Australia has a long history of volunteers governing our services. There have been some significant changes in recent years that have professionalized our sector, increasing some volunteer roles and responsibilities. Some services have chosen to offer committee members payment to recognize their contribution. Offering remuneration can demonstrate to your committee that their work is valued. It can also increase their commitment to their responsibilities for your service. 

It is a good idea to discuss with your committee and consider your ability to offer some form of financial consideration. You may be able to offer a small amount towards out-of-pocket expenses like phone calls and printing, or pay for expenses for those attending committee meetings. If it’s for a particular skilled role, then you may wish to consider a larger amount. You might also consider offering remuneration to certain positions, such as your office-bearers. There are some legal considerations as well. You might be asking, “Can nonprofits and charities “pay committee members?” 

There might be circumstances, such as a clause in your constitution or the way you pay committee members that may prevent you from remunerating them. To be clear, you are quite within your rights to reimburse volunteers for legitimate pre-approved expenses. You need to be aware, however, this is different from a payment for services or remuneration for work.