Structures & Functions

The structures and functions of AMSANT are set out in the Constitution (copies are available from the AMSANT Secretariat - see contact details below).

Designated Representatives: each Member and Associate Member specifies one person (usually the Director or Administrator) to officially represent them at AMSANT meetings. Each Member or Associate Member can specify up to three proxies, any one of whom may represent the organisation if the designated representative is unable to attend. Note that while the designated representative (or their proxy) officially represents the Member or Associate Member, each organisation may usually send as many representatives as they need to AMSANT meetings.

General Meetings: General meetings are meetings of all AMSANT Members and Associate Members. They must take place at least once every four months, with an Annual General Meeting held once a year. General Meetings are generally held either in Darwin or in Alice Springs because they are the easiest places for members to get to, though other places may host meetings from time to time. General Meetings are usually called to discuss the current issues facing AMSANT and its members and to determine what action AMSANT needs to take to advance community control and Aboriginal health. At least five members must be present at a General Meeting. Members' designated representatives may attend, speak and vote at AMSANT General Meetings; Associate Members' designated representatives may attend and speak, but not vote. Note that AMSANT ordinarily works on consensus decision making, attempting to get agreement from all representatives on a particular policy or course of action; it is very rare for issues to come down to the vote. Members (or Associate Members) should contact the AMSANT Secretariat (see below) if they would like any item placed on the agenda for an AMSANT General Meeting.

Public Statements: No Member or Associate Member may make a public statement on behalf of AMSANT without the permission of the AMSANT Committee or the direction of an AMSANT General Meeting.

AMSANT Executive: the AMSANT Committee is made up of a number of full AMSANT members who make decisions for AMSANT between the General Meetings.