Issue Date:  -  Monday, 18 February 2002

Alleged Unregistered Charity

Following an approach by Jim Kelly of the Sunday Times concerning a suspected unregistered charity, the Commissioner for Consumer Protection Patrick Walker said:

"You cannot collect donations for Charities in Western Australia unless you are registered."

"In relation to the matter brought before the Sunday Times, I can confirm that the organisation is not currently licensed as a charity in Western Australia."

"I understand the organisation is intending to submit an application, which will need to be considered by the Charitable Collections Advisory Committee before a decision is made."

"Our initial enquiries have not revealed the receipt of donations. However, if any person has made a donation, as distinct from the purchase of a raffle ticket, we urge them to contact the Department of Consumer and Employment Protection immediately."

Consumer Protection officers can be contacted on telephone number 1300 30 40 54 or by email at consumer@docep.wa.gov.au.