Governance
How We Operate: Key Points from Our Constitution
Friends of the Pound (Tweed) Inc. is governed by a formal Constitution adopted in January 2022, in accordance with the Associations Incorporation Act 2009 (NSW). This page outlines the key principles that guide how we operate.
Our Purpose
Friends of the Pound is a not-for-profit community organisation dedicated to:
Rescuing and rehoming companion animals,
Promoting responsible pet ownership,
Supporting local councils and the community in animal welfare.
Membership
Who can join: Any person who supports our objectives can apply to become a member.
How to join: Submit an application and pay the required membership fee.
Your rights: Members can vote at general meetings, nominate for the committee, and access key documents like the Constitution and minutes.
Our Committee
We are managed by a volunteer Committee of Management, elected annually by members at the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Committee roles include:
President: Leads the committee and represents the organisation publicly.
Vice President: Supports the President and steps in when needed.
Secretary: Handles communications, records, and meeting notices.
Treasurer: Manages finances and reporting.
Ordinary Committee Members: Support activities and decision-making.
The committee is responsible for strategic direction, compliance, and overseeing day-to-day operations.
Meetings
Annual General Meeting (AGM): Held once a year to review finances, elect the committee, and share updates.
General Meetings: May be held at other times to discuss important matters.
Committee Meetings: Held regularly to manage operational decisions.
Members are notified in advance and invited to attend AGMs and vote on key matters.
Disputes and Conduct
We aim to resolve all concerns respectfully and fairly.
If disputes arise between members or between a member and the committee:
A confidential resolution process is followed,
The aim is to resolve internally first,
If needed, external mediation may be considered.
Access to Documents
All members are entitled to:
A copy of the Constitution,
Access to minutes of meetings,
Financial statements and annual reports upon request.
We aim to provide these in a timely and transparent way.
Finances & Reporting
We operate as a not-for-profit, meaning all funds go toward our mission.
Annual financial statements are prepared and presented at the AGM.
We comply with all reporting obligations under NSW law.
Winding Up
In the unlikely event that Friends of the Pound winds up, any remaining assets must be transferred to another animal welfare organisation or charity with similar values — in accordance with our Constitution.
Want to Read the Full Constitution?
You can download the full Constitution here:
👉 Download: Constitution (PDF, adopted January 2022)
This document sets out the legal framework under which we operate as an Incorporated Association in NSW.