Membership Audits
1. What is a Membership Audit Interview?
A Membership Audit Interview is a confidential conversation between a Kinaway staff member and an existing or prospective member, conducted as part of Kinaway's certification process. Its purpose is to verify that your business continues to meet Kinaway's membership criteria that is, that your business remains majority (51% or more) owned and operated by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, is Victorian-based, and operates as a for-profit enterprise.
The interview is not a test. It is an opportunity for Kinaway to better understand your business, confirm the accuracy of your membership details, and ensure the integrity of our certified member directory so that corporate and government buyers can continue to engage with our members with confidence.
You may be asked about your business structure, ownership, operations, identity (including your Confirmation or Certificate of Aboriginality), and any changes since your last application or renewal. The process is straightforward, supportive, and grounded in Kinaway's commitment to walking alongside you in your business journey.
2. Purpose
Kinaway's Membership Audit Interview exists to protect the integrity of our certified member directory and uphold the trust that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses have placed in us. Government agencies and corporate buyers engage with Kinaway members with the confidence that every business listed has been verified as at least 51% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander owned and operated.
The audit process ensures that this standard is maintained, that our directory remains credible, and that the economic opportunities we create flow to the right businesses and communities.
4. How Members Are Notified
Members will be notified of their upcoming Membership Audit Interview in writing, with a minimum of 14 days' notice. The notification will include:
The date, time, and format of the interview (whether in person, by phone, or online)
The name of the Kinaway staff member or Board representative conducting the interview
A checklist of documents to have ready
If you need to reschedule, please contact Kinaway as soon as possible at companysecretary@kinaway.com.au or call (03) 7047 8120.
6. What Happens After?
Following your Membership Audit Interview, one of three outcomes will apply:
Confirmed
Your membership is verified and remains active. No further action is required.
Further Information Required
Kinaway may request additional documentation or a follow-up conversation before a final determination is made. You will be given a clear timeframe to provide what is needed.
Membership Suspended or Cancelled
Where a member no longer meets Kinaway's eligibility criteria, membership may be suspended or cancelled. You will be notified in writing with the reasons for this decision and information about your right to appeal.
Kinaway is committed to handling all audit outcomes with fairness, cultural sensitivity, and respect. If you have any concerns at any stage of the process, please do not hesitate to
contact us.
3. Who Gets Audited?
All Kinaway members are subject to the audit process. Audits may be conducted at the following times:
Upon initial application for membership
At the time of annual membership renewal
Where Kinaway becomes aware of a change in business structure, ownership, or operations that may affect eligibility
On a random or as-needed basis to maintain the ongoing integrity of the directory
5. What to Bring / Prepare
To ensure your audit interview runs smoothly, please have the following ready:
A valid Confirmation of Aboriginality issued by a recognised certifying body, such as a Local Aboriginal Land Council or an incorporated Indigenous organisation
A current and historical ASIC extract confirming your business structure and ownership
Any updates to your business details, including changes to ownership percentages, directors, trading name, or business address
Evidence that your business remains Victorian-based and is actively operating
Any additional governance documents Kinaway may have requested in your notification
If your circumstances have changed since your last application or renewal, we encourage you to reach out to us ahead of your interview so we can support you through the process.
7. Conflict of Interest
- Board Member Participation
Kinaway is committed to ensuring that all Membership Audit Interviews are conducted with fairness, transparency, and integrity.
As Kinaway Board members are also members of the Chamber, a conflict of interest may arise where a Board member operates in the same or similar industry as the member undergoing an audit interview. In such circumstances, the relevant Board member must declare the conflict of interest and will be excused from participating in any decision regarding the outcome of that audit process. The Board member may otherwise continue to participate in the audit process.
Any actual, perceived, or potential conflict of interest will be formally declared prior to the commencement of the audit interview. This declaration will be recorded and retained for transparency and governance purposes.
This policy ensures that all members including those who serve on the Board are treated equitably and that the integrity of Kinaway's certification process is always upheld.
8. What Happens After?
All information shared during a Membership Audit Interview is treated with the utmost confidentiality. Your documentation and personal details will only be accessed by authorised Kinaway staff and Board members directly involved in the audit process and will be handled in accordance with Kinaway's Privacy Policy.
Addittional Information
Membership Criteria
There are three eligibility requirements:
Majority Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander-owned and operated Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people must own and operate at least 51% of the business.
Victorian-based business must be primarily located in Victoria and creating employment opportunities for Aboriginal people living in Victoria.
For-profit business- business cannot be a charitable organisation or a not-for-profit.
Documents required. Required Documents
Confirmation of Aboriginality A valid Confirmation of Aboriginality from a recognised certifying body, such as a Local Aboriginal Land Council or an incorporated Indigenous organisation. If you are unable to meet this requirement, you can contact Kinaway directly.
Current & Historical ASIC Extract This is used to verify ownership and structure of the business. Kinaway may also request other governance documents to assess operations and eligibility.
Business partnership agreement or shareholder register (to verify the 51% Indigenous ownership)
Company constitution or trust deed (if applicable)
Victorian-Based Evidence
Proof of business address in Victoria (e.g. utility bill, lease agreement, or rates notice)
Business registration showing Victorian address
The Application Process
Submit your application — Complete the application form accurately and attach all required documentation.
Kinaway reviews your application — The Kinaway Board considers the application to ensure membership qualifications are met. The wait period is 6–8 weeks.
You become a member — Once approved, you'll be added to the Membership Directory and can access all member benefits.