Have you ever been asked to become a member of the Parents & Citizens Association?
If you think of it as just an honorary title, think again. Being a member of the P&C committee certainly has its share of responsibilities and risks for you, as an individual.
In today’s 2 Minute Accountant, I’m going to help you figure out exactly what responsibilities and risks you’re personally liable for as a P&C association member.
Let’s get started.
I have two little girls and my six-year-old is in first grade. So, last year, at the Annual General Meeting of the P&C association, I raised my hand to be a Treasurer. I thought, with my vast business experience, I should be able to manage this job pretty well.
Here’s what I’ve discovered, though, it’s a pretty hard job. There’s an insufficient amount of support out there to help you fully understand your roles and responsibilities as a member of the P&C committee.
P&C Association Titles
Generally, you could be asked to take one of the following positions:
- President
- Vice-President
- Treasurer
- Secretary
- Or to be on a sub-committee
We have a bunch of different subcommittees in our P&C association, such as the:
- Canteen
- Band
- String ensemble
- Uniform shop
In total, we’ve got up to seven or eight different entities within the P&C itself.
You’ve been elected as a member of the P&C Committee. Now what?
So, becoming a member of the P&C committee is pretty easy. But what’s next?
Many people think their positions within the P&C association are more on the side of honorary titles. In other words, there are no “real” risks and responsibilities involved with such a position.
I’m here to tell you otherwise.
[ctt template=”7″ link=”f4p3j” via=”no” ]If you’re part of the P&C committee that hires people in any way, shape or form, you have a few serious responsibilities[/ctt]
If you’re part of the P&C committee that hires people in any way, shape or form, you have a few serious responsibilities. You can be responsible for:
- Health and safety regulations
- Workers’ compensation insurance
- Super payments for all employees
- PAYG taxes for the employees
If any of these obligations aren’t handled properly, you could be personally liable, depending on the specific role you have within the P&C association.
You might never have had any experience running a business before, or being part of a board which is regulated by some sort of legislation. Make no mistake, having no previous experience will not exempt you from any responsibility or liabilities.
It’s always best to make sure you know all of the risks involved with your role within the P&C committee. Otherwise, you could end up losing your family home, when all you wanted to do was do the best thing for the school.
You might also be interested in: The Tax Department’s Least Pleasant Gift: A Director’s Penalty Notice
In a nutshell: Make sure you understand your roles, duties, and responsibilities as a member of a P&C committee.
Discover what you’re responsible for as a P&C association member
If you’re a P&C committee member join our FREE webinar on Monday, April 18th and discover the risks that come with this admirable position. Do you know what’s really at stake? Join us and find out! Discover more here.
