What are the requirements regarding female representation on boards?
The Victorian State Government has advised that all organisations who receive funding through the Supporting Victorian Sport and Recreation program will be required to meet a mandatory quota of a minimum of 40% female representation on their board by 1 July 2019 in order to qualify for certain government funding.
The requirement is based on the final report of the independent Inquiry into Women and Girls in Sport and Active Recreation – A Five Year Game Plan for Victoria. The requirement aims to bring about cultural change in Victorian sport and promote female representation among leadership positions in the administration of sport.
How will the requirements be implemented?
It is intended that Victorian Government funding will be linked to the expectation that Victorian sporting organisations will have at least 40% female representation on their board. VicHealth will also apply the quota, with any new funding agreements to include a requirement that organisations commit to achieving the 40% quota by 2019.
When do the requirements come into force?
The current round of Sport and Recreation Victoria funding agreements will expire on 30 June 2019 so it is intended that the requirements will be introduced in the SRV funding agreements SRV which take effect from 1 July 2019.
How can your sporting organisation prepare for mandatory quotas for female board representation?
Implementing change in gender representation on a board can be a gradual process over a number of years. Change of board composition typically occurs at an organisation's annual general meeting, which leaves limited opportunities to align the board with the requirements before July 2019.
We therefore recommend organisations start taking steps to meet the mandatory quota as soon as possible. This can be done by tabling the quota as an ongoing item for discussion at board meetings, reviewing your organisation's constitution and reviewing board's current skill sets and recruitment methods. Vicsport has provided information on its website (https://vicsport.com.au/board-quotas) to help sporting organisations and will provide training and online resources to assist
If you would like advice from Lander & Rogers about these changes to the governance of your sporting organisation or wish to discuss the requirements for the mandatory quota, please contact Amelia Lynch or Simon Merritt.
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