questions and answers

What is the Riverview Trust?

The Riverview Trust is an 'umbrella' under which we have grouped our tax deductible and non-tax deductible giving areas, which are outreach initiatives of Riverview Church

Why has Building God's House been removed from the Riverview Trust?

Our vision for the future of Riverview Church is, and has always been, large. As our Church grows, so does the need to build our 'earthly' buildings to make room for more people. The removal of Building God's House from the Riverview Trust signifies the beginning of a new phase in Riverview's story. As such, we believe it is important that our congregation is aware of our plans and for them to understand our need for generous giving.

Is giving to the Riverview Trust more important than giving to Building God's House?

The short answer is no. Both the Riverview Trust and Building God's House are vital to seeing our mission, to reach the community, met. We believe and have faith that there are a number of people in our congregation who will have a heart for Building God's House, just as there are those who faithfully give to the Trust. We are asking that the Riverview Trust and Building God's House are not seen as an either/or option, but that the generosity of our Church family is great enough to see both flourish.

Who determines how the funds are distributed?

The Senior Minister and Leadership Team develop an annual budget and plan for the Church, the Trust and Building God's House, based on anticipated income and donations. The budget reflects the plans, activities and needs of all departments and initiatives of the Church. Although these plans and budgets are made conservatively, there is a great deal of faith and expectation for God and us to achieve far more than anticipated. As another point of accountability, all annual plans and budgets are approved by the Board of Trustees, the results of which are followed through annually.

Are funds equally distributed between areas?

No. The funds received into the Trust are not equally allocated, as areas do not require equal amounts to function. Each area has different needs, different income sources and different seasons of need, which are all carefully evaluated by the Senior Minister and Leadership Team and then incorporated within the annual plan and budget. In our current planning, approximately half of funds are distributed to 'Evangelism and Funding the Gospel', and half to 'Caring for the Poor' and 'Serving the Community'.

Am I able to find out more details about the distribution of funds?

As a 'Church Partner' you will be able to access the Annual Report, including audited financial statements, in the upcoming 'Partner Only' section of the Riverview Church website or contact our Finance Office.

Is my giving to the Riverview Trust tax deductible?

Yes. In Australia 80% of your giving will be tax deductible. No less than 80% of all monies are given towards tax deductible initiatives and no more that 20% is given to the non-tax deductible areas.

In the USA, 100% of your giving will be tax deductible.

Additionally, this tax benefit creates the potential for each of us to give more. We encourage you to contact an accountant should you need further advice in this area.

Why do we have the Miracle Offering Weekend?

Having a weekend dedicated to the finalisation of giving commitments to the Riverview Trust gives people participating an opportunity to complete their personal commitment for that financial year. It also enables those who choose to give a lump sum on a once-off basis, the opportunity to do so before the end of the financial year.

Why do you need my personal details? I wish to remain anonymous.

You can remain anonymous. This simply means you forego the tax deductibility of your gift.

When are tax receipts issued for my giving to the Riverview Trust?

Tax receipts will be issued on a monthly basis.

Are special envelopes available for the Riverview Trust?

Yes. You can use these for cash, cheque and credit card giving, as well as to establish automatic giving from your credit card or bank account, and to request information on B-Pay.

Who should I make my cheques payable to?

The Riverview Trust.

Will my commitment be kept confidential?

Yes. Our Board of Trustees and Leadership Team will only receive figures based on total amounts committed. Only our Finance Team will have access to actual giving records for the purpose of generating tax receipts.

How frequently should I give towards fulfilling my commitment?

Some people like to give weekly, fortnightly or monthly. Others like to fulfil their giving in one lump sum.

I am interested in leaving money to the Riverview Trust in my Will, is this possible?

Yes. If you want to make The Riverview Trust a beneficiary in your Will, please contact the Finance Department at the church office for more information on the steps you need to take.

I am interested in making the Riverview Trust a beneficiary in my Family Trust, is this possible?

Yes. If you want to make distributions to The Riverview Trust from your Family Trust, please contact the Finance Department at the church office for more information on the steps you need to take.

If you would like assistance or further information about the Riverview Trust, please contact the Finance Team at the church office.