Department profile
Gilbert + Tobin

Charities

Asia-Pacific Guide 2026 : Australia


Gilbert + Tobin

Rankings

About

Provided by Gilbert + Tobin

Charities

Gilbert + Tobin’s Charities and Social Sector Group provides specialist advice to the charitable and not-for-profit sectors including large and small charities, community organisations, corporate foundations, industry associations and private families and individuals.

Our approach

Our group’s deep knowledge of, and experience in, areas of law that relate specifically to charities and not-for-profit organisations, coupled with our broad corporate expertise, enables us to provide innovative, holistic and strategic legal advice and guidance. We provide a full suite of top-tier experience in areas such as corporate/commercial, tax, intellectual property (including trademarks), finance (including banking and loan agreements), real estate and projects (including leasing), construction, planning and employment. We also have a long-standing and well known commitment to the community through our pro bono practice and CSR initiatives.

Unique service offering

We know about laws, regulations and law reform relating specifically to the charities world in which our clients operate. But being a broad service national firm, we also offer access to our wide range of corporate and commercial expertise. This is a powerful and unique combination allowing us to give an unparalleled service to large charities undertaking complicated and complex transactions while still providing the advice and guidance clients need for all their activities, not just those specific to charities.

Industries (9)

  • Charities/Not for Profit
  • Commercial & Professional Services
  • Education
  • Government
  • Health Care
  • Private Clients/Individuals
  • Software & Computer Services
  • Sports
  • Telecommunications

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Charities - Australia

Band 1

Band 1


What the Team is Known For

Gilbert + Tobin offers a specialist service to the full range of not-for-profit (NFP) clients, including charities of all types and sizes, community organisations, and corporate foundations. The practice provides a broad range of expertise, including advice in relation to the establishment and structuring of charities and NFPs, corporate governance and tax issues. The team is especially valued for its provision of big-picture perspectives on actual and potential policy developments and its readiness to engage with regulatory authorities.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Gilbert + Tobin assisted BDCS with registering as a public benevolent institution with ACNC and to obtain associated tax concessions.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Gilbert + Tobin have a depth and breadth of expertise and experience in nonprofit and charities law and practice. They are a highly professional and knowledgeable team.

    Charities respondentAsia-Pacific
  • Because Gilbert + Tobin have expertise working with not-for-profit organisations, their advice is precise and meticulous. They also have expertise in understanding of what regulators are looking for.

    Charities respondentAsia-Pacific
  • Gilbert + Tobin always look beyond the simple and obvious answer to any question. Instead, they guide the client in their exploration of all of the relevant details.

    Charities respondentAsia-Pacific

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Darren Fittler
    Band 1Darren Fittler

    Darren Fittler

    Darren Fittler heads the firm's charities and social sector practice and takes leading roles on key mandates across its full spectrum of operations. He is based in Sydney.

    • He has a high level of sophistication but also an outstanding ability to explain it to non-lawyers.

      Charities respondentAsia-Pacific
    • Darren stands out for his deep knowledge of not-for-profit law, his approachable and collaborative style, and his consistently high degree of initiative.

      Charities respondentAsia-Pacific
    • Darren Fittler is the leading expert in his field in Australia. He thinks outside the box and ensures the best result for the client.

      Charities respondentAsia-Pacific
    • He is simply excellent in his knowledge and people skills and is a pleasure to work with.

      Charities respondentAsia-Pacific
  • Up and ComingElizabeth Wighton
    Up and ComingElizabeth Wighton

    Elizabeth Wighton

    Elizabeth Wighton is special counsel at the firm's charities and social sector practice. She frequently advises clients on regulatory as well as corporate/M&A transactions. She is very well versed in both domestic and international matters.

    • Elizabeth has shown a dedication to our work and an understanding of our business context, which has been truly impressive.

      Charities respondentAsia-Pacific
    • Elizabeth is reliable, accurate and diligent in her support and advice.

      Charities respondentAsia-Pacific
    • Elizabeth was professional, polite, responsive and knowledgeable in her dealing with us.

      Charities respondentAsia-Pacific

Ranked Individuals at Gilbert + Tobin (2)

Australia

Members

Provided by Gilbert + Tobin

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