NSW Government Register of Boards and Committees

Overview

The Register contains the names and resumés of women from all walks of life including lawyers, company directors, farm managers and childcare workers.

Ministers and government agencies often consult the Register when filling vacancies on boards and committees.

The Department of Premier and Cabinet will, on request, identify a suitable candidate from the Register who meets the criteria for the position.

There are more than 1,000 boards, advisory councils and committees in NSW with more than 5,000 members. These boards and committees are diverse in terms of functions, form, size and the way in which they are directed, controlled and held to account.

They encompass boards of government trading enterprises, marketing boards, regulatory boards, professional registration boards, area health service boards, trusts, advisory councils and committees. They make decisions on practically all aspects of life. Most appointments are part-time and for a fixed term.

Women currently hold 37% of board and committee positions, up from 19 percent in 1995. While this is steady progress, women are still under-represented on these decision-making bodies.

Women who sit on boards and committees contribute to the community by putting forward views and opinions that may otherwise be overlooked. In many instances, they may balance the interests of more traditional decision-makers with different perspectives gained from their different experiences.

Who is eligible for the Register?
Anybody willing to sit on a government board or committee is eligible to place their name on the Register. However, the skills that are most likely to assist a committee member to make as useful contribution are listed below.

• Leadership qualities - Ability to promote a sense of confidence and stability in the organisation and its role in the broader community. This could be shown from experience in the public or private sector, trade unions or community groups.
• Strategic focus - A clear understanding of the market or community the organisation serves. This could be shown by managing a business or voluntary body or driving a change program.
• Business focus - An understanding and commitment to the business focus of the organisation from a management, community and general operating perspective.
• Team player - Ability to work with other Board members harmoniously while promoting vigorous debate when necessary.
• Capacity to learn quickly, handle complex issues and offer innovative solutions - Ability to operate in high-pressure, fast-moving environments.
• Management Skills - Experience in managing people, organisations, institutions or activities related to the board or committee.

Lead Agency and Further Help

The lead agency for the above is the Department of Premier and Cabinet . However, your agency may have a policy or a person responsible. Refer to them first.

• Regarding the Register, contact Boards & Committees - Office of the Director General, within the Department of Premier and Cabinet.