Governance
What is Governance?
Governance encompasses the system by which an organisation is monitored and operates, and the mechanisms by which it, and its decision-makers, are held to account. Ethics, risk management, compliance and administration are all elements of governance.
Good governance is essential as it ensures that the day-to-day work of the Diocese aligns with and contributes to achieving the Diocesan purpose and staying true to our vision and mission. Civil and federal laws and the code of canon law are followed to ensure governance is compliant.
Members of the Diocesan governance bodies are individuals who together are responsible for the oversight of operations and making sure it is working towards achieving its purpose in a way that meets our ethical, legal and financial obligations.
Members of the governance bodies must:
- Act with care and diligence
- Act in good faith and in the best interest of the Diocese
- Not misuse the position for personal interest
- Disclose any perceived or actual conflicts of interest
All members of the Diocesan governance are bound by the Code of Conduct for Members of Diocesan Councils, Boards and Committees.
Code of Conduct for Board Members
Who can be a member of Diocesan governance?
Eligibility for appointment to Diocesan governance are outlined in the constituent documents for each governing body. Members must not have been disqualified from managing a corporation under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) or disqualified from being a responsible person of a registered charity by the ACNC Commissioner.
Diocese of Cairns Governance Project
The Governance Reform Project commenced early in 2022, with the aim to revitalise our boards of governance. The Project is managed by the Chancellor with the assistance of two advisory groups:
- The Governance Steering Committee and;
- The Governance Advisory Group to the Bishop.
Since the beginning of 2022, boards have been renewed with new members adding expertise and diversity to our governance.
New and current board members participated in the inaugural induction and training on 25 July 2022. The Diocese is in the process of transitioning to BoardEffect, a digital management platform. We are also organising a Christmas gathering at Bishop’s House for board members on the 6th December 2022.
For anyone willing to contribute to Diocesan Governance please do not hesitate to contact us or send an Expression of Interest.
Services & Ministries
