Community Organisations

Contributed by Wendy Lamotte and Gosnells Community Legal Centre and current to 1 September 2005

People getting together to make a difference enrich our world in a myriad of ways. Community organisations enhance democracy by providing a voice and profile for interests and groups, which would otherwise be voiceless or marginalised. If you have an issue you want to address with others, there are many models of community organisations available to do so, as well as resources and information. This chapter will outline these models and the legal issues associated with them. The focus of this chapter is on incorporated associations under Western Australian legislation, and includes useful practical advice for those individuals wishing to become involved in such associations as Committee or Board members.

• Models of community organisations
• Incorporated structures
• Legal obligations of an incorporated association
• Practical tips for management of committee members
• Contact points and other useful resources