1 THE NAME OF THE SOCIETY

The name of the Society shall be "The Balint Society of Australia", in acknowledgement of Michael Balint, who developed a unique method for studying and teaching the doctor-patient relationship.

2 THE PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF THE SOCIETY

The primary purpose of the Society shall be to promote and advance research, studies and training in the psychological aspects of health care and, in particular, general practice, with special reference to the doctor-patient relationship, and to disseminate this knowledge beyond the Society for improvement of health care of the public at large.

In furtherance of this purpose, the Society shall:

(a) educate medical practitioners, health care organisations and other interested professionals about the Balint method of training/research,

(b) develop and present workshops, seminars and other methods for training, supporting and supervising those wishing to start and lead Balint groups,

(c) publish a Society newsletter and other materials relevant to Balint work in Australia,

(d) provide methods of linking those participating and those interested in participating in Balint group training for mutual support, supervision and collaboration,

(e) maintain relationships with the International Balint Federation and other organisations interested in exploring the therapeutic use of the doctor-patient relationship,

(f) promote and support research on the Balint group method,

(g) establish standards of leadership and certification processes of leaders, and,

(h) develop and enrich the Balint group method.

3 STATEMENT OF NOT-FOR-PROFIT STATUS

The Society shall be organised as a not-for-profit organisation and individual members will not derive profit from involvement in the Society's affairs.

4 MEMBERSHIP OF THE SOCIETY

Membership of the Society shall consist of Ordinary and Honorary members:

(a) Ordinary membership shall be open to individuals who are professionals working with patients in health care settings and who submit a completed application form to the Secretary and pay the Society's dues to the Treasurer. The rights and obligations of Ordinary members are as provided for in the Rules of the Society under the Associations Incorporation Act (1981).

(b) Honorary membership shall be open to persons considered to be of outstanding merit by the Society. Honorary members need not pay annual dues, nor may they hold office or vote.

5 AFFAIRS OF THE SOCIETY

The affairs of the Society shall be managed by a Committee in accordance with the provisions of the Associations Incorporation Act (1981).

6 STATEMENT OF DISSOLUTION/AMENDMENT

The Society may at any time be dissolved in accordance with the provisions of the Associations Incorporation Act (1981).

This Constitution may be amended at any time in accordance with the provisions of the Associations Incorporation Act (1981).