About inclusive governance
Inclusive governance means making sure people with lived experience of disability are involved in decisions that affect them.
At Achieve Australia, inclusive governance is about removing barriers, sharing decision-making, and creating real opportunities for people with disability to influence how our organisation works, now and into the future.
Purpose of the Membership
As a Company Limited by Guarantee, Achieve Australia has members who govern the organisation and ensure it operates for its intended purpose as outlined in our Constitution. In recent years, Board Members have been the only members of the organisation.
A new Membership structure has been created to open up Achieve’s governance so people with lived experience of disability can take part in decision-making in a meaningful and supported way.
This introduces a new Membership group that allows people with lived experience to volunteer as Members and contribute to decisions that matter, without taking on the legal responsibilities of a Board Director.
It supports Achieve’s commitment to inclusion, respect, and elevating the voices of people with disability.
There will be a Special General Meeting held in late April. This will be the first time all Members will get together.
Benefits of becoming a Member
No previous governance experience is required.
Have a real voice in decisions that affect people with disability.
Help shape the future
direction of Achieve.
Build skills in governance
and leadership.
Learn more about how organisations make decisions.
Be recognised as an equal contributor with lived experience.
Receive training, accessible information, and ongoing support.
Benefits for Achieve
Inclusive membership helps Achieve to:
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Make better decisions informed by lived experience
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Strengthen accountability and transparency
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Reflect the community we support at a governance level
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Set a strong example of inclusive governance in the disability sector
What it means to be a member
Members are volunteers who take part in Achieve’s governance through agreed decision-making forums.
As a Member, you will:
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Attend two meetings per year, either online or in person
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Have voting rights on key organisational decisions
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Participate respectfully and collaboratively
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Uphold Achieve’s values of inclusion and respect
This role is voluntary and unpaid. Members are not Board Directors and do not have legal or fiduciary responsibilities.
Membership Charter and Constitution
To learn more about the Membership role, rights, and responsibilities, you can read:
Accessibility support
Achieve is committed to making sure Members can take part fully and comfortably.
Support may include:
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Easy-to-read and accessible information
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Clear expectations of roles and decisions
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Support before and during meetings
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Assistive technology if required
- Adjustments based on individual needs
We will work with each Member to understand what support is helpful.
Frequently asked questions
People with lived experience of disability are encouraged to apply. Must be 18 years or older. Family members or support persons of people with disabilities can apply. You do not need previous governance experience.
No. Membership is a voluntary role.
Members are expected to attend two meetings per year, with preparation supported by Achieve. You can attend either online or in person.
Yes. Training and support will be provided to help you understand your role and participate confidently.
Yes. Achieve will provide accessible materials and workplace adjustments as needed.
No. Members are not Board Directors and do not have legal responsibilities.
The skills and experience gained may support future involvement in committees or other governance roles.
Register your interest
If you are interested in becoming a Member, you can register
your interest using the Expression of Interest form below.
You do not need a resume. You will be asked a few simple questions
about your interest and experience.
Need help or more information?
If you need information in another format,
support with completing the form, or want to talk about the
Membership role, please contact us.
membership@achieveaustralia.org.au