Last week the Federal Government announced it was implementing a $2000 cap on work-related self-education expenses.

 

The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is gravely concerned about the significant impact this policy will have on the Australian nonprofit sector.

 

Why is this a problem?

 

In the first instance, this policy will severely impact financial viability of nonprofit organisations who provide work related educational programs for a fee. This is just the first of a number of serious flow on effects that will impact all Australians. This policy will: 

• Adversely impact the sustainability of Australia’s not-for-profit sector
• Increase calls from affected not-profits for financial support from government\
• Lead to a decline in overall skill levels of Australian employees
• Adversely affect the young and those just starting in careers
• Adversely affect the competitiveness of Australian workers in the global marketplace

For the above reasons we find the decision to introduce the cap to be retrograde step and we are asking the Federal government to reconsider the implementation of this policy for the sake of the nonprofit sector, young and vulnerable workers, and the Australian economy. See our media release for more detail on each of these concerns.

 

What action is AuSAE taking?

• We have sent a letter to the Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer outlining our concerns and requesting a meeting to discuss this further.
• We have issued a media release to Australian media to educate them about this issue.

What you can do?

 

If your organisation is going to be adversely impacted by this policy we encourage you to take action by:

 

1. Contacting your local Federal MP or Senator to express your concern and ask that this policy be urgently rescinded.
2. Email president@ausae.org.au to tell us how this decision will affect your organisation.
3. Forward this email to your colleagues so they are aware of what is happening and encourage them to take action.

AuSAE is working hard to have this issue resolved favourably and will keep you up to date with any developments.

 

REgards,

Tony Steven
President

 

E    president@ausae.org.au T @AuSAENews W www.ausae.org.au
P   +61 (0) 3 6223 2047  F +61 (0) 7 3319 6385  M +61 (0) 409 219 368
A   PO Box 1400, Coorparoo DC QLD 4151 Australia