Board induction, evaluation and succession
How directors join, how the board reviews itself and how it renews.
Recruitment
The board keeps a skills matrix and reviews it every year. Vacancies are advertised openly. A majority of directors must be independent.
Checks before appointment
- Director identification number.
- Searches of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission register of disqualified persons and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission banned and disqualified register.
- Police check, and a working with children check where needed.
- Signed consent and declarations.
Induction
Within a month of joining, each director receives the constitution, policies, budget, strategic plan and risk register, meets the Chair and Treasurer, signs the code of conduct and completes safeguarding and sexual harassment training.
Evaluation
The Chair leads a board self-assessment every year. The other directors review the Chair's performance. Results and actions are minuted.
Succession
Terms are staggered so no more than half the board retires in one year. The board names a deputy for the Chair and the Treasurer. Terms and limits follow the constitution.
Development
Each director completes basic governance training in their first year, using free resources from the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and the Institute of Community Directors Australia.