Membership Guidelines

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of these Membership Guidelines is to define the categories, eligibility criteria, rights, and obligations of all members of the Federal Syrian Community of Australia (FSCA), ensuring a transparent and inclusive process for participation in the Association.

1.2 Categories of Membership

Ordinary (Individual) Member
Open to any individual (aged 18 or above) of Syrian heritage or descent, or who supports the FSCA’s objectives.
Entitled to attend and vote at General Meetings and to stand for elected positions (subject to any additional criteria in the Constitution).

Business/Organizational Membership

Eligibility: Businesses, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community groups that support the objectives and activities of the FSCA are eligible to apply for Business/Organizational Membership.
Representation: Each Business/Organizational Member may nominate one representative to attend and vote at General Meetings on its behalf.
Revocation of Membership: If it is determined that a Business/Organizational Member (or any of its affiliates) has been associated with or has supported the Assad regime in a manner that resulted in harm to civilians, its membership shall be subject to immediate revocation.

Honorary Member
Conferred on individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the community or to the FSCA.
The Board (including Founding Board Members) approves appointments; voting rights may vary depending on the specific terms of their honorary status.
Youth/Student Member (Optional)
A category for members under 25 or students, with reduced membership fees (if applicable).
May have voting rights as determined by the Board or Constitution.

1.3 Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility Criteria
Must endorse the objectives and mission of the FSCA.
Must agree to abide by the FSCA’s Constitution, Governance Policies, and Code of Conduct.
Application
Prospective members submit a completed membership form (paper or online), including relevant personal or organizational details.
The Secretary (or designated officer) reviews the application to ensure it meets the eligibility criteria.
Approval or Rejection
The Board (or a delegated Membership Committee) has the final authority to approve or reject applications, providing reasons if an application is declined.

 

1.5 Member Rights and Obligations

Rights
Attend General Meetings and participate in the FSCA’s events and programs.
Vote (if applicable) on resolutions at General Meetings.
Stand for election to the Board or committees (subject to eligibility in the Constitution).
Obligations
Abide by the FSCA’s Constitution, policies, and Code of Conduct.
Act in the best interests of the Association and its members.
Ensure that any dues or fees are paid in a timely manner.

**Criteria for Recognition as a Syrian Community Leader

The Federal Syrian Community of Australia (FSCA) defines a “Syrian Community Leader” as an individual who meets at least one of the following criteria:

Receives a minimum of one hundred (100) nominations from members of the Australian Syrian community;
Is formally nominated by the Board of the FSCA; or
Is formally nominated by the President of the FSCA.

You can be a member by filling the online form