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The Astronomical Society of South Australia connects people with astronomy through meetings, observing nights, education, the ASSA Bulletin and member programs.

Constitution and Code of Conduct

ASSA’s Constitution sets the rules under which the Society operates. The Code of Conduct sets the standards expected of ASSA Council, Honorary Life Members and members appointed to non-officer roles.

ASSA Constitution

2026 Constitution approved by members

ASSA members unanimously approved the new Constitution at the Special General Meeting on 2 September 2026. The member-approved Constitution has been submitted to Consumer and Business Services (CBS) for ratification.

Status: Member approval is complete. Confirmation of CBS ratification is awaited.

View member-approved 2026 Constitution

By-Laws

Signed 2021 Constitution

The signed 2021 Constitution remains available for reference while confirmation of CBS ratification of the 2026 Constitution is awaited.

Download signed 2021 Constitution (PDF)

Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct applies to all members of ASSA Council, Honorary Life Members and members appointed to non-officer roles.

Everyone covered by the Code is strongly encouraged to read it carefully. If you have questions or need clarification, please contact the President or Secretary.

  1. Be diligent in your role:
    • Adhere to the policies and procedures established by ASSA.
    • Adhere to the requirements of not-for-profit organisations in South Australia.
    • Act with integrity and objectivity.
    • Act honestly, in good faith and always have the best interests of ASSA in mind.
    • Respect the equipment and resources of ASSA.
    • Declare any Conflicts of Interest, whether financial or non-financial, as they arise; record instances in ASSA’s Register of Conflicts of Interest; and act to ensure that these conflicts do not pose a risk to ASSA.
    • Always look for opportunities to improve operations and committee functions.
  2. Treat all people with respect:
    • Be open to feedback and respond appropriately.
    • Act as a positive role model with respect to good behaviour.
    • Treat each person as an individual and display courtesy to all involved.
    • Do not tolerate harmful or abusive behaviours.
    • Ensure your decisions and actions contribute to a safe, harassment-free environment.
  3. Always represent ASSA in a professional manner.
  4. When attending meetings relating to the management or operation of ASSA and/or any of its subsidiary groups:
    • Send your apology for necessary absences.
    • Participate fully in meetings by:
      • Listening to what others have to say.
      • Keeping an open mind.
      • Contributing positively to discussions.
    • Draw attention to any potential conflicts of interest that may arise.
    • Fulfil any responsibilities assigned to you at meetings and report on your progress.
    • For Council meetings, ensure you are fully prepared by reading the agenda, papers and any correspondence before the meeting.

Code of Conduct version: 31 August 2022.