1. PERTH - MEMBER CONSULTATION FORUM
15 March 2018
Summary

2. Overview of Session
Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre, 21 Mounts Bay Road, Perth
6.00pm
Board members:
Peter Wilson & Caroline Spencer
Registered:
138
Attended: 62
Divisional Council:
Opened by: Dale Pinto
Topics Discussed
Process to appoint the Board, with a focus on models for direct election, Board composition and representation
Membership composition, growth and CPA Australia’s international presence
Director and CEO remuneration
Local networking and events
The role of Divisional Councils
Performance of CPA Australia Advice
The previous marketing strategy, and the need to restore brand perception
Process and priorities for appointing the new CEO
Staff support, engagement and organisational culture
Board transparency and accountability
Resources and assistance for divisions and branches
Life membership of previous Board members and CEO
Resources and affordability of the CPA program
The effectiveness of the quality assurance program

3. Summary of discussion
Members asked approximately 40 questions of the two Board members in attendance, Peter Wilson and Caroline Spencer.
The main topics and queries raised by members in attendance were:
The need to improve the appointment model for the Board and accountability to prevent the issues of 2017 being repeated. Models for partial direct election of the Board by members were suggested as potential options for Board appointment
The impact of recent press coverage on new and returning membership numbers
Membership composition and geography – including rationale for CPA Australia’s presence internationally
Remuneration levels of the Board and CEO – reductions to remuneration levels and new benchmarking process
Local networking and events – and opportunities to improve these for local members
Opportunities to improve availability and affordability of CPD
The need for Divisional Councils to have a more active voice for members, and a direct line of communication to the Board. The devolution of power from the Board to Divisional Council was also discussed.
Losses from CPA Australia Advice and its impact on CPA Australia's financial position
The discussion also covered:
CPA Australia’s previous marketing strategy – and the need for new marketing to focus on members rather than the CEO
Selecting the new CEO – attributes and priorities that the Board is looking for
Staff support, engagement and organisational culture – and how staff have been impacted by recent events
Whether further action will be taken against the previous Board and CEO
CPA Program – the need for alternative learning options (i.e. audio) to support greater flexibility
Resources and assistance for divisions and branches – potential for uplift in support
The Quality Assurance program – a Public Practitioner queried its currency and effectiveness for current business processes

4. PHOTOS