129 Australian international Non-government Organisations (INGOs), members of the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID), today celebrated the launch of revised and strengthened best-practice standards for the Australian development and humanitarian aid sector. The standards cover climate change, racial justice, and prioritising supporting local leadership in development.
The Code of Conduct changes will lift the bar on Australian INGOs' international development and humanitarian programs in 85 countries, representing a $1.89 billion revenue raised from the public and donors across the member organisations.
When it comes to climate action, amendments to the Code build on the work ACFID and its members have already done in developing a Climate Action Framework. The amendments seek to ensure that ACFID members are aware of the potential impacts of climate change in both their internal operations and their development and humanitarian initiatives, even if they do not specialise in climate programming.
The ACFID Code supports a well-regulated, ethical and efficient charity sector, benefiting ACFID members and the broader community they serve.
"The ACFID Code aligns with international best practice, ensuring the sector is keeping pace with global development and expectations, especially as we see protracted crises emerge," said ACFID CEO Marc Purcell.
"The Code's independent complaints mechanism also helps to build trust in the sector."
Speaking to the launch of the revised Code, Sue Woodward AM, Commissioner, Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission said: "The work that these charities do is crucial, empowering people and communities around the world. It is critical that rigorous governance underpins that work.
"Aligning the ACFID Code of Conduct with the ACNC Governance Standards and External Conduct Standards provides a strong foundation for an accountable and transparent sector.
"The new ACFID Code of Conduct will help to support a well-regulated, ethical and efficient charity sector working overseas."
ACFID's Independent Chair of the Code of Conduct Committee, Alan Cameron AO, said: "The revised code of conduct is an important moment in strengthening the commitment of ACFID's members to transparent, accountable and effective practice".
