The Territory Government’s Stronger Associations program aims to make it easier for local clubs and incorporated associations to operate.

It helps associations – which range from sporting clubs to charitable associations – to improve governance, improve long-term sustainability for their organisations and strengthen compliance with the Associations Act 2003.

Associations, which are often run by volunteers, can get free governance “health checks” or attend governance information sessions.

The governance health checks – delivered by Matrix on Board, which offers association management consultancy for not-for-profit organisations – provide independent reviews of an association’s governance.

The review helps organisations identify risks, strengthen decision-making and improve performance. Matrix on Board managing director Sally Clifford says the governance health checks are aimed at boards and committees.

“Stream 1 is for health checks and quick identification of areas for improvement.

“Stream 2 is for supporting individual associations to address targeted issues, including those that might be identified during the health check.”

Governance information sessions, delivered face-to-face and online by Treeti Business Consulting, are designed to help associations build governance knowledge and skills. Treeti managing director Claire Maradani says strong incorporated associations are the foundation of thriving communities.

“Through interactive and informative sessions, Treeti will help incorporated associations strengthen their governance, build capability and create sustainable organisations that can continue making a positive impact,” she says.

Topics covered in the Treeti information sessions include association fundamentals, annual reporting and compliance, grievance process and dispute handling, and roles of members and misconduct.

Incorporated associations play a critical role in the social, cultural and economic life of the Territory.

They create opportunities for participation, social connection and community development particularly in regional and remote communities.

Incorporated associations are, in many ways, the epitome of the human spirit – where value is built through connection, beliefs are traded, and hope reaches far beyond the scoreboard.

They are important pillars in improving mental health, education outcomes, community cohesion and long-term opportunity in the community. The NT Government recognises that for them to keep delivering for Territorians it is important that those who give up their time to lead clubs and associations are supported.

The Stronger Associations program is popular with community clubs.

Taverners NT deputy chair Jo Fitzpatrick says: “This is a fantastic program – helping volunteers understand good governance and their responsibilities is great.

“Associations are such a key part of our community – and they are nearly always run by mums and dads, and volunteers doing their best.

“This program will support community leaders to build good skills. Even if they have a lot of the skills needed to run an association, they can still upskill.”

Taverners NT raises money through memberships, sponsorships and fundraising activities and distributes the funds to support young and disadvantaged Territorians to take part in sport.

It is a strong supporter of NT Cricket, including First Nations cricket, such as the Imparja Cup, remote school clinics, and remote and remote carnivals.

Support from Taverners enabled women’s baseball to get off the ground in Darwin. The charity has distributed more than $10 million in cash and kind nationally since it was launched in Australia in 1982.

The Northern Territory Government is also amending the Associations Act 2003 to ensure the legislative framework remains effective, contemporary and supports associations fulfill their purpose in the community.

Reforms will focus on strengthening compliance, governance and dispute resolution, aligning with other jurisdictions in Australia.

It will also ensure the legislative framework remains robust and responsive to the contemporary needs of associations in the Territory.

For further information, visit nt.gov.au/stronger-associations TQ