01 About Us
About Us Welcome
We are pleased to have you join us as a volunteer and are excited to work together towards our shared goal of promoting economic development in the Canterbury-Bankstown region and beyond.
The Canterbury Bankstown Chamber of Commerce was established with the aim of providing the business sector with a common voice that listens to local business needs and advances their interests. We support our community sectors through direct advocacy to encourage local investment and work closely with local Councils, State and Federal Government representatives, and key stakeholders to focus on real issues that are affecting growth in our region.
As a volunteer with us, you will have the opportunity to advance your business knowledge and be present in our business workshops, panel presentations, and showcases. We tailor these activities to suit the requirements of local businesses.
You will also be promptly known as a credible, engaged member of the business community, committed to improving our economic outlook and seeking to encourage a quality life in our region and beyond. Through our monthly networking events, you will have the chance to build significant business connections, learn from industry icons, and gain perspectives and strategies to develop your business.
Together, we are building a vibrant and prosperous community through business leadership.
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at ceo@cbchamber.org.au or 0416 012 747.
Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to working with you!
02 Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Our Board and Chamber is largely volunteer-based. We are proud to have diversity in culture, age, and gender balanced.
Wally Mehanna, CEO
A founding Board member of the CBCC, Wally is the current CEO and the backbone of our operations. A connector who empowers others with assertive, clear and innovative strategies, he works tirelessly for the betterment of the community.
Bill Parasiris
Vice-President | Infrastructure & Commercial at Western Sydney University | Board Member
After a varied career in various industries, Bill is currently Western Sydney University’s Chief Estate & Commercial Officer, and founding Board member of the CBCC. He was involved in leading the delivery of WSU’s Bankstown y Campus.
nett n CEO | Patient-fronting pharmacist | ember
nett Group, Tracy prides herself on being a CEO and patient-fronting pharmacist Tracy is an nning female entrepreneur recognised for her siness acumen, superior patient care, her ons to the pharmacy industry as well as her ent to the community.
More Board of Directors
Our Board are active, engaged and visable. Reach out to them, they're here to help!
Antoinette Khalil
Principal of Khalil Lawyers Pty Ltd | Board Member
Antoinette has completed her Masters in Applied Law (Family Law) and is passionate about inspiring others to pursue their career aspirations whilst fulfilling their parenting roles as she herself is a loving mother to her
ciple Solicitor | Forward Legal Pty Ltd er
founding Board member and the under of Forward Legal, an experienced ve communicator and advocate for businesses in the community.
Geoff Gaymer Manager TAFE Services at TAFE NSW | Board Member
Geoff is a founding Board member and the Manager of TAFE Services at TAFE NSW, leading property and logistics for the Western Sydney Region. He’s passionate about quality education and supporting the community he’s lived, worked, and supported most of his life.
Jessica Wehbe Chief Exective Officer at Steel Renew | Stainless Steel Specialist | Board Member
Industry-leading client relations extraordinaire and passionate about helping people, Jessica Wehbe is well known amongst Sydney-based property and construction circles as well as charity organisations and various chambers of commerce.
03 Definitions Used
Definitions used in this Handbook
Volunteer
For the purposes of these policies and procedures, a volunteer is someone working of their own free will within this organisation, or for this organisation or on a project of the organisation as an unpaid member.
Copyright
Copyright is a collection of rights in certain creative works such as but not limited to text, artistic works, music, computer programs, sound recordings, and films. The rights are granted exclusively to the copyright owner to reproduce the material, and for some material, the right to perform or show the work to the public. Copyright owners can prevent others from reproducing or communicating their work without their permission or may on-sell these rights to someone else.
Copyright does not protect ideas, concepts, styles, or techniques, e.g. copyright will not protect an idea for a film or book, but it will protect a script for the film or even a storyboard for the film.
Client
An individual, organisation, or a Government entity to whom, for a fee, the CBCC provides referral, training, resource development, information and education services.
Discrimination
Australian law recognises two (2) ways in which discrimination may occur. These are direct discrimination and indirect discrimination. Direct discrimination occurs when an individual or a group are marginalised or excluded because of age, gender, religion, sexuality, cultural background, or disability. Indirect discrimination is less obvious and more difficult to identify. Generally, it must be shown that where a requirement or condition has been imposed which, even though neutral on its face, has an adverse impact on people with a particular attribute, in circumstances where that is unreasonable. As with direct discrimination, an intention to discriminate is not necessary.
Employee
For the purposes of these policies and procedures, an employee is a paid member of the organisation whether full-time, part-time, or casual.
More definitions used in this Handbook
Equal Employment Opportunity
Whilst this program is not an employment opportunity, placements follow the rules and guidelines of equality.
Grievance or Complaint
A grievance is a complaint, or a ground for complaint, against an unjust action taken in relation to the CBCC.
Member
A Member is an organisation or an individual, who is a financial member of The CBCC.
Position Description
The Position Description is the document detailing the work to be performed by a given position as it is expected to be performed after orientation and training. It also lists the skills, qualifications, experience and attributes required of a successful job candidate.
Volunteer
A volunteer is an individual who freely offers their time, skills, and services to support the goals and activities of CBCC without expecting monetary compensation.
04 Vision, Mission & Objectives
Our Vision and Mission
Our Vision is to provide the business sector in the region with a common voice, which will listen to local business needs, advance their interest and support our community sectors, through direct advocacy, to encourage local investment.
Our Mission is to be dedicated to providing a range of opportunities to local businesses, all aimed at supporting economic growth and development in the region. Through our initiatives, we help businesses to get their name out there, network with other local businesses and suppliers, learn about best practices from industry experts, stay up-to-date with market trends, and gain access to business mentorship opportunities. By cementing our sense of community, we aim to create a supportive and collaborative environment where businesses can thrive.
Our Objective
Our Key Objective is to promote and protect the interests of our members. Considering all related questions and issues, we aim to advance and develop trade and commerce in the Canterbury-Bankstown Local Government Area. We actively promote, support, or oppose legislative or other governmental issues and measures affecting trade and commerce. We keep our members up-to-date with industry trends by collecting, circulating, and considering educational information, resources and statistics. We provide training and education for the benefit of our members.
We engage in activities that support not-for-profit organisations and registered charities operating in the area, and we have the ability to purchase, lease, or otherwise acquire property to meet our objectives. By doing all such things as may be conducive to the extension of trade, commerce, transport, manufacturing, and industries in the Canterbury-Bankstown Local Government Area, we remain committed to supporting our members' growth and success.
05 Our Programs
Our Programs
The CBCC offers a range of programs and initiatives that are designed to support and promote businesses in the region. These programs include youth development, CEO for a Day, work experience, entrepreneurship mindset training and BRAVE. The CBCC runs a policy task force, organises roundtables and events, and advocates for businesses in the community.
We have a strong focus on building a stronger community to ensure the viability, productivity and sustainability of our business community.
Overview
The Canterbury Bankstown Chamber of Commerce is guided by a set of principles that reflect its commitment to ensuring strong relationships within and outside the organisation, promoting sustainable business practices, and building a vibrant and prosperous community.
These principles include:
We encourage our members to empower their community and be change agents in their own right.
We build relationships based on trust, honesty, respect, integrity, and compassion, recognising and promoting fairness and equity.
We are dedicated to strengthening and enhancing the communities we serve, improving the lives of individuals within those communities, assisting communities to flourish, ignite community spirit, and enhance community well-being.
We represent business needs, ensure recognition and support, and promote business to all levels of Government, delivering insights, expertise, and connections.
We foster innovation and an entrepreneurship mindset, encouraging our members to think differently, be creative, and embrace new ideas. We have a strong focus on sustainability and environmental initiatives, promoting sustainable business practices that help nurture our communities and planet.
We organise events and workshops that facilitate strong communication, connect people, and highlight to the broader community the strengths of the businesses in the region.
We meet our obligations and strive to fulfill our mission with the help of policies and procedures. Employees and volunteers are obliged to familiarise themselves with the key policies outlined in the handbook.
The CBCC strives to create a vibrant and prosperous community through business leadership, connecting people and building friendships, promoting sustainable business practices, and advocating for the needs of its members.
06 What You Need to Know
What you need to know
As a volunteer, you have the following rights:
To work in a safe and healthy environment
To be interviewed and engaged in compliance with equal opportunity and anti-discrimination laws
To receive accurate and truthful information about the organisation you are volunteering
To be reimbursed for any pre-approved out-of-pocket expenses incurred while volunteering
To obtain a copy of the organisation's volunteer policy and any other relevant policies
To have a clear job description and agreed-upon working hours
To have access to grievance procedures
To receive orientation and training specific to your role
To have your confidential and personal information handled in accordance with the Privacy and Personal Information Act 1998 (NSW).
07 Principles of Volunteering
The Principles of Volunteering
The principles of volunteering are:
Volunteering benefits the community and the volunteer.
Volunteer work is unpaid.
Volunteering is always a matter of choice.
Volunteering is a legitimate way in which individuals can participate in the activities of their community.
Volunteering is a vehicle for individuals or groups to address human, environmental, and social needs.
Volunteering is an activity performed in the not-for-profit sector.
Volunteers do not replace paid workers nor constitute a threat to the job security of paid workers.
Volunteering respects the rights, dignity, and culture of others.
Volunteering promotes human rights and equality.
Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct helps to define and develop policies and procedures in keeping with legal requirements and our ethical values of excellence, integrity, respect, collaboration, inclusiveness, and responsibility.
All volunteers have a responsibility to comply with legislation, policy, procedures and the Code of Conduct for the CBCC.
Volunteers should perform their duties effectively, provide impartial, accurate advice, and act in a manner that promotes a productive and harmonious working environment.
The Code of Conduct requires that in the course of their employment or engagement, employees, and volunteers of The CBCC must:
Behave honestly and with integrity
Act with due care and diligence
Treat everyone with respect and courtesy and without harassment
Comply with all applicable Australian laws
HANDBOOK
More Principles of Volunteering
Continuation of the Code of Conduct
Use the CBCC’s property and money efficiently, carefully and honestly with due authorisation and without misapplication and/or misappropriation
Comply with any lawful or reasonable direction given by a person with the authority to give that direction
Maintain appropriate confidentiality in relation to dealings with Board members and the CEO
Disclose, and take steps to avoid, any conflicts of interest whether real or apparent
Behave in a way that upholds the values, integrity, and reputation of the CBCC
Not provide false or misleading information
Not make improper use of internal information or disclose the CEO or Board or members' status, salary, power, or authority in order to gain, or seek to gain and advantage
At all times behave in a way that upholds the core values of the CBCC
While on duty externally, interstate, or overseas, at all times behave in a way that upholds the good reputation of the CBCC
Breaches of the Code of Conduct may relate to specific breaches of policies and procedures and may attract disciplinary action. Disciplinary action may include investigation, removal of privileges or access, repayment of monies, referral to Police in the case of unlawful behaviour, and termination of employment/engagement.
The CBCC values openness, honesty, tolerance, fairness, and responsibility in social matters. It is essential in such a community that all members recognise and respect not only their own rights and responsibilities but also the rights and responsibilities of other members of the community and those of the CBCC itself.
08 Key WHS Requirements
Key WHS Requirements
This refers to policies, procedures, and regulations that aim to ensure the well-being of employees and volunteers who work at or for the CBCC.
To ensure the health and safety of all volunteers, the CBCC has established a set of clear policies and procedures:
Work Health & Safety Policy: All volunteers must strictly adhere to the NSW Work Health & Safety Policy. A hard copy of the policy may be available from the CEO, ceo@cbchamber.org.au
1. Emergency Procedures: All volunteers must familiarise themselves with the Emergency Procedures applicable to the CBCC office building to ensure a prompt and effective response in case of an emergency.
2. Reporting concerns: If any volunteer is concerned about a Work Health & Safety issue in the workplace, they should immediately raise the matter with the CEO or any member of the Board.
4.
3. CEO's responsibility: The CEO is responsible for the Work Health & Safety process, which includes addressing any issues raised, developing procedures, and documenting such procedures. The CEO will communicates Work Health & Safety policies and procedures to the stakeholders on a regular basis.
The CBCC takes the health and safety of its employees, volunteers and Board members seriously and is committed to providing a safe work environment.
09 Access & Use of IT & Email
Access and use of IT & Email
CBCC volunteers are expected to use technology and email responsibly and professionally, if authorised by the CEO, while carrying out their volunteer duties.
The use of technology and email must be in accordance with the CBCC policies and must not compromise the security, confidentiality, or integrity of CBCC information or systems.
Access to CBCC technology, such as computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices, is granted solely for the purpose of carrying out volunteer duties. Volunteers are not allowed to use CBCC technology for personal use or to access non-CBCC systems or data.
Email communication must be conducted using CBCC email accounts and must be used for CBCC business only. Volunteers must not send or forward confidential or sensitive information to external parties, and must not use CBCC email for personal or commercial purposes.
Volunteers must take appropriate measures to safeguard CBCC technology and data from unauthorised access, theft, or damage. Passwords must be kept confidential, and volunteers must not share their login credentials with others or use someone else's credentials to access CBCC systems or data.
CBCC reserves the right to monitor, log, and audit technology and email use by volunteers to ensure compliance with this policy and other CBCC policies. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of volunteer status.
By accepting volunteer duties with CBCC, volunteers agree to abide by this policy and all other CBCC policies related to technology and email use.
10 Getting Started
Getting Started
Enrolment
Applicants interested in volunteering with CBCC can apply through the organisation's website, phone, or email. The CBCC will respond and provide the Code of Conduct, Rights and Responsibilities, and Volunteer Policies.
Role Allocation Volunteer
Roles are allocated based on individual preferences, skills, and availability of positions. After starting as a volunteer, individuals can discuss their interest in other roles with the CBCC.
Induction Volunteer
During induction, volunteers will be given a Position Description that clarifies various details related to the role, including responsibilities, expectations, and other relevant information to help volunteers familiarise themselves with their role. Volunteers will also receive a Work Health and Safety induction checklist and training.
Required Documents
Depending on the role applied for, volunteers may be required to undergo a reference check, a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check. These requirements will be discussed during the application and induction process.
Magazine
The CBCC Magazine is a monthly publication designed to keep our members, stakeholders, volunteers and community informed and engaged. It contains the latest news and events happening in our programs around Bankstown, as well as upcoming training and workshops. Additionally, it provides a platform for volunteers to share their own volunteer stories and experiences.
11 Volunteer Role
Volunteer Role Description
Volunteer Concierge
Your primary role is to provide excellent customer service to all attendees and guests at CBCC events. You will be responsible for greeting guests, directing them to the appropriate locations, and answering any questions they may have. You may be asked to assist with registration, distributing event materials, and managing the flow of attendees.
Responsibilities:
Provide exceptional customer service to all attendees and guests
Greet guests and direct them to the appropriate locations
Assist with event registration and distribute event materials
Manage the flow of attendees and assist with crowd control
Ensure that all event areas are clean, organised, and presentable
Be knowledgeable about the event and able to answer any questions attendees may have
Act as a liaison between attendees and CBCC
Volunteer Safety Marshal
Your primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of all attendees and participants at CBCC events. You will work closely with CBCC to identify potential safety hazards and implement measures to prevent accidents or injuries. You may be responsible for managing crowds and directing emergency responders in case of an emergency.
Responsibilities:
Identify potential safety hazards and implement measures to prevent accidents or injuries
Monitor the event for any safety concerns and take appropriate action
Manage crowds and ensure that attendees are following safety guidelines
Coordinate with CBCC and emergency responders in case of an emergency
Provide first aid or medical assistance if necessary
Be knowledgeable about the event and able to answer any safety-related questions attendees may have
VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK
Volunteer Role Description
Event Volunteer
You will play a critical role in ensuring the success of CBCC events. You may be asked to perform a wide range of tasks, including setting up event spaces, assisting with registration, directing attendees, and cleaning up after the event. Your flexibility, reliability, and willingness to help in any way possible will be greatly appreciated.
Responsibilities:
Assist with setting up and breaking down event spaces
Help with event registration and distribute event materials
Direct attendees and manage the flow of foot traffic
Assist with crowd control and ensure that attendees are following event guidelines
Provide general assistance to event staff as needed
Clean up event spaces after the event
Event Service Provider
You will be responsible for providing services to CBCC events, such as catering, audio and visual support, event rentals or others discussed with CBCC. Your role is to ensure that all services are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.
Responsibilities:
Provide the agreed-upon services to CBCC events
Ensure that all services are delivered on time and within budget
Maintain communication with CBCC to ensure that all needs are met
Provide high-quality services that meet or exceed the expectations of event organisers and attendees
Troubleshoot and resolve any issues that may arise
Volunteer Role Description
Volunteer Host/Mentor
You will be responsible for acting as a mentor to participant. You will work closely with CBCC and other volunteers to ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
Responsibilities:
Serve as a mentor and guide for participants in the CBCC programs such as CEO for a Day! and BRAVE.
Attend and participate in all program sessions for the full duration of the program
Uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect for all program participants. Provide constructive feedback to participants
Serve as a positive role model and advocate for our program
Work collaboratively with other volunteers, CBCC and community partners to support the success of the program
Volunteer Speaker
You will be responsible for preparing and delivering presentations or speeches at CBCC events. Your role is to engage and educate the audience on topics relevant to the event theme, and to inspire and motivate them to take action.
Responsibilities:
Be knowledgeable about the event theme and tailor your presentation to suit the audience and occasion
Use appropriate visual aids or props to enhance your presentation
Engage with the audience and create a dynamic and interactive experience
Be available to answer questions or participate in discussions after your presentation
Adhere to the allotted time for your presentation and ensure that it runs smoothly
Collaborate with event staff to ensure that all technical requirements are met for your presentation
Provide any additional support or resources that may be requested by the event host or CBCC.
VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK
12 CBCC Office
The CBCC Office
Walking Directions from Bankstown Station
Further detailed directions can be found via the website:
Bankstown Station, Bankstown NSW to Western Sydney UniversityBankstown City Campus - Google Maps
Nearby banks, shops and post offices
Banks:
Commonwealth Bank: 5/372 Chapel Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200
Unity Bank located at Bankstown 64 Kitchener Parade, Bankstown NSW 2200
St George Bank Central Shopping Centre, Shop 405-406/41 North Terrace, Bankstown NSW 2200
Westpac Bank: Bankstown Central Shopping Centre, North Terrace, Bankstown NSW 2200
ANZ Bank: Bankstown Central Shopping Centre, Lady Cutler Ave, Bankstown NSW 2200
Shops:
Bankstown Central Shopping Centre: North Terrace, Bankstown NSW 2200
Bankstown Market: 9/12 Restwell St, Bankstown NSW 2200
Bankstown City Plaza: 17 Rickard Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200
Post Offices:
Bankstown Post Office: 402-410 Chapel Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200
Bankstown Square Post Office: Shop ML 404, Bankstown Central Shopping Centre, North Terrace, Bankstown NSW 2200
FAQs
FAQs
1) What is the difference between a volunteer and a member of the CBCC?
In the CBCC, a volunteer is a person who offers their time, skills, and expertise to assist with specific programs or events on a temporary or ongoing basis without receiving financial compensation for their work.
On the other hand, a member is typically a person who has registered to be part of the CBCC community and may pay a membership fee to receive certain benefits, such as access to services or events.
Often our members volunteer for CBCC programs or events, as we have an extremely active community passionate about contributing to our local business community.
2) How can volunteers give feedback?
Volunteers can give feedback in various ways, including:
The CBCC can conduct surveys to gather feedback from volunteers. These surveys can be conducted through forms, email, phone, or inperson interviews.
The CBCC can organise focus groups to gather feedback from volunteers on specific topics or issues. These groups can be conducted in person or virtually.
Volunteers can directly provide feedback on their experience and offer suggestions for improvement to the CEO or the Board.
Thank You
We want to express our sincere appreciation for the hard work and dedication you have shown toward our initiatives. Your efforts have been invaluable in helping us create a thriving and harmonious community in Bankstown.
We hope that the Volunteer Handbook we have provided will be a valuable resource for you, containing all the information you need to be successful in your role. Your commitment to our cause is inspiring, and we wish you all the best in your volunteer journey with us.
We recognise that our volunteers are integral to the success of our programs, and we show our gratitude through a variety of events throughout the year. Once again, thank you for your time, energy, and passion for making a difference in our community.
Sincerely,
Wally Mehanna, the Board and CBCC Team
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