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NSW: Keep up philanthropy, Rudd appeals to business


20 Apr 2009 2:32 AM

KEVIN RUDD has appealed to corporate Australia not to turn off the philanthropic tap .. despite the economic downturn.

Opening the Australian Davos Connection's Philanthropy Summit in Sydney last night .. the prime minister said corporate charity will be central to helping individuals and communities in their struggle with the global recession.

He says with unemployment on the rise .. and the need for charity exacerbated by disasters like the Victorian bushfires .. corporate leaders need to work with governments to help needy communities.

He's noted a contraction in corporate philanthropy since the economic downturn .. and has appealed to both small and large businesses to reverse the trend.

The Philanthropy Summit will be held in Sydney today.

AAP RTV ab/tm/psm/