Governance, Constitution & By-Laws
Our Constitution and By-Laws provide the framework for responsible leadership, transparent decision-making, membership, financial accountability and the effective management of DAMS Organizations International.
Our Governance Commitment
DAMS Organizations International is committed to operating with integrity, accountability, fairness and respect. Our governance framework defines our purpose, leadership responsibilities, membership arrangements, decision-making procedures and standards of conduct.
Transparency
We communicate our leadership structure, responsibilities and decision-making procedures clearly.
Accountability
Our leaders are expected to act in good faith and in the best interests of the organisation.
Integrity
Board members, officers, employees and volunteers are expected to follow appropriate ethical and professional standards.
Compliance
Our activities are guided by our Constitution, By-Laws, approved policies and applicable requirements.
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To provide holistic support to children, young people and communities experiencing disability, disadvantage or other challenges; support people in need; promote education, justice, peace, community wellbeing and equal opportunity; and deliver humanitarian and faith-based initiatives.
Our Vision
A world where every person is empowered to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society, and where justice, dignity, equality, freedom, peace and mutual support prevail.
Key Governance Areas
Our Constitution and By-Laws address the main responsibilities, structures and procedures needed for the effective governance of the organisation.
Organisational Purpose
Defines the organisation’s name, mission, vision, objectives, identity and areas of community service.
Board Governance
Establishes the responsibilities, powers, conduct and oversight duties of the Board of Directors.
Country Management
Explains the role of Country Executive Bodies and Management Committees in local operations and program delivery.
Membership
Covers membership eligibility, participation, responsibilities, subscriptions, resignation and termination.
Meetings & Decisions
Provides procedures for general meetings, notices, voting, resolutions, proxies and official records.
Financial Accountability
Addresses financial records, authorised payments, reporting, audits and the responsible use of organisational resources.
Our Governance Structure
Our structure supports strategic oversight, country-level management and the responsible delivery of programs, projects and services.
Governance Summary
The following information provides a reader-friendly overview of the organisation’s governance framework, rules and procedures.
Board Responsibilities and Standards of Conduct
Board members are responsible for strategic direction, governance oversight and decisions made in the best interests of DAMS Organizations International.
- Act honestly, carefully and in good faith.
- Understand the Constitution, By-Laws and applicable requirements.
- Avoid improper use of position or organisational information.
- Protect the reputation, resources and interests of the organisation.
- Attend meetings and participate responsibly in decisions.
Membership Eligibility and Responsibilities
Membership may be available to individuals and organisations that support the mission, objectives and values of DAMS Organizations International.
- Submit an application for review and approval.
- Support the organisation’s mission and objectives.
- Follow the Constitution, By-Laws and approved policies.
- Participate respectfully in organisational activities.
- Meet any applicable membership requirements.
Meetings and Decision-Making
Formal meetings support transparent decision-making and proper organisational recordkeeping.
- Annual General Meetings and Special General Meetings.
- Appropriate notice before meetings.
- Quorum, voting and proxy procedures.
- Accurate minutes and records of resolutions.
- Use of technology where permitted.
Financial Management and Accountability
Organisational funds and property must be managed carefully, transparently and for approved purposes.
- Maintain complete and accurate financial records.
- Deposit funds into approved organisational accounts.
- Authorise expenditure through the correct procedures.
- Prepare required financial statements and reports.
- Arrange auditing or independent review where required.
Complaints, Misconduct and Dispute Resolution
Complaints and disputes should be managed fairly, respectfully and according to established procedures.
- Provide parties with an opportunity to respond.
- Attempt internal resolution where appropriate.
- Use mediation where required.
- Communicate decisions and appeal options clearly.
- Protect confidentiality as far as reasonably possible.
Employees, Volunteers and Project Teams
People representing the organisation are expected to behave professionally and protect the people and communities served by DAMS Organizations International.
- Act respectfully and without discrimination.
- Follow safeguarding and safety requirements.
- Maintain privacy and confidentiality.
- Use organisational property and information appropriately.
- Report serious concerns through the proper channels.
Conflicts of Interest
Board members, officers, employees and volunteers should disclose interests that could affect, or appear to affect, objective decision-making.
- Declare actual, potential or perceived conflicts.
- Record declarations in meeting minutes where relevant.
- Do not participate in decisions where a conflict applies.
- Place the organisation’s interests ahead of personal benefit.
Winding Up and Surplus Assets
If the organisation is wound up, any remaining assets must be managed according to its governing framework, applicable requirements and not-for-profit purpose.
Surplus assets must not be distributed to individual members for personal benefit.
Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners
DAMS Organizations International acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities.
We pay our respects to First Nations Elders past and present and acknowledge emerging leaders who continue the strength and continuity of culture for future generations.
Have a Governance Question?
Contact DAMS Organizations International for questions about governance, Board leadership, membership, organisational procedures or community participation.