THE NSW Government is urging people to remain vigilant when donating to flood recovery efforts.
As communities recover and rebuild, authorities are warning that scammers may attempt to exploit the situation through fake fundraising appeals.
NSW Fair Trading is reminding the public to take simple precautions to ensure their donations are going to legitimate causes.
This includes checking the charity is registered and has a valid fundraising authority, and being cautious of unsolicited donation requests via phone, email, or social media.
Scammers often impersonate well-known charities or create fake websites and social media pages to deceive people into giving money.
These scams can be particularly convincing in the aftermath of natural disasters, when emotions are high and the desire to help is strong.
Consumers are encouraged to:
Check the charity’s registration on the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission website;
Look up the organisation on the NSW Fair Trading Charitable Fundraising Register;
Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages or emails; and
Report suspected scams to Scam Watch or contact NSW Fair Trading.
The NSW Government continues to work closely with local councils and community organisations to support recovery efforts.
People looking to donate items such as food or clothing or make a financial contribution are also encouraged to visit the GIVIT website.
GIVIT is a non-profit organisation partnering with the NSW Government to support communities impacted by flooding and ensure support reaches those who need it most.
People should not collect, send, or drop off donations in disaster-affected areas.
Despite the best intentions, unsolicited goods can overwhelm recovery operations and divert resources away from critical tasks.
For NSW Government resources to help you during and after floods, visit the NSW Fair Trading website.
For more information on fundraising for a disaster, visit the Fundraising for a disaster web page.
To donate through GIVIT, please visit New South Wales Flooding web page.
Acting Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Paul Scully generosity shown by people across New South Wales in response to the floods has already been extraordinary.
“But sadly, we know that scammers are quick to take advantage of these moments,” he said.
“A few simple checks can make all the difference in ensuring your support goes to those who truly need it.
“We want to make sure that every dollar donated goes to helping people rebuild their lives and not into the hands of fraudsters,” he said.
Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said in the wake of natural disasters, people from all around the state want to lend a hand.
“But we want to make sure support is reaching those who need it most and not getting in the way of the recovery effort,” she said.
“Please do not send or drop off donations in disaster affected areas. We appreciate that people want to help, but often it just gets in the way.
“Please consider donating through a reputable charity you feel comfortable with.”
