Frequently Asked Questions - Mary MacKillop Today

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Mary MacKillop Today?

Through Mary MacKillop Today the vision of Australia's first Saint and the Sisters of Saint Joseph is being realised. In the spirit of Mary MacKillop we work in partnership to help create generational change through the teaching of practical life skills.

Does Mary MacKillop Today only help Catholic People?

No. Mary MacKillop Today is committed to the realisation of the dignity of all. We help people help themselves, regardless of ethnicity, political beliefs, gender or religion.

What is Ethica?

Ethica is our fair trade company which specialises in producing quality products produced by women in Peru. You can find out more about Ethica here.

Does Mary MacKillop Today receive funding from the Australia Government?

Mary MacKillop Today is accredited by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), responsible for managing the Australian Government’s aid program. To maintain accreditation, Mary MacKillop Today’s systems, policies and processes are rigorously reviewed by the Australian Government. Mary MacKillop Today receives support through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).

Is Mary MacKillop Today a signatory of the ACFID Code of Conduct?

Yes, Mary MacKillop Today is a signatory to the ACFID Code of Conduct. ACFID is the Australian Council for International Development and is the coordinating body for non-government overseas aid and international development organisations in Australia.

This Code identifies standards which enhance the integrity, transparency and accountability of organisations and their activities. As a self-regulatory and sector wide Code, the signing on by international development organisations is voluntary, although it is a requirement of ACFID membership. Compliance to the standards is tested predominantly through compliance monitoring of annual and financial reporting requirements, annual self-assessment and the investigation of complaints.

If you believe Mary MacKiilop Today has breached the ACFID Code of Conduct, you can lodge a complaint on the ACFID website.

How do I give feedback or make a complaint about Mary MacKillop Today?

At Mary MacKillop Today we encourage our supporters, program participants, partners and other internal and external stakeholders, whether in Australia or abroad, to share their feedback with us, including any complaints or concerns.

To ask a question, give feedback or make a complaint about Mary MacKillop Today you can email us, phone +61 2 8912 2777 or post us a letter (PO Box 1646 North Sydney 2049). We will respond to you within 5 days. A copy of our full complaints policy can be found here. If you believe Mary MacKillop Today has breached the ACFID Code of Conduct, you can lodge a complaint on the ACFID website.

I would like to work and/or volunteer with Mary MacKillop Today. What jobs are available?

To work for us you must have a passion for justice, for people, and a belief in a world free from poverty. Head here for positions vacant and volunteer opportunities.

Does Mary MacKillop Today send Australian volunteers overseas?

Mary MacKillop Today is committed to utilising and building local knowledge and skills and therefore we do not normally send volunteers overseas.

What types of programs does Mary MacKillop Today support and where?

Mary MacKillop Today supports programs with women, men and children here in Australia and Internationally. Our programs are designed, implemented and evaluated by our local staff and partners who are best placed to identify the needs and problems of their own communities.

We aim to help the poorest of the poor realise their dignity through our diverse programs. Programs include: Teacher education, literacy, Financial Inclusion, Indigenous Scholarships, Disability support, women’s leadership and livelihoods training.

Why does Mary MacKillop Today spend money on administration?

Mary MacKillop Today is committed to demonstrating good stewardship of funds. Your funds help to support an efficient and effective organisation dedicated to keeping our administration and fundraising costs as low as possible.

Administration fees allow us to comply with Australian Government Funding, Taxation and OH&S Requirements, all of which are essential for a sustainable and accountable organisation. They also allow us to meet the requirements of the ACFID Code of Conduct. This level of accountability and transparency gives you the peace of mind to know that your donation is being used how you intended – to provide communities in Australia and across the globe with life-giving assistance

Are my gifts to Mary MacKillop Today tax deductible?

Donations of $2 and over to our Development Projects are tax-deductible.