Resources & Insights

Practical thinking for the sector

Guides, sector analysis, and plain-language thinking on governance, grant writing, and administration — written from real consulting experience, not a textbook.

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Governance10 min readJune 2026
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Governance in practice

Many small not-for-profits treat governance as a compliance exercise — something to tick off before the AGM. But governance done well is the difference between a board that's reactive and one that's genuinely steering the organisation. It shapes how decisions get made, how risk is managed, and how staff and volunteers experience leadership.

This guide walks through the practical building blocks: clear role separation between the board and management, a conflict-of-interest register that actually gets used, and meeting rhythms that give directors enough information to govern without micromanaging. None of it requires a large team or expensive consultants — just clarity and consistency.

Read the full guide
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Grant Writing

The grant application mistake that costs organisations the most

Most unsuccessful applications aren't rejected for lack of merit — they're rejected because the need isn't clearly articulated. Here's how to lead with evidence and write for the assessor, not the organisation.

7 min readMay 2026
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Sector Insights

What the 2025 ACNC data tells us about NFP sustainability

The latest Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission data paints a mixed picture. Reserves are thinning, but organisations with strong governance frameworks are weathering the pressure better.

5 min readMay 2026
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Administration

Building an admin system that doesn't depend on one person

When the person who knows where everything is leaves, the organisation shouldn't grind to a halt. A simple, documented admin framework protects continuity and reduces stress for everyone.

6 min readApril 2026
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Governance

How to run a board skills audit — and what to do with the results

A skills audit is only useful if it leads somewhere. This guide covers how to run one honestly, how to present the findings to your board without causing defensiveness, and how to use the gaps to inform your next recruitment.

8 min readApril 2026
Community members gathered outdoors in a circle, engaged in conversation
Indigenous Organisations

Self-determination in practice: governance models that centre community

Governance frameworks designed for mainstream organisations often sit awkwardly in Indigenous community contexts. This piece explores models that centre community decision-making while still meeting regulatory requirements.

9 min readMarch 2026
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Grant Writing

Reading a grant guidelines document: what to look for before you start writing

The guidelines tell you almost everything you need to know — if you know how to read them. Here's a practical checklist for extracting the criteria that actually determine whether an application succeeds.

5 min readMarch 2026

New guides, when they\u2019re ready

Fee publishes new resources when there\u2019s something genuinely useful to say \u2014 not on a content calendar. Get in touch if you\u2019d like to be notified.