One-off charitable appeals
Organisations and individuals that aren't eligible to register as a charity can apply for a sanction (i.e. an approval or a permit) to fundraise for a one-off charitable purpose. It's illegal to fundraise in Queensland without approval.
The duration of the appeal must be less than 6 months (unless we agree to a longer term).
The funds must be donated during—or at the end of—the appeal and must be used for the purpose they were raised.
You need to consider:
- how the fundraising appeal will be conducted—for example, a raffle, a sale or an online fundraiser
- other legal requirements—for example, if you're conducting a raffle, you may need a permit from the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation
- who the funds will be directed to—if there are multiple beneficiaries, document your process for deciding who is eligible
- who will have access to the bank account where the funds are deposited—ensure tight control over access to and distribution of funds and keep proper records
- what you'll do if you raise more than necessary—excess funds or goods must be directed to another charitable purpose.
Requirements
Before you apply, you must:
- have at least 3 promoters who will conduct the appeal—they can't be related to each other or the beneficiary
- have the promoters sign a letter saying they're aware they need to submit audited financial statements within 4 weeks of the appeal ending
- have a charity that will receive any donations that can't be used for the purpose of the appeal
- open a bank account in the name of the appeal—at least 2 people, who aren't related to each other or the beneficiary, must manage this account.
Ready to apply online?
Apply to fundraise for a one-off charitable purpose
It's free.
Read more about applying online.
Supporting documents
You must attach the following supporting documents to your application:
- a statement explaining the reason for the appeal
- evidence of the need for an appeal—for example, if the appeal is for someone with a medical condition, a statement from the beneficiary's doctor
- where the beneficiary is a person or association, a letter signed by the beneficiary (or their legal representative) stating they'll accept the proceeds.
Processing time
Applications usually take 4 to 6 weeks to process. It can take longer if you haven't supplied all the information we need.
Other ways to apply
Complete the application for a sanction form.
You can lodge the form:
In person—visit one of our locations
By post
Registration Services Unit
Office of Fair Trading
GPO Box 3111
BRISBANE QLD 4001
Note: You can't apply by email or phone.
Attachments
When submitting this form, you must remember to submit the supporting documents.
Fee: Nil