There are also new model rules under the AIR Act - and for groups using the model rules under the old Act, the new model rules will automatically apply on 26 November 2013. You can read the new model rules here.
Groups using their own rules do not have to change their rules, but since the reforms commenced (in late 2012) there are two important consequences that mean groups need to update their rules:
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- if rules do not cover a newly required Scheduled Item, the relevant new model rule that deals with the item not covered by your rules will automatically apply to your organisation. This means that if you follow your own rules without considering the new Scheduled Items, your association may not be complying with its rules or the law, and
- if rules are inconsistent with the AIR Act, the inconsistent rule/s will be invalid. If invalid rules are followed (even inadvertently) by an association, this will be a technical breach of the law.
The processes described above can be very confusing and make an organisation's own rules unworkable. For this reason, groups using their own rules need to update their rules to ensure they are a complete document reflecting the rules of the association and are consistent with the requirements of the AIR Act.
The deadline for updating the rules is November 26, 2013. The ORCV plan is to pass a special resolution at the AGM to adopt new rules. A draft is detailed below with the intention of presnting a final proposal for consideration by members early next month.
Consultation Period
The ORCV committee has examined the current constitution ( Rules) and has revised them with the intent of satisfying the AIR Act requirements whilst preserving the current ORCV practices. Of particular note is formalising the current practice of flag officers have 2 years in office before replacement / progress.
This revision has been achieved by utilising a formally prepared set of compliant rules and adapting them where appropriate to the ORCV membership structure and practice.
ORCV has attached below three documents:
- the Existing Rules,
- the proposed new Constitution (Rules) and a
- checklist of the requirements for the rules.
Before presenting the new Constitution to members for a formal vote, the documents are listed here for two weeks of consultation.
Please forward comments ASAP to
