» Link to policy: Diocesan Governance Policy
The Diocesan Governance Policy sets out the expectations of Synod in relation to the governance of organisations, particularly in relation to Christian leadership and conformity to the doctrine of the Diocese which are essential to the furtherance of the purposes and priorities of the Diocese, through the pursuit of the purposes of each organisation.
The Policy does not create legally binding obligations on any organisation, except to the extent the provisions of the Policy are included, or incorporated by reference, in legislation, an ordinance, constitution or other legally binding instrument which applies to that organisation.
Where appropriate, the requirement of the Policy may be included in a charter (or similar governance document) adopted by the governing body of an organisation, rather than being included in legislation, an ordinance, constitution or other legally binding instrument.
The Policy does not prevent an act or practice that is necessary for an organisation or person to comply with applicable law. Neither does the Policy require an organisation or person to act in a manner which is contrary to applicable law.
The key features of the Policy are –
- Four Levels of Organisation (A, B, C and D) with different governance requirements for each level
- Organisations are required to pursue their charitable purpose consistently with –
- Diocesan appointed board members –
- The Archbishop should usually be a non-member "Visitor" of the Organisation with various duties and entitlements, including those established by law for that office.
By resolution 35/24, the Synod has asked each Diocesan organisation to promote amendments to its constituting ordinance by July 2026 to achieve conformity with the Diocesan Governance Policy noting that where appropriate, provisions of the Diocesan Governance Policy may be included in a charter (or similar document).
The Diocesan Governance Policy was adopted by the Synod on 23 September 2024.
Further resources
Search and filter other ordinances, circulars, Synod records and reports at docs.sydneyanglicans.net.
