Note: This document forms part of our publication Fundraising.
Local government authorities manage and regulate the use of public places. Public places are lands not under private ownership or lands that are vested in the Australian, state or territory governments. They can include parks, playgrounds, lake or coastal foreshores, sporting grounds, swimming pools, streets, footpaths, cycle ways, town centres, libraries, community centres, theatres and public galleries.
If a non-profit organisation wants to conduct fundraising activities in a public place, it should first find out the requirements of the relevant local council. In some instances, it may also need to consult other public institutions, such as state or territory road authorities.
Requirements vary from council to council, but generally can include:
ensuring that the proposed activity is permissible under the relevant planning policy, planning scheme or local environment plan
providing evidence of public liability insurance cover for the event, sufficient security and adequate toilet facilities
obtaining permits for preparing and selling food on site, operating electrical equipment, closing streets and selling alcohol, and
providing evidence that any rides (for example, jumping castles or merry-go-rounds) comply with relevant Australian standards, especially occupational health and safety laws.
The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) is a national representative for local government. Its members include all of the state and territory local government associations and the ACT Government.
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Note: This document forms part of our publication