Demystifying Quoracy and Dispensation

The course explains how quoracy is defined in legislation, how to calculate it for each council, and how factors such as vacancies, apologies, DPIs or temporary disqualification can alter the quorum. It also sets out the correct procedure where a meeting is, or becomes, inquorate and the requirements for accurate minute-taking.

Dispensations are explored through their legal basis, statutory criteria, and practical application in scenarios where conflicts of interest could prevent lawful decision-making. Case examples help councils understand when a dispensation may be justified and how to record decisions in a way that withstands scrutiny.

Course focus:

• Legislative requirements for quorum and managing inquorate meetings
• How quoracy can change unexpectedly
• Legal framework for dispensations and statutory decision criteria
• Recording decisions transparently to reduce governance risk

Aimed at councils seeking to reinforce robust governance and ensure meetings remain compliant.