Committees
The Ross House Committee
Ross House, as a community building is managed by a management committee. This committee is made up of representatives of the members of Ross House Association, which includes groups who are tenants and groups outside the building. The Committee is appointed at the Annual General Meeting of members.
There are 8 members on the Committee as well as a staff representative. There can also be some people appointed to provide expertise. The majority of the members on the committee must be from tenant organisations. There must also be at least three members from organisations whose membership include people who suffer disadvantage or discrimination.
The committee meets monthly. The committee also forms various sub-committees to work on specific issues. The committee is resourced by the Chief Executive Officer. They are responsible for the overall management of the affairs of the Association including finances, staffing and the Ross House building itself.
In the recent past the Committee has drafted a comprehensive policy and procedures manual to guide their work; commissioned a long term building plan that outlines the capital works required for the building over the next 20 years; and, in consultation with the members, developed a strategic plan.
There are some very big issues for the Committee to work on over the coming year. These include:
- exploring the possibility of Ross House becoming the trustee of the building
- defining the membership and tenancy criteria so that we have clarity around this
- seeking funding for capital works that are urgently needed
- reviewing the Constitution
- conducting a sustainability audit.
The Committee is one of the key ways that members can participate in the management of Ross House.
Sub-committees
Ross House has sub-committees that usually meet monthly and are made up of Committee members, staff and other interested members.
Finance
Advises the Committee on budgeting and financial planning and regularly reviews the financial status of the Association.
Membership & Tenancy
Considers Membership and Tenancy applications and fee rates and reviews the rent system.
Building, Environment & Amenities
Monitors a capital works program, annual maintenance schedule and the budgets for these.
Community Development
Works towards creating a community of mutual aid and involvement within Ross House and creates links to the wider social change community.
Human Resources
Reviews, negotiates and make recommendations to the Committee of Management on conditions of employment and develops a Committee training program.
Governance
Reviews the Constitution to see if it reflects current practice and any future needs of the Association and recommends changes needed.
Executive
Considers urgent business and make decisions on behalf of the committee between committee meetings and supervises the work of the Manager.
Fundraising
Seeks funding opportunities for Ross House and promotes the association to the wider community.
OH&S
Considers and acts on any occupational health and safety risks or issues identified in Ross House.