3.1.2.2. Review of your By Laws

When Clubs and Branches are reviewing and updating their Constitutions and By-Laws, it is essential that a Changes Register is maintained throughout the process.

A Changes Register is a simple but vital document that clearly outlines all proposed amendments. It typically includes:

• The original clause number and wording
• The proposed amended clause wording
• A brief rationale for the change
  

Why is this important?

1. Transparency – It ensures that all stakeholders, including members, Branches, and SLSQ, can clearly see what changes are being proposed and why.
2. Consistency – It supports alignment with the model constitution, SLSQ constitutional requirements, and relevant legislation (e.g. Associations Incorporation Act 1981 (Qld)).
3. Efficiency – It allows reviewers to assess proposed changes quickly and accurately, avoiding the need to compare entire documents line-by-line.
4. Record Keeping – It creates an audit trail of amendments for future reference and assists incoming committees in understanding the evolution of the Club or Branch’s governance framework.
   

SLSQ Requirement
Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) will not review or approve any draft Constitutions or By-Laws unless they are accompanied by a comprehensive Changes Register. This is to ensure consistency in governance practices across the organisation and to support Clubs and Branches in complying with their legal and constitutional obligations.

A Changes Register template is located HERE.