Offshore & Specialist Ships Australia
DGR status, Constitution & Certificate
Link to our Constitution:
Offshore and Specialist Ships Australia Constitution Ltd.
CONSTITUTIONOFOffshore and Specialist Ships Australia Ltd.
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Australian Company Number (ACN) 624 185 217 Australian Business Number (ABN) 57 624 185 217 A company limited by guarantee |
Table of contents
Preliminary
- Name of the company
- Type of company
- Limited liability of members
- The guarantee
- Definitions
Charitable purposes and powers
- Object
- Powers
- Not-for-profit
- Amending the constitution
Members
- Membership and register of members
- Who can be a member
- How to apply to become a member
- Directors decide whether to approve membership
- When a person becomes a member
- When a person stops being a member
Dispute resolution and disciplinary procedures
- Dispute resolution
- Disciplining members
General meetings of members
- General meetings called by directors
- General meetings called by members
- Annual general meeting
- Notice of general meetings
- Quorum at general meetings
- Auditor’s right to attend meetings
- Representatives of members
- Using technology to hold meetings
- Chairperson for general meetings
- Role of the chairperson
- Adjournment of meetings
Members’ resolutions and statements
- Members’ resolutions and statements
- Company must give notice of proposed resolution or distribute statement
- Circular resolutions of members
Voting at general meetings
- How many votes a member has
- Challenge to member’s right to vote
- How voting is carried out
- When and how a vote in writing must be held
- Appointment of proxy
- Voting by proxy
Directors
- Number of directors
- Election and appointment of directors
- Election of chairperson
- Term of office
- When a director stops being a director
Powers of directors
- Powers of directors
- Delegation of directors’ powers
- Payments to directors
- Execution of Documents
Duties of directors
- Duties of directors
- Conflicts of interest
Directors’ meetings
- When the directors meet
- Calling directors’ meetings
- Chairperson for directors’ meetings
- Quorum at directors’ meetings
- Using technology to hold directors’ meetings
- Passing directors’ resolutions
- Circular resolutions of directors
Secretary
- Appointment and role of secretary
Minutes and records
- Minutes and records
- Financial and related records
By-laws
- By-laws
Notice
- What is notice
- Notice to the company
- Notice to members
- When notice is taken to be given
Financial year
- Company’s financial year
Indemnity, insurance and access
- Indemnity
- Insurance
- Directors’ access to documents
Winding up
- Surplus assets not to be distributed to members
- Distribution of surplus assets
Definitions and interpretation
- Definitions
- Reading this constitution with the Corporations Act
- Interpretation
Preliminary
- Name of the company
The name of the Company is Offshore and Specialist Ships Australia Ltd(the company).
- Type of company.
The companyis a not-for-profit public companylimited by guarantee which is established to be, and to continue as, a charity.
- Limited liability of members.
The liability of members is limited to the amount of the guarantee in clause 4.
- The guarantee.
Each member must contribute an amount not more than $100 (the guarantee) to the property of the company ifthe company is wound up while the member is a member, or within 12 months after they stop being a member, andthis contribution is required to pay for the:
- debts and liabilities of the companyincurred before the member stopped being a member, or
- costs of winding up.
- Definitions
In this constitution, words and phrases have the meaning set out in clauses 70and 72.
Charitable purposes and powers
- Object
The company’s object is to pursue the following charitable purpose(s):
To acquire, preserve, restore memorabiliahistoric artefacts and documentation of the offshore and specialist ships sector of the Australian Maritime Industry (Artefacts) for the purpose of creating a Museum of Artefacts available to the general public and, pursuant to this object:
- To preserve and promote, the culture and heritage of the offshore and specialist shipping sector of Australia’s maritime industry past, present and future.
- To research, design, build, exhibit replicas of historic offshore and specialist ships and boats for the benefit and enjoyment of all Australians.
- To promote, encourage and assist in the preservation and restoration of historic offshore and specialist ships and boats throughout Australia.
- To collect, preserve and exhibit items of maritime historical interest related to offshore and specialist ships.
- To promote and encourage interest in and knowledge of Australia’s offshore and specialistships history.
- To compile and keep a record of Australia’s offshore and specialist shipping history.
- To collect, verify and publish information regarding Australia’s Offshore Maritime History.
- To promote. encourage and assist in the establishment and growth of Maritime Museums throughout Australia.
- Topromote, encourage and assist in the preservation and restoration of historic and environmentally important landmarks, buildings and structures relating to Australia’s offshore maritime history throughout Australia.
- Powers
- Subject to clause 8, the company has the following powers, which may only be used to carry out its purpose(s) set out in clause 6:
- the powers of an individual, and
- all the powers of a companylimited by guarantee under the Corporations Act.
- Without limiting sub-Rule 7.1, the Company may exercise the following powers, which may only be used to carry out its purpose(s) set out in clause 6:
- Print, publish, sell, distribute and circulate books and other publications and items of any and every kind as are calculated to promote and advance the objects and purposes of the Company;
- Produce, acquire, sell and serve food, beverages, refreshments and confectionery of any and every kind calculated to promote and advance the objects and purposes of the Company;
- Establish and maintain a library both reference and circulating;
- Take such steps as from time to time may be deemed expedient for the purpose of procuring grants, subscriptions and contributions to the funds of the Company;
- Purchase or lease any real property in the interests of the Company;
- Accept any gift or legacy of money or property whether subject to any special trust or not for any one or more of the objects of the Company;
- Entrust any land, building, relic, chattel or otherthing for safe custody and control to any national or local government authority,· or other gallery, museum, association, society or body of persons whether incorporated or not upon such terms and conditions as the Company thinks fit with power at any time to require the return thereof to the Company;
- Enter into agreements with Local Government Authorities, corporations, societies and individuals for the management maintenance and preservation of items of offshore and specialist vessel historical importance;
- Charge such fees for admission to lands, buildings and ships vested in it or under its control as the Company shall think fit;
- Give and enter into any guarantee in relation to the payment of any moneys and to give and enter into any form of indemnity;
- Acquire, by purchase, exchange, gift, devise, bequest, lease, hire or otherwise any real or personal property in furtherance of the objects and purposes of the Company;
- Sell, lease, exchange or otherwise dispose of any real or personal property of the Company;
- Construct, build, repair, maintain and alter any buildings;
- Invest the monies of the Company not immediately required in such manner as may from time to time be deemed expedient;
- Borrow or raise money and secure the repayment thereof on such terms and at such rate of interest and otherwise as the governing body of the Company from time to time shall think fit and in particular by mortgage or similar charge on or security over any property real or personal of the Company;
- Insure against all such risks, liabilities and eventualities as may seem advisable and to apply the proceeds of any such claim under any Insurance in such manner and for such purposes; and
- Do all such lawful things as are incidental or conducive to the attainment of the above objects and powers or any of them.
- Not-for-profit
- Thecompanymust not distribute any income or assets directly or indirectly to its members, except as provided in clauses 2and 69.
- Clause1does not stop the companyfrom doing the following things, provided they are done in good faith:
- paying a member for goods or services they have provided or expenses they have properly incurred at fair and reasonable rates or rates more favourable to the company, or
- making a payment to a member in carrying out the company’s charitable purpose(s).
- Amending the constitution
- Subject to clause 2, the members may amend this constitution by passing a special resolution.
- The members must not pass a special resolutionthat amends this constitution if passing it causes the companyto no longer be a charity.
Members
- Membership and register of members
- The membersofthe company are:
- initial members, and
- any other person that the directors allow to be a member, in accordance with this constitution.
- Thecompanymust establish and maintain a register of members. The register of members must be kept by the secretary and must contain:
- for each current member:
- The membersofthe company are:
- name
- address
- any alternative address nominated by the member for the service of notices, and
- date the member was entered on to the register.
- for each person who stopped being a member in the last 7 years:
- name
- address
- any alternative address nominated by the member for the service of notices, and
- dates the membership started and ended.
- The companymust give current membersaccess to the register of members.
- Information that is accessedfrom the register of members must only be used in a manner relevant to the interestsor rights of members.
- Who can be a member
- A person who supports the purposes of thecompanyis eligible to apply to be a member of the company under clause 12.
- In this clause, ‘person’ means an individual or incorporated body.
- How to apply to become a member
A person(as defined in clause 11.2) may apply to become a member of the companyby writing to the secretary stating that they:
- want to become a member
- support the purpose(s) of the company, and
- agree to comply with the company’s constitution, including paying the guaranteeunder clause 4 if required.
- Directors decide whether to approve membership
- The directors must consider an application for membership within a reasonable time after the secretary receives the application.
- If the directors approve an application, the secretary must as soon as possible:
- enter the new member on the register of members, and
- write to the applicant to tell them that their application was approved, and the date that their membership started (see clause 14).
- If the directors reject an application, the secretary must write to the applicant as soon as possible to tell them that their application has been rejected, but does not have to give reasons.
- For the avoidance of doubt, the directors may approve an application even if the application does not state the matters listed in clauses 12(a), 12(b) or 12(c). In that case, by applying to be a member, the applicant agrees to those three matters.
- When a person becomes a member
Other than initial members, an applicant will become a member when they are entered on the register of members.
- When a person stops being a member
A person immediately stops being a member if they:
- die
- are wound up or otherwise dissolved or deregistered (for an incorporated member)
- resign, by writing to the secretary
- are expelled under clause 17, or
- have not responded within three months to a written request from the secretary that they confirmin writing that they want to remain a member.
Dispute resolution and disciplinary procedures
- Dispute resolution
- The dispute resolution procedure in this clause applies to disputes (disagreements) under this constitution between a member or director and:
- one or more members
- one or more directors, or
- The dispute resolution procedure in this clause applies to disputes (disagreements) under this constitution between a member or director and:
- the company.
- A member must not start a dispute resolution procedure in relation to a matter which is the subject of a disciplinary procedure under clause 17 until the disciplinary procedure is completed.
- Those involved in the dispute must try to resolve it between themselves within 14 days of knowing about it.
- If those involved in the dispute do not resolve it under clause 3, they must within 10 days:
- tell the directors about the dispute in writing
- agree or request that a mediator be appointed, and
- attempt in good faith to settle the dispute by mediation.
- The mediator must:
- be chosen by agreement of those involved, or
- where those involved do not agree:
- for disputes between members, a person chosen by the directors,or
- for other disputes, a person chosen by either the Commissioner of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission or the president of the law institute or society in the state or territory in which the company has its registered office.
- A mediator chosen by the directors under clause 5b(i):
- may be a member or former member of the company
- must not have a personal interest in the dispute, and
- A mediator chosen by the directors under clause 5b(i):
- must not be biased towards or against anyone involved in the dispute.
- When conducting the mediation, the mediator must:
- allow those involved a reasonable chance to be heard
- allow those involved a reasonable chance to review any written statements
- ensure that those involved are given natural justice, and
- not make a decision on the dispute.
- Disciplining members
- In accordance with this clause, the directors may resolve to warn, suspend or expel a member from the company if the directors consider that:
- the member has breached this constitution, or
- the member’s behaviour is causing, has caused, or is likely to cause harm to the company.
- At least 14 days before the directors’ meeting at which a resolution under clause 1will be considered, the secretary must notify the member in writing:
- that the directors are considering a resolution to warn, suspend or expel the member
- that this resolution will be considered at a directors’ meeting and the date of that meeting
- In accordance with this clause, the directors may resolve to warn, suspend or expel a member from the company if the directors consider that:
- what the member is said to have done or not done
- the nature of the resolution that has been proposed, and
- that the member may provide an explanation to the directors, and details of how to do so.
- Before the directors pass any resolution under clause 1, the member must be given a chance to explain or defend themselves by:
- sending the directors a written explanation before that directors’ meeting, and/or
- speaking at the meeting.
- After considering any explanation under clause 3, the directors may:
- take no further action
- warn the member
- suspend the member’s rights as a member for a period of no more than 12 months
- expel the member
- refer the decision to an unbiased, independent person on conditions that the directors consider appropriate (however, the person can only make a decision that the directors could have made under this clause), or
- require the matter to be determined at a general meeting.
- The directors cannot fine a member.
- The secretary must give written notice to the member of the decision under clause 4as soon as possible.
- Disciplinary procedures must be completed as soon as reasonably practical.
- There will be no liability for any loss or injury suffered by the member as a result of any decision made in good faith under this clause.
General meetings of members
- General meetings called by directors
- The directors may call a general meeting.
- If members with at least 5% of the votes that may be cast at a general meeting make a written request to the companyfor a general meeting to be held, the directors must:
- within 21 days of the members’ request, give all members notice of a general meeting, and
- hold the general meeting within 2 months of the members’ request.
- The percentage of votes that members have (in clause 2) is to be worked out as at midnight before the members request the meeting.
- The members who make the request for a general meetingmust:
- state in the request any resolution to be proposed at the meeting
- sign the request, and
- give the request to the company.
- Separate copies of a document setting out the request may be signed by members if the wording of the request is the same in each copy.
- General meetings called by members
- If the directors do not call the meeting within 21 days of being requested under clause 2, 50% or more of the members who made the request may call and arrange to hold a general meeting.
- To call and hold a meeting under clause 1the members must:
- as far as possible, follow the procedures for general meetings set out in this constitution
- call the meeting using the list of members on the company’s member register, which the company must provide to the members making the request at no cost, and
- hold the general meeting within three months after the request was given to the company.
- The company must pay the members who request the general meeting any reasonable expenses they incur because the directors did not call and hold the meeting.
- Annual general meeting
- Ageneral meeting, called the annual general meeting, must be held:
- within 18 months after registration of the company, and
- after the first annual general meeting, at least once in every calendar year.
- Even if these items are not set out in the notice of meeting, the business of an annual general meetingmay include:
- a review of the company’s activities
- a review of the company’s finances
- Ageneral meeting, called the annual general meeting, must be held:
- any auditor’s report
- the election of directors, and
- the appointment and payment of auditors, if any.
- Before or at the annual general meeting, the directors must give information to the members on the company’s activities and finances during the period since the last annual general meeting.
- The chairperson of the annual general meetingmust give members as a whole a reasonable opportunity at the meeting to ask questions or make comments about the management of the company.
- Notice of general meetings
- Noticeof a general meetingmust be given to:
- each member entitled to vote at the meeting
- eachdirector, and
- Noticeof a general meetingmust be given to:
- the auditor(if any).
- Noticeof a general meetingmust be provided in writing at least 21 days before the meeting.
- Subject to clause 4, notice of a meeting may be provided less than 21 days before the meeting if:
- for an annual general meeting, all the members entitled to attend and vote at the annual general meetingagree beforehand, or
- forany other general meeting, members with at least 95% of the votes that may be cast at the meeting agree beforehand.
- Notice ofa meeting cannot be provided less than 21 days before the meeting if a resolution will be moved to:
- removea director
- appointa director in order to replace a director who was removed, or
- remove an auditor.
- Noticeof a general meetingmust include:
- the place, date and time for the meeting (and if the meeting is to be held in two or more places, the technology that will be used to facilitate this)
- the general nature of the meeting’s business
- if applicable, that a special resolution is to be proposed and the words of the proposed resolution
- a statement that members have the right to appoint proxies and that, if a member appoints a proxy:
- the proxy does not need to be a member of the company
- the proxy form must be delivered to the company at its registered address or the address (including an electronic address) specified in the notice of the meeting, and
- the proxy form must be delivered to the company at least 48 hours before the meeting.
- If a general meeting is adjourned (put off) for one month or more, the members must be given new notice of the resumed meeting.
- Quorum at general meetings
- For a general meetingto be held, at least 5members (a quorum) must be present(in person, by proxy or by representative) for the whole meeting.When determining whethera quorum is present, a person may only be counted once (even if that person is a representative or proxy of more than one member).
- No business may be conducted at a general meetingif a quorum is not present.
- If there is no quorum present within 60 minutes after the starting time stated in the notice of general meeting, the general meetingis adjourned to the date, time and place that the chairperson specifies. If the chairperson does not specify one or more of those things, the meeting is adjourned to:
- if the date is not specified – the same day in the next week
- if the time is not specified – the same time, and
- if the place is not specified – the same place.
- If no quorum is present at the resumed meeting within 60 minutes after the starting timeset for that meeting, the meeting is cancelled.
- Auditor’s right to attend meetings
- The auditor (if any) is entitled to attend any general meeting and to be heard by the members on any part of the business of the meeting that concerns the auditor in the capacity of auditor.
- The company must give the auditor (if any) any communications relating to the general meeting that a member of the company is entitled to receive.
- Representatives of members
- An incorporated member may appoint as a representative:
- one individual to represent the member at meetings and to sign circular resolutions under clause 31, and
- the same individual or another individual for the purpose of being appointed or elected as a director.
- The appointment of a representative by a member must:
- be in writing
- include the name of the representative
- An incorporated member may appoint as a representative:
- be signed on behalf of the member, and
- be given to the company or, for representation at a meeting, be given to the chairperson before the meeting starts.
- A representative has all the rights of a member relevant to the purposes of the appointment as a representative.
- The appointment may be standing (ongoing).
- Using technology to hold meetings
- The company may hold a general meeting at two or more venues using any technology that gives the members as a whole a reasonable opportunity to participate, including to hear and be heard.
- Anyone using this technology is taken to be present in person at the meeting.
- Chairperson for general meetings
- Theelected chairpersonis entitledto chair general meetings.
- The members present and entitled to vote at a general meetingmay choose a director or member to be the chairperson for that meeting if:
- there is no elected chairperson, or
- the elected chairperson is not present within 30 minutes after the starting time set for the meeting, or
- the elected chairperson is present but says they do not wish to act as chairperson of the meeting.
- Role of the chairperson
- The chairperson is responsible for the conduct of the general meeting, and for thispurpose must give members a reasonable opportunity to make comments and ask questions (including to the auditor (if any)).
- The chairpersonwill havea casting vote if the vote is tied.
- Adjournment of meetings
- If a quorum is present, a general meetingmust be adjourned if a majority of members presentdirect the chairperson to adjourn it.
- Only unfinishedbusinessmay be dealt with at a meeting resumed after an adjournment.
Members’ resolutions and statements
- Members’ resolutions and statements
- Memberswith at least 5% of the votes that may be cast on a resolution may give:
- written notice to the company of a resolution they propose to move at a general meeting(members’ resolution), and/or
- a written request to the company that the companygive all of its members a statement about a proposed resolution or any other matter that may properly be considered at a general meeting(members’ statement).
- A notice of a members’ resolution must set out the wording of the proposed resolutionand be signed by the members proposing the resolution.
- A request to distribute a members’ statement must set out the statement to be distributed and be signed by the members making the request.
- Separate copies of a document setting out the notice or request may be signed by members if the wording is the same in each copy.
- The percentage of votes that members have (as described in clause 1) is to be workedout as at midnight before the request or notice is given to the company.
- If the companyhas been given notice of a members’ resolution under clause 1a, the resolutionmust be considered at the next general meetingheld more than two months after the notice is given.
- This clause does notlimitany other right that a member has to propose a resolution at a general meeting.
- Memberswith at least 5% of the votes that may be cast on a resolution may give:
- Company must give notice of proposed resolution or distribute statement
- If the companyhas been given a notice or request under clause29:
- in time to send the notice of proposed members’ resolution or a copy of the members’ statement to members with a notice of meeting, it must do so at the company’s cost, or
- too late to send the notice of proposed members’ resolution or a copy of the members’ statement to members with a notice of meeting, then the members who proposed the resolution or made the request must pay the expenses reasonably incurred by the companyin giving members notice of the proposed members’ resolution or a copy of the members’ statement. However, at a general meeting, the members may pass a resolution that the company will pay these expenses.
- Thecompanydoes not need to send the notice of proposed members’ resolution or a copy of the members’ statement to members if:
- it is more than 1 000 words long
- the directors consider it may be defamatory
- If the companyhas been given a notice or request under clause29:
- clause 1bapplies, and the members who proposed the resolution or made the request have not paid the companyenough money to cover the cost of sending the notice of the proposed members’ resolution or a copy of the members’ statement to members, or
- in the case of a proposed members’ resolution, the resolution does not relate to a matter that may be properly considered at a general meetingor is otherwise not a valid resolution able to be put to the members.
- Circular resolutions of members
- Subject to clause 3, the directors may put a resolution to the members to pass a resolution without a general meetingbeing held (a circular resolution).
- The directorsmust notify the auditor (if any) as soon as possible that a circularresolution has or will be put to members, and set out the wording of the resolution.
- Circular resolutionscannot be used:
- for a resolution to remove an auditor, appoint a director or remove a director
- for passinga special resolution, or
- where theCorporations Actor this constitutionrequires a meeting to be held.
- A circular resolutionis passed if all the members entitled to vote on the resolution signor agree to the circular resolution, in the manner set out in clause 5or clause 31.6.
- Members may sign:
- a single document setting out the circular resolution and containing a statement that they agree to the resolution, or
- separate copies of that document, as long as the wording is the same in each copy.
- Thecompanymay send a circular resolution by email to members and members may agree by sending a reply email to that effect, including the text of the resolution in their reply.
Voting at general meetings
- How many votes a member has
Each member has one vote.
- Challenge to member’s right to vote
- A member or the chairperson may only challenge a person’s right to vote at a general meetingat that meeting.
- If a challenge is made under clause 1, the chairperson must decide whether or not the person may vote. The chairperson’s decision is final.
- How voting is carried out
- Voting must be conducted and decided by:
- a show of hands
- a vote in writing, or
- Voting must be conducted and decided by:
- another method chosen by the chairperson that is fair and reasonable in the circumstances.
- Before a vote is taken, the chairperson must state whether any proxy votes have been received and, if so, how the proxy votes will be cast.
- On a show of hands, the chairperson’s decision is conclusive evidence of the result of the vote.
- The chairperson and the meeting minutes do not need to state the number or proportion of the votes recorded in favour or against on a show of hands.
- When and how a vote in writing must be held
- A vote in writing may be demanded on any resolution instead of or after a vote by a show of hands by:
- at least five members present
- members presentwith at least 5% of the votes that may be passed on the resolution on the vote in writing (worked out as at the midnight before the vote in writing is demanded), or
- A vote in writing may be demanded on any resolution instead of or after a vote by a show of hands by:
- the chairperson.
- A vote in writing must be taken when and how the chairperson directs, unless clause 3applies.
- A vote in writing must be held immediately if it is demanded under clause 1:
- for the election of a chairperson under clause 2, or
- to decide whether to adjourn the meeting.
- A demand for a vote in writing may be withdrawn.
- Appointment of proxy
- A member may appoint a proxy to attend and vote at a general meetingon their behalf.
- A proxy does not need to be a member.
- A proxy appointed to attend and vote for a member has the same rights as the member to:
- speak at the meeting
- vote in a vote in writing (but only to the extent allowed by the appointment), and
- join in to demand a vote in writing under clause 1.
- An appointment of proxy (proxy form) must be signed by the member appointing the proxy and must contain:
- the member’s name and address
- thecompany’s name
- the proxy’s name or the name of the office held by the proxy, and
- the meeting(s) at which the appointment may be used.
- A proxy appointment may be standing (ongoing).
- Proxy forms must be received by the company at the address stated in the notice under clause 5dor at the company’s registered address at least 48 hours before a meeting.
- A proxy does not have the authority to speak and vote for a member at a meeting while the member is at the meeting.
- Unless the company receives written notice before the start or resumption of a general meeting at which a proxy votes, a vote cast by the proxy is valid even if, before the proxy votes, the appointing member:
- dies
- is mentally incapacitated
- revokes the proxy’s appointment, or
- revokes the authority of a representative or agent who appointed the proxy.
- A proxy appointment may specify the way the proxy must vote on a particular resolution.
- Voting by proxy
- A proxy is not entitled to vote on a show of hands (but this does not prevent a member appointed as a proxy from voting as a member on a show of hands).
- When a vote in writing is held, a proxy:
- does not need to vote, unless the proxy appointment specifies the way they must vote
- if the way they must vote is specified on the proxy form, must vote that way, and
- if the proxy is also a member or holds more than one proxy, may cast the votes held in different ways.
Directors
- Number of directors
The companymust have at least 6 directors.
- Election and appointment of directors
- The initial directors are the people who have agreed to act as directors and who are named as proposed directors in the application for registration of the company.
- Apart from the initial directors and directors appointed under clause 39.5, the members may elect a director by a circular resolution or a resolution passed in a general meeting.
- Each of the directors must be appointed by a separate resolution, unless:
- the members present have first passed a resolution that the appointments may be voted on together, and
- no votes were cast against that resolution.
- A person is eligible for election as a director of the companyif they:
- are a member of the company, or a representative of a member of the company(appointed under clause 24)
- are nominated by two members or representatives of members entitled to vote (unless theperson was previously elected as a director at a general meetingand has been a director since that meeting),
- give the companytheir signedconsent to act as a director of the company, and
- are not ineligible to be a directorunder the Corporations Actor the ACNC Act.
- The directors may appoint a person as a director to fill a casual vacancy or as an additional director if that person:
- is a member of the company, or a representative of a member of the company(appointed under clause 24)
- gives the companytheir signed consentto act as a director of the company, and
- is not ineligible to be a directorunder the Corporations Actor the ACNC Act.
- If the number of directors is reduced to fewer than three or is less than the number required for a quorum, the continuing directors may act for the purpose of increasing the number of directors to three (or higher if required for a quorum) or calling a general meeting, but for no other purpose.
- Election of chairperson
The directors must elect a director as the company’s elected chairperson.
- Term of office
- At each annual general meeting:
- any director appointed by the directors to fill a casual vacancy or as an additional director must retire, and
- at least one-third of the remaining directors must retire.
- The directors who must retire at each annual general meetingunder clause 1bwill be the directors who have been longest in office since last being elected. Where directors were elected on the same day, the director(s) to retire will be decided by lot unless they agree otherwise.
- Other than a director appointed under clause 39.5, a director’s term of office starts at the end of the annual general meetingat which they are elected and ends at the end of the annual general meetingat which they retire.
- Each director must retire at least once every three years.
- A director who retires under clause 1may nominate for election or re-election, subject to clause 41.6.
- A director who has held office for a continuous period of nine years or more may only be re-appointed or re-elected by a special resolution.
- At each annual general meeting:
- When a director stops being a director
A director stops being a director if they:
- give written notice of resignation as a director to the company
- die
- are removed as a director by a resolution of the members
- stop being a member of the company
- are a representative of a member, and that member stops being a member
- are a representative of a member, and the member notifies the companythat the representative is no longer a representative
- are absent for 3consecutive directors’ meetings without approval from the directors, or
- become ineligible to be a director of the companyunder the Corporations Actor the ACNC Act.
Powers of directors
- Powers of directors
- The directors are responsiblefor managing and directing the activities of the companyto achievethe purpose(s)set out in clause 6.
- The directors mayuseall the powers of the companyexcept for powers that, under the Corporations Actor this constitution, may only be used by members.
- The directorsmust decideon the responsible financial management of the companyincluding:
- any suitable written delegations of power under clause 44, and
- how money will be managed, such as how electronic transfers, negotiable instrumentsor cheques must be authorised and signed or otherwise approved.
- The directors cannot remove a director or auditor.Directors and auditors may only be removed by a members resolution at a general meeting.
- Delegation of directors’ powers
- The directors may delegate any of their powers and functions to a committee, a director, an employee of the company(such as a chief executive officer) or any other person, as they consider appropriate.
- The delegation must be recorded in the company’s minute book.
- Payments to directors
- Thecompany must not pay fees to a director for acting as a director.
- Thecompany may:
- pay a director for work they do for the company, other than as a director, if the amount is no more than a reasonable fee for the work done, or
- reimburse a director for expenses properly incurred by the director in connection with the affairs of the
- Any payment made under clause 2must be approved by the directors.
- The company may pay premiums for insurance indemnifying directors, as allowed for by law (including the Corporations Act) and this constitution.
- Execution of documents
The companymay execute a document without using a common seal if the document is signed by:
- two directors of the company, or
- a director and the secretary.
Duties of directors
- Duties of directors
The directors must comply with their duties as directors under legislation and common law (judge-made law), and with the duties described in governance standard 5 of the regulations made under the ACNC Actwhich are:
- to exercise their powers and discharge their duties with the degree of care and diligence that a reasonable individual would exercise if they were a director of the company
- to act in good faith in the best interests of the companyand to further the charitable purpose(s) of the companyset out in clause 6
- not to misuse their position as a director
- not to misuse information they gain in their role as a director
- to disclose any perceived or actual material conflicts of interest in the manner set out in clause 48
- to ensure that the financial affairs of the companyare managed responsibly, and
not to allow the companyto operate while it is insolvent.
- Conflicts of interest
- A director must disclose the nature and extent of any actual or perceived material conflict of interest in a matter that is being considered at a meeting of directors (or that is proposed in a circular resolution):
- to the other directors, or
- if all of the directors have the same conflict of interest, to the members at the next general meeting, or at an earlier time if reasonable to do so.
- The disclosure of a conflict of interest by a director must be recorded in the minutes of the meeting.
- Each director who has a material personal interest in a matter that is being considered at a meeting of directors (or that is proposed in a circular resolution) must not, except as provided under clauses 4:
- be present at the meeting while the matter is being discussed, or
- vote on the matter.
- A director may still be present and vote if:
- their interest arises because they are a member of the company, and the other members have the same interest
- their interest relates to an insurance contract that insures, or would insure, the director against liabilities that the director incurs as a director of the company(see clause 66)
- A director must disclose the nature and extent of any actual or perceived material conflict of interest in a matter that is being considered at a meeting of directors (or that is proposed in a circular resolution):
- their interest relates to a payment by the companyunder clause 65(indemnity), or any contract relating to an indemnity that is allowed under the Corporations Act
- the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) makes an order allowing the director to vote on the matter, or
- the directors who do not have a material personal interest in the matter pass a resolution that:
- identifies the director, the nature and extent of the director’s interest in the matter and how it relates to the affairs of the company, and
- says that those directors are satisfied that the interest should not stop the director from voting or being present.
Directors’ meetings
- When the directors meet
The directors may decide how often, where and when they meet.
- Calling directors’ meetings
- A director may call a directors’ meeting by giving reasonable notice to all of the other directors.
- A director may give notice in writing or by any other means of communication that has previously been agreed to by all of the directors.
- Chairperson for directors’ meetings
- The elected chairpersonis entitledto chair directors’ meetings.
- The directors at a directors’meeting may choose a director to be the chairperson for that meeting if the elected chairpersonis:
- not present within 30 minutes after the starting time set for the meeting, or
- present but does not want to act as chairperson of the meeting.
- Quorum at directors’ meetings
- Unless the directors determine otherwise, the quorum for a directors’ meeting is a majority (more than 50%) of directors.
- A quorum must be present for the whole directors’ meeting.
- Using technology to hold directors’ meetings
- The directors may hold their meetings by using any technology (such as video or teleconferencing) that is agreed to by all of the directors.
- The directors’ agreement may be a standing (ongoing) one.
- A director may only withdraw their consent within a reasonable period before the meeting.
- Passing directors’ resolutions
A directors’ resolution must be passed by a majority of the votes cast by directors present and entitled to vote on the resolution.
- Circular resolutions of directors
- The directors may pass a circular resolution without a directors’ meeting being held.
- A circular resolution is passed if all the directors entitled to vote on the resolution sign or otherwise agree to the resolution in the manner set out in clause 3or clause 55.4.
- Each director may sign:
- a single document setting out the resolution and containing a statement that they agree to the resolution, or
- separate copies of that document, as long as the wording of the resolution is the same in each copy.
- Thecompanymay send a circular resolution by email to the directors and the directors may agree to the resolution by sending a reply email to that effect, including the text of the resolution in their reply.
- A circular resolution is passed when the last director signs or otherwise agrees to the resolution in the manner set out in clause 3or clause 55.4.
Secretary
- Appointment and role of secretary
- Thecompanymust have at least one secretary, who may also be a director.
- A secretary must be appointed by the directors (after giving the companytheir signed consent to act as secretary of the company) and may be removed by the directors.
- The directors must decide the terms and conditions under which the secretary is appointed, including any remuneration.
- The role of the secretary includes:
- maintaining a register of the company’s members, and
- maintaining the minutes and other records of general meetings (including notices of meetings), directors’ meetings and circular resolutions.
Minutes and records
- Minutes and records
- Thecompanymust, within one month, make and keep the following records:
- minutes of proceedings and resolutions of general meetings
- minutes of circular resolutions of members
- Thecompanymust, within one month, make and keep the following records:
- a copy of a notice of each general meeting, and
- a copy of a members’ statement distributed to members under clause 30.
- Thecompanymust, within one month, make and keep the following records:
- minutes of proceedings and resolutions of directors’ meetings (including meetings of any committees), and
- minutes of circular resolutions of directors.
- To allow members to inspect the company’s records:
- thecompanymust give a member access to the records set out in clause 1, and
- the directors may authorise a member to inspect other records of the company, including recordsreferred to in clause 2and clause 58.1.
- The directors must ensure that minutes of a general meetingor a directors’ meeting are signed within a reasonable time after the meeting by:
- the chairperson of the meeting, or
- the chairperson of the next meeting.
- The directors must ensure that minutes of the passing of a circular resolution (of members or directors) are signed by a director within a reasonable time after the resolution is passed.
- Financial and related records
- Thecompanymust make and keep written financial records that:
- correctly record and explain its transactions and financial position and performance, and
- enable true and fair financial statements to be prepared and to be audited.
- Thecompanymust also keep written records that correctly record its operations.
- Thecompanymust retain its records for at least 7 years.
- The directors must take reasonable steps to ensure that the company‘s records are kept safe.
- Thecompanymust make and keep written financial records that:
By-laws
- By-laws
- The directors may pass a resolution to make by-laws to give effect to this constitution.
- Members and directors must comply with by-laws as if they were part of this constitution.
Notice
- What is notice
- Anything written to or from the companyunder any clause in this constitution is written notice and is subject to clauses 61to 63, unless specified otherwise.
- Clauses61to 63do not apply to a notice of proxy under clause 6.
- Notice to the company
Written notice or any communication under this constitution may be given to the company, the directors or the secretary by:
- delivering it to the company’s registered office
- posting it to the company’s registered office or to another address chosen by the companyfor notice to be provided
- sending it to an email address or other electronic address notified by the companyto the members as the company’s email address or other electronic address, or
- sending it to the fax number notified by the companyto the members as the company’s fax number.
- Notice to members
- Written noticeor any communication under this constitution may be given to a member:
- in person
- by posting it to, or leaving it at the address of the member in the register of members or an alternative address (if any) nominated by the member for service of notices
- Written noticeor any communication under this constitution may be given to a member:
- sending it to the email or other electronic address nominated by the member as an alternative address for service of notices (if any)
- sending it to the fax number nominated by the member as an alternative address for service of notices (if any), or
- if agreed to by the member, by notifying the member at an email or other electronic address nominated by the member, that the notice is available at a specified place or address (including an electronic address).
- If the company does not have an address for the member, the company is not required to give notice in person.
- When notice is taken to be given
A notice:
- delivered in person, or left at the recipient’s address, is taken to be given on the day it is delivered
- sent by post, is taken to be given on the third day after it is posted with the correct payment of postage costs
- sent by email, fax or other electronic method, is taken to be given on the business day after it is sent, and
- given under clause 62.1(e) is taken to be given on the business day after the notification that the notice is available is sent.
Financial year
- Company’s financial year
The company‘s financial year is from 1 July to 30 June, unless the directors pass a resolution to change the financial year.
Indemnity, insurance and access
- Indemnity
- Thecompanyindemnifies each officer of the companyout of the assets of thecompany, to the relevant extent, against all losses and liabilities (including costs, expenses and charges) incurred by that person as an officer of the company.
- In this clause, ‘officer’ means a director or secretary and includes a director or secretary after they have ceased to hold that office.
- In this clause, ‘to the relevant extent’ means:
- to the extent that the companyis not precluded by law (including the Corporations Act) from doing so, and
- for the amount that the officer is not otherwise entitled to be indemnified and is not actually indemnified by another person (including an insurer under an insurance policy).
- The indemnity is a continuing obligation and is enforceable by an officer even though that person is no longer an officer of the company.
- Insurance
To the extent permitted by law (including the Corporations Act), and if the directors consider it appropriate, the companymay pay or agree to pay a premium for a contract insuring a person who is or has been an officer of the companyagainst any liability incurred by the person as an officer of the company.
- Directors’ access to documents
- A director has a right of access to the financial records of the companyat all reasonable times.
- If the directors agree, the companymust give a director or former director access to:
- certain documents, including documents provided for or available to the directors, and
- any other documents referred to in those documents.
Winding up
- Surplus assets not to be distributed to members
If the companyis wound up, any surplus assetsmust not be distributed to a member or a former member of the company, unless that member or former member is a charity described in clause 69.1.
- Distribution of surplus assets
- Subject to the Corporations Act and any other applicable Act, and any court order, any surplusassetsthat remain after the companyis wound up must be distributed to one or more charities:
- with charitable purpose(s) similar to, or inclusive of, the purpose(s) in clause 6, and
- which also prohibit the distribution of any surplus assets to its members to at least the same extent as the company.
- The decision as to the charity or charities to be given the surplus assets must be made by a special resolution of members at or before the time of winding up. If the members do not make this decision, the company may apply to the Supreme Court to make this decision.
- Subject to the Corporations Act and any other applicable Act, and any court order, if the endorsement (if any) of the organisation as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) for the operation of the fund, authority or institution is revoked, any surplus assets remaining after the payment of liabilities attributable to it, shall be transferred to a fund, authority or institution to which income tax-deductible gifts can be made with charitable purpose(s) similar to, or inclusive of, the purpose(s) in clause 6.
- Subject to the Corporations Act and any other applicable Act, and any court order, any surplusassetsthat remain after the companyis wound up must be distributed to one or more charities:
Definitions and interpretation
- Definitions
In this constitution:
ACNC Actmeans the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 (Cth)
companymeans the companyreferred to in clause 1
Corporations Actmeans the Corporations Act 2001(Cth)
elected chairpersonmeans a person elected by the directors to be the company’s chairperson under clause 40
general meeting means a meeting of members and includes the annual general meeting, under clause 20.1
initial membermeans a person who is named in the application for registration of the company, with their consent, as a proposed member of the company
member presentmeans, in connection with a general meeting, a member presentin person, by representative or by proxy at the venue or venues for the meeting
Offshore meansthe Australian Maritime Sector engaged in Maritime Activities outside Ports and the Port Limits of Australia.
registered charitymeans a charity that is registered under the ACNC Act
special resolution means a resolution:
- of which notice has been given under clause 5c, and
- that has been passed by at least 75% of the votes cast by members presentand entitled to vote on the resolution, and
- surplus assetsmeans any assets of the companythat remain after paying all debts and other liabilities of the company, including the costs of winding up.
- Reading this constitution with the Corporations Act
- The replaceable rules set out in the Corporations Actdo not apply to the company.
- While the companyis a registered charity, the ACNC Actand the Corporations Actoverride any clauses in this constitution which are inconsistent with those Acts.
- If the companyis not a registered charity(even if it remains a charity), the Corporations Actoverrides any clause in this constitution which is inconsistent with that Act.
- A word or expression that is defined in the Corporations Act, or used in that Act and covering the same subject, has the same meaning as in this constitution.
- Interpretation
In this constitution:
- the words ‘including’, ‘for example’, or similar expressions mean that there may be more inclusions or examples than those mentioned after that expression, and
- reference to an Act includes every amendment, re-enactment, or replacement of that Act and any subordinate legislation made under that Act (such as regulations).
Signed by the Directors
Richard John Lowry of 59 Rowena Parade Richmond Victoria 3121
Stuart Wilson of 12 Creswick Street Glen Iris Victoria 3146
Ross Henry Brewer of 79 Constantine Ave St Andrews Beach Victoria 3941
Reginald Albert McNee of 3/13 Washington St Toorak 3142
Peter Russel Sturtivant Barrow (Secretary) of 50 Vincent St Glen Iris Victoria 3146
Neil James Seton Butt of 52 Lansdown Street Balwyn North Victoria 3104
Michael John Tamblyn of 3/429 High Street Kew Victoria 3101
Dated: 20/02/2020