Running the organisation

There are many elements to running a not-for-profit - some required by law, and others reflective of good governance principles. 

Running the organisation
Finding information on the legal aspects of running a not-for-profit can be difficult. This topic provides information on common legal aspects of running an organisation from running meetings to record keeping.

Most community organisations have some fundamental characteristics in common. They have a set of rules or constitution that describes how the organisation is run. They may have policies as well.

They are run by a board or committee that is made up of people appointed or elected in accordance with the group's rules. The committee sets the strategy for the group and makes certain decisions. The committee reports to members, who vote on certain decisions (like whether or not to change the rules of the group). The committee is also responsible for reporting to the government about the group's activities.

This topic deals with the internal aspects of running a not-for-profit, including:

  • the roles and legal duties of committee members and office holders
  • holding meetings
  • keeping proper records, and
  • using and changing the rules or constitution of a not-for-profit.

The secretary's satchel is a comprehensive guide for the Secretary of an incorporated association (currently only available for Victorian incorporated associations).