Starting a Group

Starting a Community Group

Community Groups & Clubs are a great way to get involved in your local community.

Have you thought about starting up a community group? It is more than likely that you share hobbies or interests with other members of your new and local community.

What is a Community Group?

Community groups can take many difference forms such as walking and jogging clubs, mothers groups, play groups, book groups, historical groups and community associations. The list is only limited by your imagination!

At Varsity Lakes, we can help you establish your community group. Our Community team can help you find out what groups are currently located in the area and what hobbies or activities residents have registered interest in.

Establishing a Community Group

Name/Identity:
Once you have created the group name/identity it may be a good idea to register the name with the Department of Fair Trading.

Incorporated vs Unincorporated:
Most small community groups register as incorporated associations. Benefits include being eligible for non-profit status and limited financial liability for board members. Being incorporated means that you can apply for grants or funding. However, you will need public liability insurance, a constitution and up to seven board members.

Constitution:
The constitution outlines what the group is setting out to achieve and also includes information on how the group will be run such as: number of board members and roles, profit/non-profit status, frequency of annual general meetings, etc. The constitution should also outline your mission statement.

Mission Statement:
The mission statement clearly states the aims and objectives of the group.

Budget:
It is recommended a budget will need to be set in order to keep track of money coming into the organisation vs. expenditure and to plan for future activities or events.