Donation Policy

Last updated: 15 December 2025

The Australian Charity for Burundi (ACB) is dedicated to supporting sustainable development initiatives in Burundi. We rely on the generosity of our supporters to achieve this mission. This policy outlines how ACB manages donations, ensures transparency, and handles refund requests.

1. Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) Status and Tax Receipts

1.1 DGR Status

ACB is endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR). All donations of $2 or more made to ACB are tax-deductible for Australian taxpayers.

1.2 Tax Receipts

ACB utilises the MyCause platform to process donations. Tax receipts are issued directly by the MyCause Gift Fund in accordance with its terms. Receipts will be sent to the email address provided during the transaction. Please retain this receipt for your tax records.

1.3 Definition of a Gift

To qualify as tax-deductible, a gift must be a voluntary transfer of money or property where the donor receives no material benefit or advantage in return. If you receive a material benefit (e.g., a ticket to a dinner, raffle entry, or auction item), the tax-deductibility of your contribution may be limited by ATO rules.

2. Donation Processing (mycause)

2.1 Payment Gateway

All online donations to ACB are processed securely via our trusted payment platform partner, MyCause (MyCause Gift Fund).

2.2 Terms and Conditions

By donating to ACB, the donor acknowledges and agrees to the terms and conditions set out by the MyCause platform regarding payment security, transaction processing, and data handling. These terms are available on the MyCause website.

2.3 Fees

ACB receives the net amount of the donation after MyCause’s standard platform and processing fees have been deducted, unless the donor voluntarily chooses to cover these fees at the time of the transaction.

2.4 Data Sharing

In accordance with our Privacy Policy and MyCause’s terms, necessary donor data (including name, contact information, and donation amount) is passed on to ACB. This allows us to manage our supporter relationships and communicate the impact of your gift.

3. Use of Funds

3.1 Purpose

ACB’s mission is to support sustainable development initiatives in Burundi. We focus on grassroots empowerment, education, and economic opportunities that enable communities to build a stable future.

3.2 Allocation of Funds

To ensure transparency and maximum impact, ACB applies the following breakdown to funds raised:

  • 85% Project Delivery: Directly funds our charitable programs and development work in Burundi.
  • 10% Administration: Covers essential governance, compliance, and operational costs to keep the organisation running effectively.
  • 5% Fundraising: Allocated to the costs of raising further support to expand our reach and impact.

3.3 Designated Appeals

While ACB attempts to direct gifts to a particular project or appeal as designated by the donor, ACB retains the discretion to determine the allocation of funds in a manner that best supports our overall charitable mission. This applies particularly in cases of changing need, or if a project is fully funded or cancelled.

4. Donation Refund Policy

ACB is committed to acting with integrity and transparency. We treat all refund requests with discretion and sensitivity.

4.1 General Policy (Change of Mind)

As a registered charity, ACB is under no obligation to refund a donation where a donor has simply had a change of mind. We ask all donors to carefully consider their decision to donate.

4.2 Refund Eligibility (Exceptional Circumstances)

Refunds will only be considered in exceptional circumstances and at the discretion of the ACB Board. These circumstances may include:

  • A processing error (e.g., incorrect amount entered by ACB or the donor).
  • A proven instance of unauthorised card use.
  • A recurring donation that was not correctly cancelled after a formal request was made.

4.3 Procedure for Refund Request

  • Time Limit: You have 30 days from the date of the transaction to submit a refund request.
  • Contact: All requests must be made in writing to the ACB Treasurer/Complaints Officer.
  • Information Required: The request must include the full name of the donor, the donation date and amount, the receipt number (if available), and a clear explanation of the reason for the refund request.

4.4 Refund Terms

  • Tax Receipt Invalidity: If a donation is refunded, the original tax receipt becomes void and invalid. It is the donor’s responsibility to destroy the invalid receipt and only submit correct information to the ATO.
  • Fees: ACB reserves the right to deduct any non-recoverable transaction, processing, or bank fees from the refunded amount.

5. Contact for Donations

For questions, requests for correction of donor details, or to submit a refund request, please contact:

The Treasurer/Complaints Officer
Australian Charity for Burundi (ACB)
Email: info@acb.org.au
Mail: 329/98-100 Elisabeth Street
Melbourne VIC 3000