The rise and fall of Australia's first independent regulator for the not-for-profit sector: a missed opportunity for philanthropy

This article examines the creation and eventual dissolution of Australia’s first independent regulator for the not-for-profit sector, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), and its implications for philanthropy. It traces the legislative reform journey, highlighting extensive efforts to establish a charity regulator and a new definition of charity. The author acknowledges the ACNC’s professionalism in navigating a complex political environment, noting its positive staff culture, consultative approach to administrative guidance, and efforts in legal reforms. Despite its initial promise for improving regulation.