The Tasmanian Community Fund Amendment Bill 2025 has passed the House of Assembly.
Minister for Community and Multicultural Affairs, Roger Jaensch, said the Bill is about strengthening the governance and independence of the Tasmanian Community Fund, while ensuring there are appropriate safeguards and accountability around how it operates.
"The Fund plays an important role in supporting communities right across our State, and Tasmanians rightly expect it to operate with integrity, transparency and independence," Minister Jaensch said.
"These changes will strengthen transparency and provide greater confidence that the Fund's decision-making, governance and grant processes are robust, impartial and in the best interests of the Tasmanian community."
The Bill strengthens the requirements on the Fund's Board around due diligence, grant management, record keeping and providing clear guidance and training to ensure it remains apolitical and independent.
The Board will also be prohibited from directly or indirectly making grants for political purposes, reinforcing the important principle that it must operate impartially.
"These are sensible governance reforms that are consistent with the standards expected of other Tasmanian Government boards and statutory authorities," Minister Jaensch said.
"Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, we are making sure the Fund is managed responsibly, transparently and in the best interests of Tasmanians."
