ORIC: WKSN AC Rule Book Amendments Update

The WKSN AC Chairperson and Acting CEO recently attended a meeting with Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC) about required changes to the Wagyl Kaip Southern Noongar Aboriginal Corporation’s (WKSN AC’s) Rule Book.

This meeting and associated work being undertaken is seeking to ensure that WKSN AC’s rule book is complaint with the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act) and also the obligations the WKSN AC has under the South West Native Title Settlement (SWNTS) Indigenous Land Use Agreement. The following points provide a summary of the situation:         

1. Implementation & Timing

• Initial implementation of rule changes was indicated for 1 July 2026

• ORIC has now confirmed the timeline will be extended to allow for meaningful consultation with WKSN AC members

• A procedural fairness process will be undertaken, expected to run for at least 2–3 months

• WKSN AC Elections should proceed under existing rules, with a focus on appointing as many eligible candidates as possible.

Registrar / Delegate Process

• The ORIC Delegate will review the rulebook with a fresh, independent perspective and issue formal correspondence outlining:

  • Provisions considered non-compliant

  • Provisions considered unworkable or potentially unworkable

• WKSN AC will have the opportunity to:

  • Respond to the Delegate’s views

  • Propose amendments where provisions are considered unworkable

Please note resolving this matter is important to the WKSN AC and please be reassured that WKSN AC will consult appropriately with Members on any proposed changes to the WKSN AC Rule Book, and members will get a vote on any proposed changes to the WKSN AC Rule Book.