Good governance starts with good decisions. Clubs that make clear, fair and well-documented decisions are more likely to succeed and keep members engaged.

Why decision-making matters

Effective decision-making helps your club:

• stay focused on long-term goals
• manage risks and resources wisely
• build trust and transparency
• ensure fair outcomes for all members.

All decisions should follow your club’s constitution and respect principles of natural justice and accountability – especially for disciplinary actions and financial matters.

Include diverse voices

Diverse governance leads to better decisions. A mix of skills, backgrounds and experiences helps your club see issues from different angles.

To support inclusive decision-making:

• actively seek and include voices and experiences from diverse cultural backgrounds
• include Māori in all consultations and decision-making processes
• encourage input from committee members, volunteers, coaches and players
• consider multiple perspectives before making a decision
• document decisions and the reasons behind them
• record any dissenting views for transparency.

Download: Pros and cons & Grid analysis tools

Download: group decision-making framework

Common decision-making models

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Choose a model that suits your club’s needs.

Rational model

• Compares options using objective criteria
• Uses data like financial reports
• Aligns choices with club goals

Intuitive model

• Based on gut feeling and group experience
• Considers broader context
• Relies on shared values and judgement

Why decisions can be difficult 

Clubs may struggle to make decisions when:

• there’s no clear goal or plan
• leadership is unclear or ineffective
• decision-making processes aren’t defined
• loyalties or interests clash
• people feel unsafe expressing different views
• cultural differences aren’t respected
• hidden agendas influence outcomes
• fear of consequences blocks action
• the process feels too slow or complex

Key actions for clubs

• Follow your constitution and governance policies
• Use a clear process for all decisions
• Encourage diverse input and respectful debate
• Keep records of decisions and rationale
• Use decision-making tools to guide complex choices.

Tools to support your decision-making processes 

Decision-making and supporting board papers provides guidance on decision-making approaches, and how to develop effective board papers to guide your decision-making.

CommunityNet Aotearoa Decision rules

Australian Sports Commission – Operational development decision-making guide