Model rules to assist associations
Issue Date: - Tuesday, 11 December 2007
Incorporated associations are being asked to help develop a set of guidelines to assist new and established groups to operate their organisations.
The development of a set of model “Rules of Association” is part of the review of the law governing 15,000 incorporated associations in Western Australia.
The “Rules of Association”, often referred to as a constitution, set out how an association operates.
Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said the Associations Incorporation Bill 2006 (the Green Bill) was released to the public in November last year with the majority of submissions welcoming the suggested amendments.
“Incorporated associations were actively involved in the review providing valuable input into how proposed changes can assist associations of all sizes to meet the challenges of the future,” Mr Walker said.
“Associations are a vital part of our community providing not-for-profit community events, activities and services that touch the lives of Western Australians every day. They range from local sport clubs and mothers’ groups to major charities, hospitals and health funds with operating budgets just as wide and varied.
“The next step in this consultation is to develop a template which will provide guidance on common issues facing associations today. These challenges include handling internal disputes and use of the membership register,” Mr Walker said.
“One of the strengths of incorporated associations is that members decide how the association is run. We want to support that by providing simple guidelines for associations who need to update their constitution and for those wanting to establish a new association.”
Association members can be involved in the development of these draft rules by completing an online feedback form by Friday 29 February 2008 or participating in information sessions. Members may also nominate to be selected to take part in a special Delegate’s Forum.
To obtain a copy of the Draft Model Rules, Reader’s Guide, or Nomination Form, or to read a summary of the Green Bill submissions called “Your Views in Summary” go to www.docep.wa.gov.au/agb <http://www.docep.wa.gov.au/agb> or call 1300 30 40 54. Copies of these documents will be available at your local library from January 2008.