TodayTonight: OZ Clamps Down On Charity Tax Hustlers [video]

Charities Commission: charitable groups must now prove accountability
abc.net.au ~ A federal parliamentary committee has recommended the creation of a charities commission. The commission would ensure charitable and religious organisations were open and transparent.

They would also need to be able to prove they deserved a charitable status. Independent Senator Nick Xenophon has welcomed bipartisan support for the commission, saying organisations such as the Church of Scientology are on notice. "I believe reform is now inevitable. We can't continue to have business as usual when it comes to organisations that have been beyond any reasonable level of accountability," Mr Xenophon said. He believes reform in the sector is inevitable.

"This inquiry came about because of legislation I introduced for a public benefit test for religions and charities, and it was as a direct result of being approached by many victims of the Church of Scientology," said the Senator, and adds,"Their evidence, their complaints played a key role in triggering this inquiry."

Today Tonight - PBT Inquiry Release Special
The recommendations laid down by the Senate Economics Committee signal impending doom for organised Scientology in the form of increased scrutiny on charitable and religious organisations, as well a focus on the dangers and influences of cults.

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Explained in-depth at Jonny Jacobsen's infinitecomplacency (thanks Triumph) and video embed courtesy of Zhent

Updated coverage:September 8th

Australian Senate Committee recommends formation of Charities Commission
wikinews.org ~ The Economics Legislation Committee of the Australian Senate reported Tuesday on their investigation into the matter of investigating the benefits of religious charities in Australia, and recommended the formation of a Charities Commission. The recommendation has recieved bipartisan support. The inquiry began as the result of legislation initially introduced in the Senate by Senator Nick Xenophon after he had received complaints from former members of the Scientology organization in Australia.

"...it was as a direct result of being approached by many victims of the Church of Scientology. Their evidence, their complaints played a key role in triggering this inquiry." ~ Senator Nick Xenophon