National Report July 2018

When the Board of Girl Guides Australia appointed me as the Acting Chief Commissioner there was an undertaking to review the role of the Chief Commissioner, primarily considering the size and scope of the role. Following the review, the Board agreed that it was not tenable for the organisation to continue to expect one person to fulfill both the role of the Chief Commissioner and the Chair of the Board.

At the Annual General Meeting of Girl Guides Australia on 2 June, the proposed resolutions to split the role of the Chief Commissioner and Chair of the Board were approved.

The position descriptions very clearly state the purpose of the roles:

The purpose of the Chief Commissioner role is to lead Guiding in Australia and be the external face of Girl Guides Australia and Guiding in Australia. 

The purpose of the Chair of the Board role is to lead the GGA Board in the proper governance and effective administration of Girl Guides Australia as a Member Organisation of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS).

The Chief Commissioner will be a peer with the Chair of the Board and other directors on the Girl Guides Australia Board. The change is effective immediately, and the Board has appointed me Chair of the Board until 31 December 2018. I will continue as the Acting Chief Commissioner until 31 December 2018.

The following changes to the Constitution were also approved at the AGM:

  • to amend the term of the Chief Commissioner in the reappointment of the second term from two years to three years; and
  • to amend the term of Treasurer in the reappointment of the second term from two years to three years.

The recruitment process for the Chief Commissioner and Chair of the Board will commence at the end of August.

Girl Guides Australia will also be looking for National Volunteer Managers. Helen Reid – National Program Manager, Jane Boroky – National Learning and Development Manager, Ann Crummy – National Outdoor Manager, and Nicole Young – National Olave Program Manager are all nearing the end of their terms. They are each to be commended for their commitment to Guiding in Australia. Their contribution has been substantial. These roles are critical to the success of Girl Guiding in Australia.

The above National Volunteer Manager roles will be advertised across Guiding in Australia at the end of July. These positions are challenging, rewarding and exciting. Together, they will shape the future of Girl Guides in Australia. Here’s your chance to be part of the National team!

Happy Guiding
Rosemary Derwin
Acting Chief Commissioner

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