Treasury Laws Amendment (Supporting Choice in Superannuation and Other Measures) Bill 2025; In Committee

Faruqi moved amendments to remove deductible gift recipient status from entities supporting illegal occupations, specifically citing settlements in the West Bank. The senator argued that Australian taxpayers should not subsidise organisations involved in what Faruqi described as illegal occupation and violence. Faruqi contended that the government's recognition of Palestine was contradicted by allowing tax deductions for charities supporting these activities.

Chisholm opposed the Greens' amendment regarding illegal occupations, stating that no DGR category allows support for illegal activities. The minister explained that charities must comply with ACNC governance and external conduct standards, including laws on terrorism financing and sanctions. Chisholm noted that failure to meet these standards could result in revoked registration and loss of DGR status.

Roberts raised concerns about the DGR status of Equality Australia, questioning why the government granted status despite previous tribunal and court rulings. The senator argued that the Governor-General's patronage of the group created a conflict of interest and questioned the neutrality of the office. Roberts withdrew his initial amendment but continued to challenge the government's justification for the status.

Chisholm defended the DGR status of Equality Australia, clarifying that entities in the bill were found ineligible through routine channels but warranted support due to community benefits. The minister stated that Equality Australia is a registered charity under the ACNC Act, with the purpose of advancing public debate. Chisholm rejected the claims that the group was not a charity or that the government was acting against legal rulings.

Faruqi moved amendments to expand DGR status to include animal welfare advocacy charities, arguing the current definition was too narrow. The senator highlighted that organisations preventing cruelty and advocating for standards were excluded, despite high public support for animal welfare. Faruqi noted that independent reviews had recommended expanding these benefits, which the government had yet to implement.

Chisholm opposed the animal welfare amendments, stating that many organisations already held DGR status under existing categories or specific listings. The minister referenced the Productivity Commission review of philanthropy, noting that the government was implementing recommendations methodically. Chisholm explained that broader DGR reforms were being considered to create fairer outcomes, rather than adding piecemeal categories.

McKim argued that the definition of animal welfare work in the tax act was too narrow and needed immediate correction. The senator contended that if advocacy groups like Equality Australia could receive DGR status, animal welfare advocacy groups should also be eligible. McKim stated that expanding status would increase donations to causes that Australians strongly support.