1. BALLARAT - MEMBER CONSULTATION FORUM
5 March 2018
Summary

2. Overview of Session Mercure Ballarat, 613 Main Rd,
Golden Point, Ballarat
5.30pm
Board members:
Peter Wilson & Robyn Erskine
Registered: 13
Attended: 9
Divisional Council:
Opened by: Clare Lezaja
Topics Discussed
The impact of centralising delivery of member services, and reduction in budget
Decision making powers of the Ballarat Branch
Damage to the brand as a result of the events of 2017, and how this can be repaired
Brand marketing, including celebrating the diversity of members, and the sponsorship of the Australian Open
Engagement with universities and students
Accessibility of resources
Board appointments and various models for direct election
Diversity of the board, and ensuring a range of sectors are represented
Appointment of a new CEO
CPA Australia Advice

3. Summary of discussion
CPA members asked over 20 questions of the two Board members in attendance, Peter Wilson and Robyn Erskine. Members also addressed each others’ concerns and questions.
The main concerns expressed by members in attendance were:
The negative impact of the centralisation of member services and reduction of local budgets. This has left the Ballarat branch with insufficient resources to deliver the services that members want. Related to this, the decision making powers and autonomy of the Ballarat Branch has been reduced over the last few years
Damage to the CPA Australia brand as a result of the events of 2017, and how this can be repaired
Brand marketing, with members mentioned that CPA Australia could do more to advertise CPAs themselves, their positive contribution to the voluntary sector, and the diversity of the members. The value to members of the sponsorship of the Australian Open was also discussed
The need to maintain engagement with universities and students, as this is where our new members come from and where the academic rigour is maintained
The discussion also covered:
Accessibility of resources – resources are often on the website, but difficult to locate
Various direct election models for Board appointments
Diversity of the board - ensuring a range of industries and sectors are represented
Appointment of a new CEO – the timeframe for appointing a new CEO to the organisation
CPA Australia Advice – the upcoming review of CPA Australia advice, and the PSC

4. PHOTOS