Community Housing Explained: Board Members

This practical online workshop provides board members with a clear understanding of how community housing organisations operate and the governance responsibilities that sit with boards. Participants will explore the structure of the sector, funding models, regulatory expectations, operational risks, and key areas requiring board oversight. Through practical discussion and a real-world board scenario, the session supports participants to strengthen governance capability, ask informed questions, and contribute confidently to effective organisational leadership. 

Why this course matters 

• Strengthen board understanding of the community housing sector
• Build confidence in governance and oversight responsibilities
• Improve understanding of regulatory and compliance obligations
• Support informed decision-making and risk oversight
• Increase board capability in interpreting organisational performance
• Strengthen governance discussions around tenant services, assets and organisational sustainability 

What participants will learn

• The role of community housing within the broader housing system
• Differences between social housing and affordable housing
• Community housing funding models and government partnerships
• Key operational areas boards are responsible for overseeing
• Regulatory frameworks and compliance expectations
• Understanding tenant services, engagement approaches and performance indicators
• Maintenance and asset management responsibilities in practice
• Interpreting organisational data, identifying risks and asking effective governance questions
• Practical governance insights through a real-world board scenario 

Who should attend  

• New board members in community housing organisations
• Aspiring board members
• Current board members seeking stronger sector knowledge
• Leaders transitioning into governance roles
• Committee members and governance volunteers 

Organisational benefits  

• Stronger governance capability across boards
• Improved oversight of operational and compliance risks
• Greater confidence in strategic and financial decision-making
• More informed governance discussions and questioning
• Increased board understanding of sector challenges and responsibilities

What participants will receive  

• Practical governance and oversight insights
• Real-world board scenario activities
• Downloadable workshop resources
• Opportunities for discussion and peer learning