Economh

Throughout the global financial crisis, the spending habits of populations around the world have been scrutinised and stimulated as a key driver in restoring economic wellbeing. In fact, the performance of the retail sector remains one of the most commonly referred to indicators, precisely because it makes such a significant contribution to national GDP.

Courtney Prosser and Isabella Payne at a new Salvation Army op shop on NSW's Central Coast. The Salvos reported a 20 per cent sales growth in the past 12 months as a result of the global financial crisis.

Many of you might be surprised to discover in this context that the GDP contribution of the non-profit sector in Australia is actually on a par with that of the retail industry.

Today, there are as many as 600,000 non-profit organisations in Australia that in 2007 contributed a staggering $43 billion to our GDP, up from $21 billion in 2000. If you incorporate the $15 billion imputed value of its 4.6 million volunteers, there’s no ignoring the fact that non-profits are major economic players. 

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  • Ted Flack says:

    09:26am | 09/11/09

    After the sharing of impressions - the facts: St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland is one example of those not-for-profit organisations that operate “op shops”. It operates 126 Centres across Queensland that provide assistance for those in need and disadvantaged Queenslanders in two ways. Used clothing and second hand household… Read more »

  • Paul Horn says:

    10:58am | 06/11/09

    Er DJ does that also extend to “charitable” tax status? Perhaps you are describing a very different motivation for becoming a “charity”? The line between “not for profit” and “profit’ is becoming increasingly blurred. But I do understand where you are coming from. Read more »

 

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