The campaign group opposed to the proposed level crossing removal in Newport has been issued with a warning from Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) over possible fundraising breaches.
Late last month CAV wrote to the Keep Champion Road Open (KCRO) campaign, informing the group it had been made aware of donations being collected and solicited by the campaign which could be considered a fundraising appeal.
In the letter, seen by Star Weekly, KCRO is reminded that unless exempt, all fundraising in Victoria must be registered and that penalties, including jail time, can apply to those who remain unregistered.
Under the Fundraising Act, organisations are exempt from having to register if they raise less than $20,000 in a financial year.
KCRO spokesperson Gill Gannon said the implication that the campaign had raised more than $20,000 was ridiculous.
“While we’re flattered they think we’re that successful, let’s set the record straight—our grassroots community efforts are powered by passion, not piles of cash,” said Ms Gannon who added that whoever had tipped-off CAV, was ill-informed.
“Whoever has done it has probably needed to do a little more due diligence because we’re not an entity, we’re not a charity, a political party or a business,” she said.
“We’re just a group of local people who’ve come together for a common cause to keep Champion Road open.”
Ms Gannon said the only fundraising KCRO did went into a kitty to pay for campaign materials such as posters, corflutes and bumper stickers.
A spokesperson for CAV said they didn’t comment on individual cases, but that they regularly engaged with those doing fundraising to ensure they were complying with the law.
“Victoria’s fundraising laws ensure people can be confident when making donations for causes they support,” the spokesperson said.
The warning letter came as works commenced on the controversial project with the removal of trees along Railway Parade, prompting Hobsons Bay council to again voice its opposition.
“We will continue to advocate for what our community has made clear it wants, which is for this important local thoroughfare to remain open,” said mayor Daria Kellander.
Speaking in parliament last week, Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said her constituents didn’t support the current level crossing removal plans and that safety issues needed to be addressed.
“There needs to be much more work done on improving safety outcomes particularly for children, pedestrians and cyclists,” Ms Horne said.
Despite the commencement of works and warning over their fundraising activities, Gill Gannon said KRCO would continue to fight for better outcomes for the community.
“We will not be giving up. Ever.”
