Express an Interest

Targeting:
Females, People with Disabilities, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander, LGBTQI

About us

Australian Democracy Network is a young, dynamic campaign organisation dedicated to creating a healthy Australian democracy that puts people and the planet first. We bring people and organisations together to campaign for the changes that make our democracy more fair, open, transparent and accountable. 

We believe that a healthy democracy is the key to better outcomes on all the most important challenges we face, from public health to the climate crisis. We need the collective power of broad, diverse civil society alliances working together to win structural reforms that change the whole system.

Australian Democracy Network is a Company Limited by Guarantee registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. We hold Deductible Gift Recipient status. The Board currently comprises six Directors.

We are seeking to recruit a new Director to join our Board and to act as Company Secretary. 

Who you are

You are highly organised, efficient, detail-oriented, and understand the importance of good administrative processes and practices in creating high-functioning, effective boards. 

You understand and support ADN’s values and mission.

The role

In addition to the responsibilities shared with all directors, the Secretary will support the Chair in the smooth and effective running of the Board, ensuring effective administration and governance, and that meetings are properly convened and recorded. 

The Secretary will also ensure that the organisation's governance records are maintained and that the organisation is compliant with constitutional and other legal requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the logistics of board meetings, including scheduling and maintaining a board calendar and distribution of papers.
• Prepare and distribute meeting agendas in consultation with the Chair and Executive Director.
• Record accurate minutes of board meetings and distribute them in a timely manner.
• Maintain the official records of the board, including minutes, resolutions, and governance documents.
• Ensure the organisation meets its obligations regarding Annual General Meetings, including notices and minutes.
• Manage correspondence on behalf of the board as required.
• Maintain registers required by the organisation's constitution or relevant legislation, including the register of members and register of interests.
• Maintain governance and operational documents with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission.
• Support the recruitment and induction of new board members.

Skills and Experience

• Experience in a board secretary or similar position would be advantageous.
• Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to liaise and consult with directors, the CEO, and staff.
• Understanding of the functioning of boards and the not-for-profit sector.
• Highly developed writing skills, including the ability to prepare concise summary documentation and minutes.
• Proven ability to coordinate activities, prioritise issues, and meet deadlines.
• Relevant governance qualifications, experience, or training would be an advantage.
• Experience with standard office software and online conferencing systems.

Commitment required

• ADN Board members serve 3 year terms.
• Commitment of time is estimated at a minimum of 8-10 hours per month.
• The Board meets every two months, plus preparation time before and after each meeting.
• Additional time for AGM preparation and governance administration as required.
• ADN is a not for profit organisation and the role is honorary.