Who is NOSHSA?

NOSHSA is the National out of School Hours Services Association. Established in 1993 NOSHSA is an alliance of the peak Out of School Hours Services Associations in each State and Territory in Australia. NOSHSA is committed to Out of School Hours Services, their children and the families who use the services. There is no individual membership. The members are the individual peak bodies for Out of School Hours Services in each State and territory.

NOSHSA is a voluntary body so all action it instigates is as a result of the actions carried out at a grassroots level by the members in the states and territories. In taking action NOSHSA must seek approval and where possible consensus with members. Where there is a diversit of views these are respected and reflected in the advocacy work undertaken by NOSHSA.

Services who are members of their State/Territory Association have a national voice on Out of School Hours Issues through NOSHSA.

NOSHSA’S  GOALS

1. Represent the interests of the OSHC sector in Australia
2. Promote OSHC as a distinct and unique service type.
3. Act as an advisory and consultative body for Government.
4. Lobby and Advocate for the services and service users of OSHC centres.
5. Facilitate Networking between organizations and professionals with shared interests.
6. Raise the Profile of OSHC in Australia.
7. Analyse and Make Recommendations on Government Policy
8. Promote Planning and Development within and for the sector

NOSHSA REPRESENTATION

Delegates for each State and Territory are appointed by their State/Territory Association.  Each State and Territory can appoint a maximum of 2 delegates, however they hold only one vote per State/Territory.

Role of Delegate

1. To represent the interests of the OSHC sector at a National level on behalf of their State/ territory Association.  The delegate is not the member of NOSHSA, the state/ territory association is the member.
2. To provide a timely response to emails and issues arising for NOSHSA or to arrange consultation on the issue using the Network email links to members.
3. The delegate is responsible for reflecting the diversity of views across states and territories or the consensus of opinion when representing NOSHSA.

The position is voluntary and the delegates must commit to reading and commenting on NOSHSA emails or relevant documents and maintaining a working knowledge of issues affecting the sector, particularly in their own State or territory

Criteria for selection of a delegate is based on the delegate’s ability to undertake represent their Associations views at a National level, to have a broad understanding of national and state issues for the sector, a working knowledge of an respect for all Australian Children’s Services, an understanding of the political process, excellent presentation skills (both verbal and written) and experience in lobbying through participation in delegations and media.  There should also be no possible perceived conflict of interest with the role of delegate and other roles the individual performs in their work or private life.

JOIN YOUR STATE / TERRITORY OSHC ASSOCIATION

With you as a member, the lobbying power of NOSHSA increases dramatically.  Together, our membership can change policy.  This is our combined strength.

How can you make the difference?

• Be a part of this Australia wide organization by joining your State/ Terrritory OSHC Association now.
• Attend meetings and network with colleagues.
• Pass on your views to your Association so your concerns can be heard and acted upon.

If you would like to find out more about joining your State/ Territory Association, contact your State or Territory delegate.