailed discussion on the first draft of the Blueprint Issues paper. They agreed next steps, working towards the public consultation commencing in late October. 

The Productivity Commission and BERG continue to share updates. This is due to the strong linkages between the Inquiry into Philanthropy and the NFP Blueprint. 

Philanthropy Australia, the peak body for philanthropy in Australia and an ACNC registered charity, presented possible ways to increase philanthropy. There was a detailed discussion with BERG to build an understanding of the reforms that it is recommending to the PC Inquiry. Their aim is to build common ground and identify areas of mutual interest for consideration in developing the NFP Blueprint. 

BERG is open to hearing from interested stakeholders while it continues to build a stakeholder list with which to engage during the consultation phase of the Issues Paper. Email BERGSecretariat@dss.gov.au to be notified when the public consultation begins. 

The next BERG meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, 10 October 2023.