Our Charter

This Charter affirms the purpose, values and objectives of Brisbane West Senior Citizens Centre Incorporated (BWSCC Inc), the not-for-profit, incorporated community organisation whose members are responsible for the use, maintenance and management of the BrisWest Centre at 132 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington Queensland.

Mission

To provide an environment of mutuality and inclusion, where elders can gather, engage and thrive in community with people of all generations.

Vision

To be a vibrant, welcoming, and community-managed space that fosters connection, creativity, contribution, and care for all, especially seniors.

3 Brisbane West Senior Citizens Centre Incorporated Members at a meeting

Core Values

  • Mutual respect, care and compassion

  • Inclusion and non-discrimination

  • Honest, open and transparent governance

  • Stewardship of community assets

  • Love, generosity and community empowerment

Circle of People in discussion at Australia Becoming with Mary Graham and Leanne Levinge

Membership

All community members are welcome, and hall hirers are encouraged, to become members of Brisbane West Senior Citizens Centre Incorporated (BWSCC Inc) to more actively contribute to the Centre’s mission, community life and governance.

Seniors enjoying BrisWest Centre Over 50's Coffee Club

Activities and Use of Space

  • Operates on mutuality – everyone contributes and participates as they are able.

  • Is maintained and improved through community effort and generosity.

  • Is a place to gather, share, and belong.

  • Supports member and community-led activities that are creative, cultural, recreational, and civic.

  • Welcomes use by the wider community and encourages interaction across all demographics.

Women selling items at Excess Baggage Secondhand Market
A group of people who love doing Zumba at BrisWest Centre

Objectives

  1. Establish and operate a centre in Paddington, Brisbane, predominantly for the benefit of persons aged 50 years and over.

  2. Provide facilities and encourage activities that promote wellbeing, enjoyment, and active participation.

  3. Foster community interaction, creativity, and sharing across all generations.

  4. Host events that encourage democratic engagement and community empowerment.

  5. Promote public interest, membership, and active stewardship of the organisation and its spaces.’

  6. Ensure equality of access, participation, and opportunity for all.

  7. Share the story and legacy of the centre as a gift from the Whitlam Government to working-class seniors.

A group of people singing together

Goverance and Committee

The BrisWest Centre is governed by an elected Committee from the membership of BWSCC Inc. Committee members are caretakers of the organisation and its assets and act in alignment with the Constitution and this Charter.

The Committee ensures:

  • Governance in line with Queensland regulations.

  • Transparent financial and operational management.

  • That all committee members receive appropriate training and support.

  • Succession planning to ensure ongoing community leadership.

The Committee meets approximately every six weeks, with a two-month summer break.

Two (2) General Meetings (typically July and December) and an Annual General Meeting (AGM) are also held.

Communications and Promotions

The Centre promotes its mission, activities, and events in a welcoming and accessible way, seeking to foster community involvement and engagement from across the region.