Age Concern New Zealand and our network of local Age Concerns operate using a federation model of membership and have a strong interest in the wellbeing of incorporated societies and their ability to fulfill their stated purpose. This submission has been prepared with support and input from our member organisations and after discussions with other members of the community and volunteer sector.
We agree that the 1908 Act is no longer fit for purpose and support the recommendations of the Law Commission’s 2013 Report A New Act for Incorporated Societies.
Age Concern New Zealand and member organisations are also supportive of the intent and overall content of the proposed Bill.
Additionally, our submission puts forward a range of recommendations that we believe will strengthen the Bill. We are pleased to see the Bill being modernised and would like to see a date set for the review of the Bill and its impact on societies post implementation.