2019 Charities Services Annual Meeting
About 200 people gathered in Christchurch on 23 September 2019 to attend Charities Services’ Annual Meeting.
The newly appointed Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, Hon Poto Williams, launched the meeting with her vision for the sector and an update on the modernisation of the Charities Act 2005. Acknowledging the large number of submissions received during the consultation period, she was clear that “the community must, should and can drive government policy”.
Roger Holmes Miller, chair of the independent Te Rātā Atawhai Charities Registration Board, shared this theme of social change by calling for charity law to be responsive to the dynamic nature of the sector. “Looking forward, the Charities Registration Board prefers an approach to charity law that is responsive to the way that charities and New Zealand society can work in 2019.”
Natasha Weight wrapped up the speeches by outlining Charities Services’ plans for the upcoming year, as well as the progress achieved to date. She highlighted Charities Services’ aim to be “a modern, responsive, risk-based regulator” including “using modern tools to provide support.” She further emphasised the importance of being responsive to the needs of the sector. “Being a responsive regulator is about listening”, asking the audience “how can we support you better?”
The Minister and senior Charities Services staff also gave charities an opportunity to have their say and ask the hard questions. This helps us understand what charities need, and what frustrates them about the current system.
We are always keen to get feedback, so if you have any questions or thoughts please feel free to contact us(external link).
Those who could not make the meeting were able to join us live on Facebook(external link).
Handouts