In an Australian-first, Canberra’s financially-strapped and last surviving Services Club is re-defining its membership from defence personnel to the wider non-profit community and offering a share in 50 per cent of profits.

The heritage-listed club (est. 1948) has struggled since its original premises in Manuka burnt down in 2011. The club couldn’t afford to rebuild and is currently located in Barton. Two failed development applications later (to rebuild a club and hotel at Manuka), the club is still struggling.

The ground-breaking change means membership is open to all services – not just defence – including non-profit groups that provide a valuable service to “community and country”. Under a memorandum of understanding, the club will offer 50 per cent of profits divided amongst affiliated community groups.

Club president and former AFP officer, Jonathan Hunt-Sharman, said the changes were “significant strategic reforms” seen nowhere else in Australian services clubs.

“We are now a services club in the wider sense, inclusive of defence, police, emergency services and those who provide volunteer charitable/non-for-profit services to the community,” Mr Hunt-Sharman said.

“Our community incentive program is open to any voluntary group that provides a valuable service to our Canberra community. By working together with not-for- profit organisations we will strengthen our capacity to provide support and service to our community, the original purpose of a community club”.

The Australian American Association (AAA) Canberra Division is the latest community group to join, boosting Canberra Services Club’s 500-strong membership. AAA president Alicia Doherty (pictured) said the affiliation adds a further 70 members to Canberra Services Club.

Other groups already affiliated with Canberra Services Club include: Australian War Widows – ACT, Australian Commandos Association – ACT, Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans’ Association, Australian Special Air Service Association – ACT, Disaster Relief Australia – ACT, and Police Legacy.

“If we were in a healthier financial situation, we’d be donating to different groups anyway so why not have a much more transparent process,” Mr Hunt-Sharman said. “When [affiliated group] members use our club, we’ll identify that in a percentage term based on their members’ usage of the club and share 50 per cent of profits at the end of each financial year.

“Given the club’s not-for-profit nature, the revenue generated from these arrangements will enable the club to intensify its outreach and support for service support groups and the wider volunteer community in Canberra.”

The Canberra Services Club has reactivated its development application for the vacant Manuka site, for a community-based club and conference facility combined with a hotel.

With the Club’s newest affiliate being the Australian American Association Canberra Division, an American Independence Day celebration will be held at the club on the 4^th of July.

Community groups interested in the Canberra Services Club’s community incentive program can email info@canberraservicesclub.com.au