EOI - RNSW Constitutional Reform Working Group

Rowing NSW is seeking expressions of interest from members of the NSW rowing community to join its Constitutional Reform Working Group.

Why a new Constitution is required

The RNSW Constitution is the organisation’s principal governance document. It establishes how RNSW is structured, how decisions are made and the respective roles and powers of members and the Board.

RNSW requires a replacement Constitution that:

• provides a contemporary and fit-for-purpose governance framework;
• complies with current legislative and regulatory requirements;
• reflects how RNSW operates;
• is informed by the governance expectations of the NSW Office of Sport and Australian Sports Commission;
• supports transparent and accountable decision-making;
• appropriately protects member rights; and
• supports the future development of rowing in NSW.

With specialist sports governance legal advice, an initial draft replacement Constitution is being developed using the NSW Office of Sport Model Constitution for State Sporting Organisations as its foundation. The model will be adapted to reflect RNSW’s organisational structure, membership and governance requirements.

Role of the Working Group

The Working Group will:

• consider the current Constitution as a reference point;
• review the draft replacement Constitution;
• consider the practical needs and perspectives of RNSW members; and
• assist with broader community consultation.

The review will take approximately six to nine months, with meetings primarily held online.

RNSW is seeking a balanced group combining governance, legal or constitutional expertise with practical experience across clubs, schools, regional rowing, coaching, officiating, administration and athlete participation. Formal qualifications are not required.

No final decisions have been made about the provisions of the new Constitution. The wider rowing community will have an opportunity to provide feedback before a proposed Constitution is presented to members for approval.

To express your interest, please complete the EOI form or access via the below QR code.

Application close by COB Friday 27 November 2026.

For further information, please contact CEO, Melissa Ashton-Garard at ceo@rowingnsw.asn.au