6.0 Governance rules and policies

Footy game

Knowing the rules is important for winning the footy game. The same applies to the rules of governance.

To govern effectively, a nation, community or organisation needs rules and policies.

Today, many Indigenous organisations are developing their own governance rules in order to meet the many challenges they face—and that not only reflect Indigenous cultural principles and values, but are practically effective too.

This topic gives you an introduction to governance rules and policies—what they are and why they are important; where cultural values and laws fit; the particular rules for running meetings; and how policies are made and enforced within organisations.

In this part of the Toolkit you’ll find practical information, ideas and tools to help you get started on reviewing and building governance policies and rules for your organisation or nation.

You will find more detailed information and advice concerning codes of conduct and conflict of interest in Topic 5