ABV takes very seriously the importance of good governance to ensure accountability and transparency in all its operations. For this purpose, ABV is governed by a non-executive board which meets quarterly. The ABV Board determines the broad direction and policies of the organisation in accordance with the constitution. The board employs the Chief Executive Officer who is responsible for management of the organisation.

Board directors must be members of ABV. There are three categories of membership: Business, Association and Returned Volunteers. Two board members are drawn from amongst the Business members, two from amongst Association members and four from the Returned Volunteers’ membership.

Each category of membership elects only its own representatives i.e. Business members elect Business directors, Association members elect Association directors and Returned Volunteer members elect Returned Volunteer directors.

Volunteers are eligible for Returned Volunteer membership of ABV when they have successfully completed one ABV assignment. Membership of ABV is not automatic. Returned Volunteers must apply for membership and their applications must be accepted by the board. They are then eligible to nominate themselves or other Returned Volunteer members for the board and they may vote in board elections. Nominations for the board must be supported by two other Returned Volunteer members.

Board elections are held at the Annual General Meeting in Canberra each November.

Board directors may remain on the board for three consecutive two-year terms, after which time they must resign. However, they are able to renominate for another board term after a break of one year.

The Board Executive consists of the Chairperson, the Deputy Chairperson and the Treasurer. Nominees for these three positions are elected by board members following each AGM.

The ABV Board meets four times per year in different cities or towns around Australia.

ABV seeks certain key qualities among its board members. Previous board experience is highly desirable, as well as experience running a business, a sound understanding of the role of boards and the importance of good business governance. Board members do not “represent” their particular category of membership: they must be able to set aside any personal agenda and agree to work with fellow board members for the good of ABV as a whole.