THE Greater Shepparton Foundation Community Charity Limited has been officially declared one of 33 newly established Community Charities across Australia under the Australian Government’s Community Charity Guidelines – a landmark reform set to unlock locally led solutions to some of the region’s most pressing social challenges.
Announced by Assistant Minister for Charities, the Hon Andrew Leigh, the declarations mark a turning point for community philanthropy nationwide and locally. The new Community Charity category, legislated last year, creates a dedicated deductible gift recipient (DGR) framework specifically designed for community foundations.
For Greater Shepparton, this milestone enables the Foundation to seek Australian Taxation Office endorsement under the new settings and significantly expands its capacity to attract philanthropic investment and respond directly to local priorities.
The reform removes long-standing structural barriers that limited how resources could flow into communities. The new category unlocks greater flexibility, making it easier for funders to work alongside community foundations and direct resources closer to where they are needed most.
Greater Shepparton Foundation Chair Mark DePaola says the announcement will enable new opportunities to mobilise local capital, strengthen partnerships and invest in community-driven responses.
“The Greater Shepparton Foundation, and its preceding organisation The Community Fund Goulburn Valley marks 25 years supporting the needs of community this year,” says Mr DePaola
“It is timely and a credit to the power of work of so many that in our 25th year of operation, and the year we launch the Forever Fund, the Greater Shepparton Foundation Community Charity Limited also comes to fruition.”
Greater Shepparton Foundation Executive Officer and Community Foundations Australia board director, Amanda McCulloch says operating as a Community Charity, the Greater Shepparton Foundation is positioned to deepen its impact in community.
“This reform puts power directly into the hands of local people enabling them to shape decisions, direct resources and champion the priorities that matter most to their community, strengthening connection, building social capital and creating lasting resilience.”
“In the years ahead, the Foundation will play a vital role in fostering a more self-determining and connected Greater Shepparton, ensuring local generosity creates meaningful and lasting impact.”
