Committees

The Ross House Committee

RHA is self managed which means that all the tenants have a stake in decision making and how the building is run. Representatives from the tenant groups and appointed members make up the Committee of Management. This means that the decisions made about the management of the buliding come from the heart of the community.

The Committee is appointed at the annual general meeting. 

There are three officers, six ordinary members and provision for up to six appointed members on the Committee, as well as a Ross House Association staff representative. Individuals may also be 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 forms various sub-committees to work on specific issues. The Committee is resourced by the Community Manager. The Community Manager is responsible for the overall management of the affairs of Ross House 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.

The Committee is one of the key ways that members can participate in the management of Ross House.

Current Committee Members

Rosemary Boyd (Retina Australia (Vic))
Chairperson

Esther Harris (Star)
Vice Chair

Treasurer
Richard Foster (Eco-shout)

Valerie Elliott (Handknitters Guild) 
De Grebner (Tree Project) 
Lyn Macdonald (Lotus)
Jenny Stewart (Union of Australian Women)

Kirsty Allen (Appointed Member)
Sue Healy (Appointed Member)
Cameron Neil (Appointed Member)

Amber Moore (RHA staff representative)

Sarah Day (RHA Community Manager)

Subcommittees

Ross House has subcommittees that usually meet monthly and are made up of Committee members, Ross House Association staff and other interested members.

Executive

This sub-committee is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the association between Committee meetings.  As well as overseeing the work of the Community Manager and developing a Committee training program it may need to consider urgent business and make decisions on behalf of the Committee in extenuating circumstances.  The Executive subcommittee cannot make binding decisions without any consultation with, or consent of, the Committee except in extreme circumstances relating to the safety of personnel, or the security of the building.

Finance

This sub-committee oversees the finances of the Ross House Association and advises the Committee on budgeting and financial planning, as well as regularly reviewing the financial status of the organisation.

Membership and Tenancy

This sub-committee researches, considers and makes recommendations for, the development of improved membership and tenancy protocols and services whilst ensuring that all current, and prospective, members and tenants adhere to the mission and values of the Ross House Association.

Community Development

This sub-committee researches, considers and makes recommendations for, the future development of opportunities for members to create a community of mutual aid and involvement within Ross House whilst simultaneously creating links to the wider social change community and encourages people to take part in the decision making processes as identified in the Ross House Constitution.

Building Environment and Amenities

This sub-committee monitors a capital works program, annual maintenance schedule and the budgets for these in accordance with all financial and Occupational Health and Safety requirements.

Fundraising and Development

This sub-committee seeks funding opportunities for Ross House, and promotes the Ross House Association in the government, philanthropic and corporate sectors as well as in the wider community.

If you are interested in being on a subcommittee please contact the Community Manager