Furry Friends ARQ is a not-for-profit organisation located in SEQ dedicated to minimising the large number of companion animals killed every year in pounds and shelters; and to educate people about the benefits of responsible pet ownership.

Unlike traditional shelter models, Furry Friends ARQ is wholly virtual, with animals being carefully placed with volunteer Foster Carers until they are adopted.

About the role:

The Secretary performs a key governance role within the organisation in both an advisory and a practical capacity, in particular: • Guiding FFARQ in meeting its formal requirements under its Rules of Association and ACNC; • Advising the President and other Committee members; • Overseeing and managing the Rules of Association of FFARQ in line with regulations, by laws and policies.

The Secretary will be responsible for a diverse range of duties, including the effective operation of the Board suite through efficient preparation for various types of meetings.

Key responsibilities are:

1. Perform the duties and responsibilities of a Secretary as required by the ACNC, the Organisation’s Rules of Association any other relevant legislation or regulation a) ensure statutory records/registers are maintained current. b) ensure completion and lodgement of statutory forms/returns and reporting under relevant legislation/regulation, including i. annual accounts ii. annual return iii. change in Committee members, Secretary c) support the President, FFARQ volunteers and committee members with Committee meetings, in particular, advice and assistance on i. committee papers ii. agenda iii. compilation/circulation of papers to Committee members prior to meetings iv. ensuring meetings are properly convened, constituted and quorate v. Minutes of Meetings vi. communicate and report action to give practical effect to decisions d) record (and advise ACNC where necessary) declarations/conflicts of interest of Committee members e) advise on adherence with the Organisation’s Rules of Association f) ensure that a true version of the Organisation’s Rules of Association is maintained and published g) assist the President and Committee members in the conduct of meetings and their directorial and governance obligation and responsibilities h) maintain membership register: i. ensuring the correct appointment of committee members, that they are: ii. not disqualified in law iii. eligible to be members under the provisions of the governing document iv. appointed according to the procedure laid down in the governing document
2. Carry out other duties related to the administration of the Organisation a) establish a timetable of corporate actions required during the year pursuant to Associations Incorporated Act 1981 b) report as required to Committee meetings covering such areas as: i. disclosure reports/ACNC filings ii. Presidents’ interests iii. changes in applicable laws/regulations c) governance i. support the Committee ii. maintain a governance/policy manual for Directors/management d) annual financial statements i. assist management and relevant Committee(s) as appropriate ii. provide information for President’s Reports & Notes e) annual report i. generally assist with compilation and ensure ACNC requirements are met f) general meetings i. oversee arrangement of AGM (and any other extraordinary general meetings) including due notice and preparation of agenda i. compile briefing notes as needed for President to conduct meeting ii. ensure management of proxy votes iii. ensure minutes are taken g) guidance to Committee members on compliance matters (to the extent not otherwise provided by professional advisers) h) liaise with accountants, lawyers and other professional advisers in relation to various corporate matters where necessary