This resource addresses questions frequently asked of the ClubAssist team on director identification numbers (director ID), mandatory training, refresher requirements, director appointments and confidentiality.
When must a director ID be obtained?
Under the Corporations Act 2001, anyone intending to become a director must apply for a director ID before their appointment. Existing directors who do not yet have one must apply immediately via Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS).
Who must complete mandatory director training, and by when?
The Registered Clubs Regulation 2025 (the Regulation) mandates that all directors of registered clubs — or two directors of small clubs with gaming revenue of less than $1 million annually — must complete mandatory training within 12 months of their appointment. This also includes board-appointed directors.
The required courses under the Regulation are:
- Director Foundation and Management Collaboration (DFMC)
- Finance for Club Boards (FFCB)
Directors can also complete the relevant units of competency as prescribed in the Regulation. There is an exemption under the Regulation which directors can apply for if they already have the relevant skills and experience.
Directors of clubs with gaming machines have additional training requirements under legislation, including:
- Responsible Gambling Oversight Training (RGBO), or Responsible Conduct of Gambling and Advanced Responsible Conduct of Gambling competency training.
- Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Board Oversight, for clubs with 16 or more gaming machines.
Is refresher training required if a director has already completed MDT?
Directors who remain on the board beyond five years should complete refresher training, as legislation is constantly changing. This ensures ongoing competence in governance, financial oversight and responsible gambling practices.
What requirements do directors have to maintain confidentiality?
Sections 180 to 194 of the Corporations Act 2001 outline director duties. These include:
- Exercising their powers and discharging their duties with care and diligence.
- Acting in good faith in the best interests of the club and for a proper purpose.
- Not using their position to gain an advantage for themselves or someone else, or to cause detriment to the company.
- Not using information obtained in their role to gain an advantage for themselves or someone else.
Directors must maintain strict confidentiality in relation to any information they obtain or discuss as part of their role on the board.
What are the rules around board-appointed directors?
Under clause 26 of the Registered Clubs Regulation 2025, the elected board may appoint up to two people as members of the club’s governing body. The requirements for a board-appointed director include:
- Must be ordinary members of the club.
- Can serve for a maximum term of three years.
- Cannot be reappointed after their term ends.
- Must disclose any prior ineligibility declarations under section 57H of the Act.
- Their appointment details — skills, reasons, payments and disclosures — must be publicly displayed within 21 days on the club’s noticeboard and website.
- Must complete Mandatory Director Training within 12 months of appointment.
- Must have a director ID.
Key takeaways for directors
- Apply for your director ID before appointment.
- Complete mandatory training within 12 months.
- Undertake refresher training if serving beyond five years.
- Understand the implications of disciplinary actions on board eligibility.
- Maintain up-to-date records and seek guidance from ClubsNSW or your legal advisers.
Keep learning
- Company Directors Course™ — a five-day face-to-face course delivered in Sydney.
- Governance Foundations for Not-For-Profit Directors™ — a two-day face-to-face course delivered in Sydney, Dubbo and Newcastle.
- Mandatory Director Training — face-to-face and virtual sessions scheduled across all regions, alongside professional development courses and Club Education seminars.
- Bespoke training — face-to-face sessions for boards or regions with groups of 10 or more.
Need support?
ClubAssist is available to help directors and CEOs navigate governance challenges and strengthen board effectiveness. Call 1300 730 001 or email enquiries@clubsnsw.com.au.