The following information was released by Consumer and Business Services on 25 March 2020, for associations regarding COVID-19.

Due to COVID-19 and the restrictions now in place on public gatherings, some associations may find it difficult to comply with the legislative requirement around holding Annual General Meetings.

Where technology can be used, associations may wish to consider holding a 'virtual' AGM (either online, or via teleconference).

Associations should remain mindful of good governance practices - including appropriate record-keeping and giving members reasonable notice of meetings - regardless of the form an Annual General Meeting takes.

If associations are unable to hold an AGM within the legislated timeframe, Consumer and Business Services will take no action where AGMs are postponed for up to 6 months.

In addition, no action will be taken where a 'virtual' AGM is held, but does not comply with the association's rules due to requirements that meetings are held in person.

For more information, contact associations@sa.gov.au.

While Consumer and Business Services will not take action in related to non-compliance involving actions in response to COVID-19, this doesn't protect the association against any third party claim that the action contravened the legislation.

For more information please visit the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing website.

For further assistance, please contact your Regional Manager Ian Leeson. He will be able to provide additional guidance.