The ACCR is a not-for-profit association whose mission is to promote informed shareholder engagement and advocacy for more just and sustainable corporate activity. They research corporate activity and assist people to use the research. They promote ethical investment. They aim to empower stakeholders in corporate Australasia.
ACCR was formed when a group of concerned organisations and individuals observed the healthy influence on corporate democracy of organisations operating in other countries with missions like the ACCR. There was no similar organisation in Australia or New Zealand. But, for example, a similar organisation in the US, the Interfaith Centre on Corporate Responsibility, has been operating for over 40 years.
What does the ACCR do?
Firstly, it conducts research on issues of corporate behaviour of concern to members. Such issues might include corporate governance and executive pay, environmental damage caused by corporate activity, product health issues, human rights and staff health and safety, use of corporate funds for lobbying or political purposes, disclosure of environmental and social impact.
Secondly, it assists members engage with companies in which they own shares on issues that concern them. It may also assist them request that companies distribute statements to all their shareholders or place resolutions on meeting agendas.
Thirdly, it is an advocate for improved corporate law and practice in regard the rights of shareholders to have issues addressed.
What doesn't the ACCR do?
The ACCR is not an investment manager itself. They don't provide financial advice.
What sort of issues will the ACCR engage companies on?
The following examples are engagement themes pursued by organisations like the ACCR in the US and Europe in recent years:
