Postgraduate - UnitBTX5090 - Good governance and accountability in non-profit and social enterprises

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit examines the laws governing not for profit organisations including corporations law, Incorporated Associations Acts, tax law, trusts and the roles of various regulators. It also explores various techniques of good governance -- going beyond legal compliance -- including board procedure, reporting, stakeholder engagement and accountability.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. have a sound understanding of the existing regulatory framework for not for profit organisations, including associations, corporate, trust and tax laws, and how this framework both differs from and overlaps with business organisations
2. have a good understanding of the role and diversity of the not for profit sector in the Australian economy
3. have an appreciation of the unique governance challenges facing directors and managers of NFP organisations given the range of stakeholders and volunteers
4. have a good understanding of the regulatory challenges for this diverse sector, including the policy elements of a regulatory environment which might be conducive to an accountable and healthy not for profit sector
5. appreciate the variety of techniques of good governance -- going beyond legal compliance -- including board procedure, reporting, stakeholder engagement and accountability.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 20%
Take home examination or Research paper: 80%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Shelley Marshall

Contact hours

3 hours per week