Governance
Governance
Good governance is the foundation of a successful community club. Whether you're new to the committee or a returning member, having the right structures, processes and accountability in place is what allows your club to thrive — on and off the field.
What is Good Governance?
Governance refers to the systems, processes and rules by which clubs are directed and controlled. It covers how decisions are made, who holds responsibility, and how your club's mission and values are upheld. Effective governance builds trust with members, volunteers and external stakeholders — and protects everyone involved.
Planning for Good Governance
High-performing committees don't leave governance to chance. There are eight key areas every committee should have in place:
- Committee Structures — Establish the constitutional structure of your management committee and any sub-committees, so everyone knows how decisions flow and who is responsible for what.
- Roles & Responsibilities — Every committee member should have a clear role, defined purpose and individual accountability. This reduces overlap, prevents gaps, and helps volunteers feel confident in their position.
- Charters & Authorities — Document the parameters within which your committee can act and make decisions. This protects the club and keeps decision-making efficient and transparent.
- Financial Controls — Put strong financial practices in place, including budgeting, banking procedures and appropriate oversight. Good financial governance protects the club and its volunteers.
- Strategic Direction — Look to the future to inform your operational priorities. A clear strategic direction helps your committee focus on what matters most for your club's long-term health.
- Policies & Standards — Ensure all Rugby Australia policies and procedures are understood and followed at your club. Policies set the standard for behaviour, safety and inclusion.
- Meeting Structure — Balance strategy vs. operations, and discussion vs. decision-making. Well-run meetings respect volunteers' time and drive real outcomes.
- Action/Decision Register — Maintain a register of all committee decisions and assigned actions. Accountability and follow-through are what turn good intentions into results.
State and Territory Incorporation Resources
Governance and incorporation legislation varies across states and territories. Use the links below to access your local regulatory body, and reach out to your Club Development Manager if you need help navigating the requirements specific to your region.
- ACT & Southern New South Wales - Jack Heffernan - Jack.Heffernan@rugby.com.au
- New South Wales - Juniors - Dylan Deep-Jones - Dylan.Deepjones@rugby.com.au
- New South Wales - Seniors - Michael Flude - Michael.Flude@rugby.com.au
- Queensland, Greater & Northern Territory - Matt Kaye - Matt.Kaye@rugby.com.au
- Queensland South - John Butterworth - John.Butterworth@rugby.com.au
- South Australia - Rose Jackson - Rose.Jackson@sa.rugby
- Victoria & Tasmania - Sean Walker - Sean.Walker@rugby.com.au
- Western Australia - Monique Day-Smith - Monique.Daysmith@rugby.com.au
State and Territory Governance/ Incorporation Resources
Governance legislation is managed differently across states and territories. Click below to access your local body for club incorporation and governance support:
- ACT – Access Canberra – Incorporated Associations
- NSW – NSW Fair Trading – Associations
- NT – Licensing NT – Associations
- QLD – Queensland Government – Incorporating an Association
- SA – Consumer and Business Services SA – Associations
- TAS – Consumer, Building and Occupational Services Tasmania – Associations
- VIC – Consumer Affairs Victoria – Incorporated Associations
- WA – Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety WA – Associations
Additional Support Resources
Here are some additional resources to support your club’s governance journey:
- Sports Governance – Play by the Rules: Information, case studies, and tools to help create fair, safe and inclusive environments.
- Sport Governance and Organisational Enhancement – Australian Sports Commission: National principles and practical guides for sport organisations of all sizes.
- New South Wales Guides
