All Co-operatives in Australia are legally required to have a comprehensive set of governing rules to ensure that both members, and governance officials understand their rights and responsibilities . The full comprehensive rules for The Pack Music Co-operative can be found here, however an abridged version outlining member and board conduct is noted below for accessibility and simplicity. A link to the 7 Co-operative Principles, which we expect all members to uphold, can also be found below. 

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Co-op Members and Board Conduct

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Member Types, Rights, and Expectations

Full Individual Memberships (Musician)

• Eligibility: Natural persons at least 14 years old, acting independently as solo composers or performers.

• Rights:

  • Full voting rights in general meetings.

  • Access to all member benefits and resources.

  • Ability to nominate for the position of member director if vacant positions are available.

• Expectations:

  • Actively participate in Co-op activities.

  • Pay entry fees and periodic subscriptions promptly (if applicable).

  • Maintain good standing and support the Co-op's objectives.

Full Joint Memberships (Ensemble / Band)

• Eligibility: Up to four natural persons collaborating as a group, either in composing music or performing.

• Rights:

  • One collective vote shared among the joint members.

  • Joint members can collectively nominate one member to stand for office if vacant positions ae available.

  • Access to member benefits and resources as a group.

• Expectations:

  • Joint members are jointly and severally liable for payments due to the Co-op.

  • Collaborate to maintain active participation and good standing.

  • Notify the Co-op of any changes in the representative member.

Full Corporate or Legal Guardian Memberships (Musician)

• Eligibility: Entities representing individuals under 14 or individuals with legal impairments.

  • Can include parents, guardians, trustees, or attorneys.

• Rights:

  • Voting rights on behalf of the represented individual.

  • Ability to appoint a primary representative and deputies for participation in meetings.

• Expectations:

  • Ensure that the interests of the represented individual are actively supported.

  • Pay fees and subscriptions on behalf of the represented individual.

  • Maintain good standing and comply with Co-op rules.

Associate Memberships (Business / Corporate / Government)

• Eligibility: Businesses or government entities that have a supportive relationship with the Co-op.

• Rights:

  • Recognition of the supportive relationship with the Co-op.

  • Access to certain Co-op events and resources.

  • No voting rights.

• Expectations:

  • Support the Co-op's objectives through collaboration and resource sharing.

  • Maintain a positive relationship with the Co-op and other members.

  • Pay any applicable fees or contributions as determined by the board.

 

Member Obligations

Active Membership

• Definition: Active participation in the Co-op's primary activities, such as contributing music for streaming.

• Requirements:

  • Identify with and support the Co-op's objectives.

  • Contribute artistic material for streaming.

  • Pay fees and subscriptions on time.

Conduct and Participation

• Meeting Attendance: Members are expected to attend and vote in general meetings.

• Dispute Resolution: Engage in mediation processes for resolving disputes, following Co-op rules.

 

Board Conduct and Responsibilities

Board Composition

• Structure: Comprises a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 10 member directors.

• Eligibility: Directors must be individuals, at least 18 years old, and of good standing.

Board Duties

• Management: Oversee and manage the Co-op’s operations and business activities.

• Compliance: Ensure the Co-op adheres to legal requirements and internal rules.

• Decision Making: Make strategic decisions through majority votes; the chairperson has a casting vote in case of ties.

Meetings and Decision Making

• Frequency: Board meetings held at least quarterly.

• Quorum: Minimum number of directors required for a valid meeting.

• Voting: Decisions made by majority vote, with the chairperson casting the deciding vote if needed.

Conflicts of Interest

• Declaration: Directors must declare any personal interest in contracts with the Co-op.

• Participation: Directors with declared interests cannot vote on related matters unless permitted by the board.

Delegation

• Authority: Board can delegate powers to directors, committees, or members.

• Terms: Delegated powers must be exercised within specified terms.

Remuneration and Expenses

• Compensation: At this time directors do not receive remuneration except for approved fees and expenses.

• Reimbursement: Necessary business expenses incurred by directors are reimbursed.

Chairperson Role

• Election: Chairperson elected by the board and can be replaced by ordinary resolution.

• Responsibilities: Lead meetings, ensure orderly conduct, and represent the board in official capacities.

 

By understanding these key points, members can ensure they fulfill their roles and responsibilities within the Co-op while the board effectively supports and manages the Co-op’s governance.