Clubs and Branch can change their constitution by following the amendment process set out in their existing constitution. The exact process for amending a constitution can vary depending on the club and its specific requirements, but the following general steps may be involved:
| Formalise a working group | The Club or Branch should formalise a working group that included Board and members to ensure the process is covered by all members |
| Review the existing constitution | Before making any changes to the constitution, a Club or Branch should review the existing document to understand the requirements for amending it. This may include identifying the specific provisions that need to be changed, the process for proposing and approving amendments, and any other relevant information |
| Develop a proposal | Once the a Club or Branch has identified the changes it wants to make to the constitution, it should develop a proposal outlining the specific changes and the reasons for making them |
| Obtain approval from relevant parties | The proposal to amend the constitution may need to be approved, depending on the requirements set out in the existing constitution, The Board, Management Committee, Members or other stakeholders. |
| Notify relevant parties | Once the proposal has been approved, a Club or Branch should notify SLSQ, relevant Branch and external stakeholder (Councils, ACNC, OFT) of the proposed changes and the process for voting on the amendments |
| Hold a vote | The Club or Branch should hold a vote to approve the proposed amendments. The exact process for voting may vary depending on the a Club or Branch’s requirements, but it should be conducted in accordance with the procedures set out in the existing constitution. |
| Amend the constitution | the proposed amendments are approved, the Club or Branch should formally amend the constitution by updating the document with the new provisions. This may involve filing the updated constitution with the relevant external parties (ACNC/ OFT/ ASIC) and be forwarded to SLSQ to hold on file |
NOTE: Once Approved and after AGM:
- You need to lodge the change with OFT
- The Club cannot run off these rules until OFT approves them
- Once approved – update the following
- Your Website (members must have access)
- ACNC – must have the current rules
- SLSQ (send SLSQ the final approved document)
Once your new constitution is approved by the Office of Fair Trading. Generally, it’s advisable to implement the new constitution in its entirety as soon as possible to ensure governance aligns with the approved changes.
However, if there’s significant organisational change, such as reducing the management committee from 9 to 5 members, it might be practical to follow a transitional approach. This approach would maintain the current committee setup until the end of the next season, providing stability while preparations are made for the new structure. This method also allows members to adapt to changes gradually and ensures that the transition is in line with any electoral cycles or operational timelines specified in the new constitution.
Refer to SLSQ Club Management App for further information.
Feedback
Post your comment on this topic.