1. WEBINAR 3 - MEMBER CONSULTATION FORUM
19 March 2018
Summary

2. Overview of Session Board member: 19th March, 2.00pm Online Webinar
Peter Wilson
Attended Online:
169 registered
67 logged in
Topics Discussed
The financial position and future of CPA Australia Advice
Board appointment process and models of direct election
Engagement and branch representation of members in regional areas
Member engagement through Webinars and other forums
Continuing Professional Development
CPA Program
Marketing activity and expenditure
Brand damage as a result of the events of 2017
Retention of members
Strategy and support for public practitioners
Mechanisms for members to raise governance issues
Communication between members
Facilitating member discussion on AGM resolutions
Support for members on parental leave
Announcement of the new CEO

3. Summary of discussion
CPA members asked 29 direct questions of the Board member in attendance, Peter Wilson.
The topics discussed at the Webinar were:
The current financial position and losses of CPA Australia Advice were discussed, and how they can be minimised while the review is being conducted. There were questions asked about the timing of the review, competition between CPA Australia Advice and CPA members, the number of members that support the organisation, and when a decision will be made about the future of the organisation.
The Board appointment process was discussed. This included questions on the recommendation from of the Independent Review Panel that direct election not be adopted, and options for postal voting and other methods of direct election.
Strategies for engaging members in regional and rural areas, who do not have the same access to events as those in capital cities. The discussion covered the branch representation of members in regional areas, and the reduction in funding for local branches.
Member engagement that occurs through forums such as Webinars encourages opens and transparency. It was suggested the same format be used to discuss resolutions put forward to the AGM.
Communication between CPA Australia and members was discussed. In particular, how members have been engaged (beyond the Webinar) to discuss the proposed changes to the constitution, and different methods that could be take to facilitate member discussion on AGM resolutions and ensure there is meaningful consultation.
Continuing Professional Development, including the free CPD recently offered. This will be delivered via digital platforms.
Concerns about the quality of some graduates from the CPA Program
The marketing activity and expenditure related to sponsorship of sports teams and the Australian Open
Brand damage as a result of the events of 2017, and the activity that will be taken to repair this damage
Retention rates for members in 2018, given that a number of members may have chosen not to renew their membership
The changing environment that public practitioners are operating in, and the increased support these members require
Ensuring there is an ongoing mechanisms for members to raise governance issues
Support for members on parental leave, particularly in relation to membership fees
Announcement of the new CEO