Chifley Research Centre

The Chifley Research Centre is a think tank run by the Australian Labor Party (ALP). It claims that it "is committed to the advancement of public policy debate and progressive thinking in Australia." 

In reality, the Centre is used by the ALP to funnel donations to the party, as CRC donations are tax-deductible. It is also one of only seven organisations mentioned by name in the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 as tax-deductible gift recipients.

ALP Donations
The Centre donated $37,500 to the ALP in 2004/5. 

Public Funding
The Chifley Research Centre receives regular funding from the Federal Government, the latest being a grant of $100,000 in 2004/5 from the Department of Finance for "For the general expenditure of the centre to enable it to undertake general research into social and economic policies for the benefit of the Australian public." The Government has given the same amount to the Centre in other years as well.

Corporate Funding
The Chifley Research Centre aslo attracts significant private sector funding. Current corporate supporters include: BHP Billiton and Woodside Australian Energy. In 2001/2, BHP donated $85,000 to the Centre. 

Directors

 * Jenny Macklin, MP (Chairperson)
 * Michael Cooney
 * The Hon. Simon Crean, MP
 * Greg Combet
 * Dr. Craig Emerson, MP
 * Senator Chris Evans
 * Dr Michael Fullilove
 * Peter Garrett
 * Kevin Rudd, MP
 * Evan Thornley
 * Tim Gartrell
 * Nick Martin (Secretary)

Contact Details

 * Web: http://www.chifley.org.au/index.php

Other Sourcewatch Resources

 * Think tanks
 * Think tanks/Australia
 * Menzies Research Centre

External Resources

 * Elizabeth Sexton, Resource giants dig deep for think-tanks, February 12 2003.