WWF-AUSTRALIA: FOREIGN DONATIONS BILL “STILL A MESS & BAD FOR WILDLIFE CONSERVATION”

WWF-Australia CEO Dermot O’Gorman said the foreign donations Bill is “still a mess and bad for wildlife conservation”, despite changes recommended by a Federal Parliament Committee.

“WWF appreciates attempts by the Committee to fix major flaws with the Bill but huge problems persist. The Bill should be dumped and redrafted,” Mr O’Gorman said.

“Civil society’s right to use international funding to speak up for our unique wildlife, and the places we love, remains under threat,” he said.

Mr O’Gorman gave as an example WWF’s work to protect Antarctica.

“In 2016, governments from across the planet agreed to create the world’s largest Marine Protected Area in Antarctica’s Ross Sea."

“WWF was a strong advocate both within Australia and with governments in other countries."

“If this Bill goes ahead, WWF-Australia’s work to protect places like the Antarctic will be at risk."

“If charities are prevented from speaking up, our country will be a poorer place,” Mr O’Gorman said.

WWF is a part of the Hands Off Our Charities alliance – more information at https://www.strongercharities.org.au/