April 2026
Monthly Message to the Members – April 2026
Dear States and Territories
As we close out April, the AEBF would like to update all Members and Member States on the key activities underway nationally. Strengthening communication has been a major focus for us this year, and we appreciate the constructive engagement we are receiving from across the country. We encourage all Member States to share this Monthly Message widely with their clubs, officials, and players so our entire community remains informed and connected.
AGM Preparations – AGM Rescheduled to 15 June 2026
The Board has been preparing for the Annual General Meeting originally scheduled for 18 May 2026. As part of the AGM process, nominations for Board positions were invited in accordance with clause 12.2 of the Constitution. Unfortunately, no nominations were received for any Board positions.
Under clause 10.5 of the Constitution, the Board may postpone a General Meeting it has convened. Accordingly, the Board has resolved to reschedule the AGM to 15 June 2026 to allow additional time for nominations and to ensure proper governance continuity.
A revised Notice of AGM will be issued shortly, and Member States are encouraged to actively promote the nomination process within their communities.
2026 National Carnival – Ongoing Discussions
Planning continues for the National Carnival scheduled for November 2026. The AEBF has been in active discussions with several cue sport organisations regarding participation and event structure. However, emerging political developments at the international level—particularly within world cue sport governance—have created some uncertainty and may delay final confirmation of participating bodies. These matters are external to the AEBF, but we are monitoring them closely.
We expect to provide a more definitive update by the end of May once international positions become clearer.
Call for Independent Members – Nominations Committee
The Board is seeking expressions of interest from independent individuals to join the AEBF Nominations Committee.
Under clause 13.10 of the Constitution, the Nominations Committee is a standing committee responsible for ensuring transparent, skills‑based, and independent oversight of Director recruitment. Key elements include:
- Composition: The Committee must comprise three to five members, with an independent Chair appointed by the Board. A majority of members must be independent of management and of prospective candidates. “The NC will comprise three to five members, including an independent Chair… The majority of the NC should be independent…”
- Functions: The Committee is responsible for: • overseeing Director recruitment • assessing candidates against the Board skills matrix • determining candidate suitability • recommending Appointed Directors to the Board “…assessing all candidates… determining candidate suitability… recommending Appointed Directors…”
- Authority: The Committee may request information from candidates and obtain external advice to support its work. “The NC has authority to require information… and to obtain external advice…”
This is an important governance role that supports transparency, independence, and the long‑term health of the Federation. We strongly encourage suitably qualified individuals—particularly those with experience in governance, HR, law, or sport administration—to express interest.
Call for Independent Members – Independent Tribunal
The Board is also seeking independent people to serve on an Independent Tribunal to assess investigations and determine outcomes relating to recent complaints received.
Purpose and Importance of an Independent Tribunal
An Independent Tribunal is essential to ensuring:
- fair, unbiased decision‑making
- procedural fairness for all parties
- separation between investigators, decision‑makers, and the Board
- community confidence in disciplinary and grievance processes
- compliance with clause 7 of the Constitution, which requires: • written notice of allegations • a reasonable opportunity to respond • an unbiased decision‑maker • written reasons • a right of appeal “…an unbiased decision‑maker… written reasons… a right of appeal.”
The Tribunal will operate independently of the Board and Member States, ensuring that outcomes are based solely on evidence, policy, and the principles of natural justice.
Individuals with backgrounds in law, governance, investigations, integrity, or tribunal work are particularly encouraged to apply.
Strengthening Communication Across the AEBF Community
The Board remains committed to improving communication with Members and stakeholders. These Monthly Messages are one of several initiatives underway to ensure transparency and regular updates on national matters.
We ask all Member States to help us by distributing this message through your own channels—email lists, social media, websites, and club networks—so that players, officials, and volunteers across Australia feel informed and connected to the national body.
If you would like further information or wish to express interest in the Nominations Committee or Independent Tribunal, please email us at info@aebf.com.au or contact the AEBF Secretary.
We appreciate your continued support and look forward to providing further updates in May.
Regards,
Travis Crawley
President
Australia Eight Ball Federation