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Accepting and using political donations

Political donations must be disclosed in New South Wales and only people on the electoral roll, entities with a business number, or those whose identification has been accepted by the NSW Electoral Commission can lawfully make political donations.

Find out more about who can make political donations by watching the video below. Find translated political donation video content in 24 community languages.

It is an offence to make or accept a political donation that does not comply with the law. This includes anonymous donations, cash donations of more than $100, donations from prohibited donors, and donations from political parties (or their associated entities, or their endorsed candidates or elected members) to independent candidates or groups.

Complete and accurate accounting and financial records must be kept in order for political donations to be properly disclosed. A receipt must be issued for all reportable donations received, and the name and address of the donor recorded.

Political participants may be required to first register with the NSW Electoral Commission before accepting political donations.

All political donations must be made to or by the person responsible and paid into or from the campaign account.