The rules of the Shellharbour City Arts Society are as follows:

1. Membership is from July 1 to June 30 each financial year.
2. Those joining for the first time after March will receive 15 months membership.
3. Members are required to be 18 years or over at the time of application.
4. Only financial members will be able to participate in the function of the society, and vote in general meetings and the AGM.
5. If un-financial, members will be removed from the books on 30th September each year, and will be moved to the invitations email list. A member can request to be removed from all email at any time.
6. Members are welcome to bring a friend with an interest in art, to the quarter yearly meetings. Each visitor may attend two meetings.
7. Members will be expected to attend at least two meetings per year and be active in the society.

8. Members may participate in organised exhibitions once they abide by the set fee and/or commission.

9. ‘and’ the general rules of the society, including but not limited to, attendance at meetings and active participation in the society.

10. Members must comply with specific regulations as set by exhibition venues.
11. Members are expected to deliver and collect own work within the time specified on the exhibition schedule or arrange with another person to do so on their behalf.

12. Members may be asked to help in the hanging of exhibitions. However, a curator will be appointed for each exhibition and the curator’s decision is final in all matters relating to curation.

13. Members are expected to take their turn to sit the exhibition according to the agreed roster allocation (those unable to sit MUST arrange with another MEMBER to take their place or unfortunately, will be unable to exhibit).
14. Every effort will be made to include each exhibitor’s work, but In the event of an exhibitor’s work not being hung, a full refund will be provided.
15. An important aim of the society is to encourage and nurture those starting out on their art journey.
16. As members will be at different stages in their art careers, it is important to be respectful of their efforts and mindful of critique.

Code of Conduct

As a member of the Society, you agree to the following:

1. Respectful Behaviour

Members must treat others with courtesy, respect, and consideration at all times. Bullying, intimidation, aggressive behaviour, harassment, discrimination, or disruptive conduct will not be tolerated.

2. Compliance with Society Rules

Members are expected to follow the Society’s constitution, policies, exhibition guidelines, directions from committee members, and any procedures established for the safe and effective running of activities and events.

Repeated disregard for rules, instructions, or agreed procedures may result in disciplinary action.

3. Ethical Conduct

Members must act honestly, ethically, and in the best interests of the Society. Members should not use their involvement with the Society for personal gain or in ways that damage the Society’s reputation.

4. Cooperation and Participation

Members are expected to contribute positively to the Society environment, work cooperatively with others, and fulfil agreed responsibilities where applicable.

5. Confidentiality and Privacy

Members must respect the privacy of others and maintain confidentiality regarding personal information, committee discussions, financial matters, and other sensitive information.

6. Safety and Care

Members must comply with all Work Health and Safety requirements and behave in a manner that supports a safe environment for everyone attending Society activities.

7. Appropriate Use of Society Property and Resources

Society equipment, facilities, funds, and materials must be used responsibly, respectfully, and only for approved Society purposes.

Breaches of the Code of Conduct

Any member who breaches this Code of Conduct may be subject to action by the Committee. Depending on the seriousness or frequency of the behaviour, this may include:

• A verbal discussion or warning
• A written warning
• Temporary suspension from Society activities
• Refusal of participation in exhibitions or events
• Termination of membership in accordance with the Society’s constitution

The Committee reserves the right to take immediate action in cases involving serious misconduct, unsafe behaviour, harassment, intimidation, or behaviour likely to bring the Society into disrepute.

Member Acknowledgement

All members are required to read and acknowledge this Code of Conduct as part of their membership with the Shellharbour Arts Society.

By becoming or remaining a member, you agree to uphold these standards and contribute to a respectful and positive environment for all.