[Linux-aus] LA needs a new constitution

[Russell Stuart]

The ATO is requiring LA to make changes to its constitution in order to 
retain its Not-For-Profit status.

NSW Model constitution we adopted years ago doesn't have the required 
clauses, but the current NSW Model constitution does.  The LA Executive 
has decided to adopt the new one.  Mostly.  We are carrying across 
changes we made to the previous rules.

Continuing with tradition the adoption has been posted as a Pull Request 
(PR) on LA's github page:

     https://github.com/linuxaustralia/constitution_and_policies/pull/47

Following best practices of our craft this PR is a series of four 
commits, each focused on a single task, that transform the current NSW 
model constitution into the proposed new constitution.  Each commit is 
accompanied by a detailed comment (the "commit message") explaining why 
its needed and what it does.  That includes an in-depth explanation of 
the changes the ATO is requesting.

You can comment and suggest changes on the github page linked to above. 
In fact this is an appeal to all LA members and interested parties to 
engage in the process by reading and reviewing the proposed new 
constitution and contribute any thoughts you may have to the discussion.

As explained in the Annual Report and at the AGM, once the new 
constitution is finalised the Executive will hold a vote on adopting it. 
  The ATO insists we must make the required changes by 30 June in order 
keep our Not-For-Profit status.

We need to get this done.  All help in making that happen is greatly 
appreciated.


-- 
Russell Stuart
Treasurer, Linux Australia
+61 438 805 133