Our Vision - A thriving Strata Sector
The Power of Good Governance: A Message to SCAQ Members
As the Strata Community Association Queensland (SCAQ) moves into the second year of our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, the Board is shifting its focus towards strengthening our own governance structures. The aim is to modernise the association, manage our growth effectively, and build a solid foundation for the future. Governance is more than just rules and regulations; it’s about fostering the right environment for our organisation to thrive.
One of the key challenges SCAQ faces is transitioning from a volunteer-driven organisation to one that operates with a dedicated team and a significant operational engine. This evolution calls for the Board to step back from day-to-day operations and instead adopt a more strategic and commercially focused governance role. This shift is not only structural but cultural—it requires us to let go of past habits and embrace a new way of working.
As our association grows and the sector faces increasing complexity, the amount of work required from the Board has risen significantly. For a group of volunteers, many of whom have demanding careers and businesses of their own, this workload is unsustainable. It is essential that we remain focused on the big picture and avoid getting lost in operational details. This is why we have engaged an independent consulting firm, Conscious Governance, to conduct a full review of our governance practices.
The review will cover a broad range of areas, from updating policies and procedures to recommending a modern governance structure that better supports our future needs. Importantly, it will also focus on the skills and competencies required of Board members, ensuring that we meet our fiduciary responsibilities under Corporations Law as a company limited by guarantee.
In the coming months, members will notice some important changes. We will be redefining the roles of the Board, introducing new committees, and restructuring our advisory committees to better align with the needs of the association and our management team. As a first step, the Board has formally transitioned the Company Secretary role to management, with Laura Bos taking on this position, supported by a new Governance Committee. This committee will focus on critical areas such as policy development, Board recruitment and induction, and broader governance matters.
Additionally, we will be seeking member input on a proposed change to our Constitution at the upcoming AGM. The Board is recommending extending Director terms from the current two-year terms (up to three consecutive terms) to three-year terms (up to two consecutive terms). This change is aimed at providing greater continuity and stability, both for the Board and our management team, allowing Directors to settle into their roles more effectively and make more meaningful contributions.
As we prepare for our AGM on November 21, which will be held entirely online this year, I encourage all members to consider Board nominations carefully. If you’re thinking about nominating, take the time to read the Position Description that is included in the Nominations Pack, attend the information session, speak with current directors, and research what it means to serve on a Board. It’s a rewarding experience, but it requires dedication, especially as we steer through this critical phase of growth and transformation.
Good governance is the backbone of a successful association. It ensures that we remain accountable to our members, responsive to the needs of our sector, and prepared for future challenges. By strengthening our governance, we are not only securing SCAQ’s present but also ensuring its long-term success. Together, with the support of our members, we can navigate this period of change and emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to serve the strata community.
Let’s continue this journey forward—focused, empowered, and ready for the future.
Andrew Davidson
SCAQ President
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