Membership Qualifications (Clause 3)

A person is eligible to become a member if:

• They are a natural person (an individual, not a company or group); and

• They have applied and been approved for membership by the Committee.

Existing members of the association prior to incorporation were automatically carried over as members.

Application for Membership (Clause 4)

1. How to Apply

   • Applications must be made in writing, either on paper or electronically (email, online form, etc.).

   • The form and process are set by the Committee.

   • Applications are lodged with the Secretary.

2. Committee Approval

   • The Secretary refers applications to the next Committee meeting.

   • The Committee decides whether to approve or reject each application.

3. Reasons for Rejection

   • The Committee may only reject an application if there are reasonable grounds, such as:

     • The applicant is unlikely to follow the rules or objectives of the Association.

     • The applicant may not comply with the Broadcasting Services Act, the Community Code of Practice, or other laws.

     • The applicant poses a security risk to members or the Association’s assets.

     • The applicant was previously dismissed or expelled from the Association.

4. If Approved

   • The applicant is notified and invoiced for the Entrance Fee and Annual Membership Fee.

   • Fees must be paid within 28 days of notification.

   • Once fees are paid, the Secretary adds the new member’s details to the Register of Members.

5. If Rejected

   • The applicant receives written notice within 7 days, including reasons for rejection.

   • They are advised of their right to appeal under Clause 13.

Entrance and Annual Fees (Clause 10)

• The Committee sets the Entrance and Annual Membership fees.

• Membership year runs from July 1 to June 30.

• Fees must be paid by July 1 each year to remain financial.

📖 Key Takeaway

To summarise, membership is not automatic  it’s subject to Committee approval based on conduct, compliance, and integrity. Once approved and paid, members gain official status and rights within the Association.