Frequently
asked questions
Do we have to have a written constitution?
No. But it is more businesslike and it does ensure that you define your objectives and you can become incorporated.
How do we write a constitution?
Booklet 12 of this Department of Sport and Recreation (DSR) series, ‘Establishing your club constitution and becoming incorporated’, provides you with a step-by-step guide to establishing your constitution.
Further information can be found at
www.commerce.wa.gov.au or by contacting the Department of Commerce on
1300 30 40 74.
In any case, bear these points in mind:
    Keep it simple and short.
    Make it flexible (by allowing for
by-laws).
    State your objectives clearly.
    Have a wind-up clause (be definite about the distribution of assets should your organisation lapse).
Do we have to incorporate?
No. But it can protect individual members
in certain situations and give your organisation the right to sign contracts, lease premises, operate bank accounts and so on.
Booklet 12 of this series, ‘Establishing your club constitution and becoming incorporated’, provides you with a step-by-step guide to establishing your constitution. Further information and application forms can be found at www.commerce.wa.gov.au or by contacting the Department of Commerce
on 1300 30 40 74.
What about office bearers?
    You should have a president, chairperson or someone in charge.
    Your organisation should have a secretary to deal with administration.
    If you handle money, you must have a treasurer. Small clubs or groups often combine the duties of the secretary and treasurer.
    It is useful to have a deputy to chair meetings when the president is absent.
How big a committee is required for the proper working of the organisation?
Keep it as small as possible! Work out
the main areas of responsibility, e.g. fundraising, social – then determine the size of the committee. Recruit a qualified member for special projects. Don’t have people on a committee just to make up numbers.
Do we need an accountant for treasurer?
No. Small organisation accounts are not complicated, but an effective system right at the start is important.
Ask someone who knows how to set up a simple system to write down the steps for reference.
How do we register our members?
Many organisations use a spreadsheet or database on a home computer to maintain and update membership details. If you use this system, don’t forget to back up regularly.
Whatever registration system you use, make sure it is a simple and effective one.
How do we get sponsors?
Do you need them? If you achieve a sponsor’s funds or goods, it is going to cost you time and effort to make their support worthwhile. It is better to get your organisation running efficiently and find sponsors only for specific projects.

Can we get financial assistance
to set up the club or group?
There are a variety of grants available to community sport and recreation clubs.
Do we have to have a Post Office
Box for mail?
No, but it is most useful and worth the money. Office bearers tend to change quickly in clubs or groups.
Do we need contact with our
local government council?
Yes. Establish a communication link. Many local authorities may be able to help you with information and resources.
Is personal advice available?
DSR has regional officers with expertise in the delivery of sport and recreation including various aspects of running clubs/groups, junior sport, seniors, Indigenous sport, coaching, officiating and volunteers.
Do we tell our state association
of our activities?
In some cases, it is obligatory. In any case, it is always desirable.

Step-by-step to starting your club
Make sure there is going to be an ongoing need for the club or group (i.e. what are the aims of the organisation?).
Make sure you have a base for
your activities.
    Draft a constitution.
    Decide whether to become incorporated.
    Design an effective registration system.
    Draw up a budget.
    Make copies of your constitution
and budget.
    Call your prospective members together to:
examine the constitution and budget; and
get agreement on your objectives.
Ask members to consider standing
for office.
You may have to have a second
get-together to:
agree on the constitution and costs; 
enrol members (after payment
of a nominal fee); and
elect office bearers.