A New Era for Child Players ACT: Announcing Our Transition to a Registered Charity

Written By Apple User

After 21 years of operating as a local grassroots organisation, receiving both ACNC registered charity status and full DGR endorsement is the ultimate milestone. This rare dual recognition from the Australian Government is a massive badge of honour for our theatre family.

To be approved under the prestigious 'Culture' subtype officially recognises 21 years of dedication, hard work, and deep community impact, and means our children's theatre company has been formally recognised as a vital contributor to Australia’s cultural landscape. This status serves as a powerful testament to the thousands of hours our team, families, and young performers have dedicated to the arts. It acknowledges that what we do extends far beyond putting on shows; it proves that our programs are essential community services that actively enrich lives, foster social connection, and shape the well-being of the next generation.

 Securing DGR status is difficult for arts organisations, making this achievement an incredible victory. The Australian Government has rigorously reviewed our work and officially recognised that our children’s theatre company is an essential cultural asset to our community. It proves that our 21-year track record of helping children build self-confidence and find their unique voices is recognised as a vital public good. This dual status doesn't just celebrate our past; it validates that our mission and vision:

Mission

  • To provide a positive environment that supports inclusive, audition-free, and welcoming performing arts programs that remove traditional barriers to entry for all young people.

Vision

  • A community where every child feels safe to express themselves, build lifelong confidence and empowerment, develop a sense of identity and agency, and gain life skills nurtured through positive theatre experiences.  

 Looking Ahead: Our Ongoing Mission & The 2027 Scholarship Fund

Our vision, mission, and goal remains unchanged. We are committed to ensuring that ALL children can experience the profound cognitive, social, and emotional benefits of participation in theatre. We passionately believe that financial barriers should never stand in the way of a child's creativity or personal growth.

While our immediate focus is opening the doors to our new studio, this space will serve as the foundation for our next major milestone. In 2027, we will officially launch our ongoing Scholarship Program. This initiative will reduce financial barriers permanently, ensuring that any child who wants to participate can do so, regardless of their background or financial circumstances.

What Our New Charity Status Means for You

Because we now hold DGR status, every donation to our theatre company is completely tax-deductible. This transforms how you can support our mission:

  • Tax Benefits: Your generosity directly reduces your taxable income while directly funding youth arts.

  • Immediate Impact: Every dollar raised right now will go directly toward:

    • Fitting out our new drama studio, opening in December 2026.

    • Our Scholarship Program, launching in 2027.  

  • Corporate & Philanthropic Partnerships: We can now partner with major foundations and corporate sponsors to support our mission.

How Our Theatre Families Can Help Right Now

As a family-focused community theatre company,  our families are our greatest advocates. We need your help to spread the word and unlock these new funding opportunities:

  • Do you own or manage a business? Consider becoming a foundational corporate sponsor for our new drama studio opening. It is a fantastic opportunity to build your brand profile locally while securing a 100% tax deduction for your business. All businesses who sponsor us will be featured on our “Thanks for your Support” wall in the new drama studio.

  • Introduce us to your network: If your employer has a charitable matching program, a workplace giving fund, or a community grants scheme, please let us know or introduce BJ to your HR or sustainability department.

  • Advocate in the community: Connect us with local business owners, real estate agents, or community leaders you know who are passionate about supporting local youth, arts, and mental well-being. A warm introduction from a trusted parent opens doors faster than any cold email!

Help Us Build Our New Home

We need our community's help to cross the finish line and get our studio ready for late 2026.

Thank you for supporting us for the last 21 incredible years. Let's build the next chapter together!


Apple User
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