Queensland Suns Strengthen Governance with Newly Registered Constitution

The Queensland Suns are proud to announce the formal registration and adoption of their newly updated Constitution, a significant milestone in the association’s journey to enhance governance, accountability, and future growth. 

Registered on 2 July 2025 with the Office of Fair Trading, the updated Constitution is the result of a multi-year review process led by the Queensland Suns Executive Committee, with the support of governance specialists CPR Group and in collaboration with Netball Queensland. 

“The QLD Suns Executive Committee has been working on Constitution review over the last few years. Thankfully, due to contribution and support from Netball Queensland, we were able to successfully update our constitution for our members in 2025,” said President Darren Gillespie. “This update will provide a solid foundation for change to support growth and improvement for our association for years to come.” 

The updated Constitution aligns with the Associations Incorporation Act 1981 (Qld) and introduces a series of reforms that modernise and clarify the Suns’ operations. Key updates include: 

Streamlined Governance Structure 

•  A revised management committee model consisting of 5–7 members, including a President and Treasurer, with clear flexibility around committee roles. Terms of office are now set at two years with rotational elections. 

  
  

Defined Membership Classes 

 Membership is now formally categorised into: 

• Ordinary Members (18+, voting rights, committee eligibility), 

• Junior Members (under 18, non-voting), and 

• Life Members (18+, voting rights, committee eligibility). 

 New procedures for nominating and approving life members have also been established. 

Clear Appeal and Grievance Procedures 

 Introduction of an independent appeals panel for membership disputes and an updated grievance procedure that prioritises natural justice, confidentiality, and timeliness. 

Blue Card Compliance 

 All management committee members are now formally required to hold a current Working with Children (Blue Card), ensuring compliance with Queensland legislation and best practice in child safety. 

Operational Transparency and Efficiency 

 Enhancements to voting (including proxy and electronic voting), quorum requirements, committee meeting protocols, and provisions for material personal interests, ensuring transparent decision-making. 

Improved Financial Clarity 

 The financial year now ends on 30 June, and the AGM must be held within six months. Financial reporting, declaration of benefits to committee members and senior employees, and proxy voting processes have also been clarified. 

With this new framework now in effect, the Queensland Suns are well-positioned to continue their growth, uphold strong ethical standards, and ensure inclusive representation across their men’s and mixed netball community. 

We encourage all members to review the Registered Constitution (2025), now available on our website.