Governance Resources
Thank you, for stepping into a vital role within our sector by becoming a member of your local neighbourhood house’s committee or board of governance. Your commitment to supporting and strengthening your community is deeply valued, and we recognise the dedication it takes to serve in this capacity.
Joining a committee—especially for the first time—can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot to learn, and the responsibilities are significant. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident, informed, and empowered in your role.
CHANH has developed a series of short guides and templates to support good governance habits and practice – use these to inform and support your committee/ board practice.
Keep up to date on sector developments and opportunities:
Neighbourhood Houses Victoria provides regular updates on upcoming opportunities, advocacy, training and legislative changes (and more!). We recommend that all committee/ board members subscribe to these updates – go to the NHVic Webpage, scroll to the bottom and fill out the ‘Join our mailing list’ form. NHVic also provides a Facebook Member Group and Finance Group, which are great places to ask questions and get advice from the wider sector.
Done that – what next?
Board and committee members are encouraged to access the following governance learning and support resources:
Film Series – Introduction to Neighbourhood House Governance
The following six short films created by Neighbourhood Houses Tasmania provide a valuable introduction into the nature of governance in the Neighbourhood house sector, and are useful to anybody joining their local committee of governance.
- Role of the Board
- Purpose of the House
- Governance and management
- Board Roles
- Financial Reporting
- Strategic Planning
Resources recommended for use by NH Committees:
This fantastic sector based governance manual is an absolute go-to for anybody starting out in a neighbourhood house committee: Neighbourhood Houses Barwon Governance Manual
Highly recommend all new committee members undertake this short introductory online course – its free, do it at your own pace, and it is sector specific: North East Neighbourhood House Network Self Guided Intro to Governance
Other Useful Resources from the Neighbourhood House and NFP Sector:
Neighbourhood Houses Victoria Governance Resources
Useful External Links Covering Key Information:
DFFH – Neighbourhood Houses Coordination Program
Justice Connect – Who runs the organisation?
Justice Connect – Handling Disputes
Consumer Affairs Victoria – Running and Incorporated Association
Amplify Alliance – HR for not for profits
Commission for Children and Young People – Child Safety Standards Resources