Focusing our Shared Life on Local Communities Responding to God’s Call
The Assembly’s new CGRA held its first meeting of 2026 last week, where they explored governance and resourcing reforms to better support local communities responding faithfully and sustainably to God’s call in mission.
February 11, 2026
by Dr Paul Minty, Executive Officer of the Commission for Governance, Resourcing and Administration
The Uniting Church in Australia Commission for Governance, Resourcing and Administration (CGRA) held a meeting on 1-2 February in Melbourne, to worship and discern how the UCA’s governance, resourcing and administration can more effectively support local communities responding to God’s call into mission.
Drawing on recent consultations, the Commission considered congregational and presbytery needs, financial and staffing pressures, and the risks of retaining current structures. Members explored several structural reformed models, testing them in workshops and small groups. They emphasised flexibility for diverse contexts, a strong focus on proclaiming the gospel, and governance arrangements that more clearly serve the Church’s mission.
Resourcing was a central concern. Members discussed funding models to strengthen presbyteries, encourage growth, and create sustainable national mechanisms. They stressed the importance of clarity, fairness, long-term viability, and a theological understanding of resourcing as enabling mission, rather than an end in itself.
The meeting concluded with agreed next steps for consultation with Synods, Presbyteries, Congress, Conferences, agencies and other groups. Members described the time together as hopeful, collaborative and encouraging, and indicated that further updates will be shared.
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you want to get the latest news from the Uniting Church in Australia then subscribe to our weekly newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Read more Assembly news
Celebrating INS 2026
Many cultures, one body: celebrating Intercultural Neighbouring SundayLast month, congregations and communities across the Uniting Church gathered to celebrate Intercultural Neighbouring Sunday (INS) – a day to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures and languages that make up the body of Christ and explore what it means to live our faith interculturally. Emerging from a…
Revised Code of Ethics and Ministry Practice to support ministry in a changing Church and world
Change to Code of Ethics for Uniting Church Ministers The Assembly Standing Committee for the UCA has approved a change in the CoE, effective 1 January 2027 Subscribe to our newsletter If you want to get the latest news from the Uniting Church in Australia then subscribe to our weekly newsletter delivered to your…
President's reflection: How can we love our neighbours well?
President’s Reflection: Threads of Love in Hobart and beyond God’s mission has always been shared. At Hobart North Uniting, President Rev Charissa Suli witnessed how different gifts and callings can weave together to love our neighbours well. During a recent visit to Hobart North Uniting Church, President Rev Charissa Suli was encouraged by a congregation asking…
Expression of Interest: Member, AFARC
A Committee of the Uniting Church in Australia National Assembly Initial three-year term The Assembly Finance Audit and Risk Committee (AFARC) is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified people who are interested in contributing their expertise to the governance of the National Assembly. The National Assembly includes the Assembly…
Giving thanks for Rev Pita Qasevakatini’s faithful ministry
On Friday, July 31, the Fijian National Conference gave thanks for the faithful ministry of Talatala Rev Pita Qasevakatini, and to commend Pita and his wife Tupou into God’s continuing care as they return home to Fiji. Congregations from across Sydney gathered at Parramatta’s Leith Memorial Church to give thanks to God for Pita’s ministry…
Season of Creation 2026
Christians around the world will mark the Season of Creation from 1 September to 4 October, joining in prayer, reflection and action as they celebrate God’s gift of creation and renew their commitment to care for our common home. This season incorporates the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation (observed 1 September),…
Presbytery leaders gathers in Hobart
Presbytery leaders gather in Hobart Subscribe to our newsletter If you want to get the latest news from the Uniting Church in Australia then subscribe to our weekly newsletter delivered to your inbox. more than The Uniting Church’s National Presbytery Ministers Gathering 2026 brought more than 35 leaders from every state and territory…
Position Available: Director, Identity and Mission
Join a collaborative, values-led team making shaping the life of the Uniting Church Hybrid work environment with flexibility to be based across Australia Full‑time or 4‑day part‑time option available The Uniting Church in Australia Assembly is recruiting for the role of Director, Identity & Mission – a leadership position that…