What's in a Constitution?

In simple terms the constitution is a set of predetermined rules for your organisation. Outlining your objectives and purpose and how your organisation and its members should operate. It provides a framework for decision making and policies and procedures. 

It also contains information on meetings, financial management, how the committee should be made up and elected, and other key issues. The act requires your constitution to have a minimum number of clauses as set out in schedule one of the act. Your constitution is a legally binding document and it is essential that it’s kept up to date, and that the entire committee is aware of this document and it’s contents, and that they stick to the rules it sets out for your organisation. 

So it is essential that all members, particularly you and other committee members, receive, read and understand your centre’s constitution before they start their term of office.