Membership
Memberships
The VSA currently has 5 types of membership; Introductory, Associate, Full, Life and Foundation. Prospective members are encouraged to take up an Introductory Membership which will allow them to explore their personal interests over a 12 month period (or until the current year’s AGM, whichever is earlier). Due to insurance purposes all memberships are 18+, unfortunately we cannot accept junior members.
The Introductory Membership is offered at an attractive discount which includes insurance as well as a monthly newsletter, the quarterly VSA magazine (Nargun) and the quarterly ASF magazine (Caves Australia). Recognised recreation groups are also encouraged to join VSA as they can become official affiliated groups of the VSA and participate in co-organised activities.
Of the 5 membership types, 3 are available for a prospective members. Life and Foundation are reserved for existing members.
Memberships Fees
The majority of the memberships fees include a VSA and ASF components. The Total is the amount to be paid upon joining and when renewing. Introductory Memberships can be paid anytime of year, the VSA financial year runs from May to April. Membership renewals requests are typically sent in June.
Category VSA ($) ASF ($) Total ($)
Introductory 55 20 75
Single 45 70 115
Single Concession 24 46 70
Family 55 123 178
Family Concession 44 88 132
VSA Life Member – 70 70
VSA Subscriber 20 – 20
Introductory Membership Application Process
1. Download the application form from the Resources page.
2. Complete form and email to introductory@caving.org.au, then transfer the membership fees to the bank account listed on the form.
3. Once your application is accepted and payment received you will typically receive a welcome email from the VSA Treasurer.
To maximise your membership we highly recommended that you have a beginner trip or activity lined up before paying your membership fee. The most common way introductory members join is when they see a beginner event on Facebook or the Website and reach out to the organiser.
Otherwise you can send the VSA Committee an email, details on the Contact page. From there we can answer any of your questions and/or put your name on a waiting list for the next beginner trip.
You are also welcome to attend a VSA General Meeting, these are held on the first Wednesday of every month, except June and December (check the website calendar for dates and details). If you plan to come along let us know in advance.
After your first trip to stay engaged it is recommended that you keep an eye out for suitable trips and activities by Facebook and the Website. You may apply for Associate Membership during this period, but typically if you have been on 1 or 2 activities you will be offered to renew your membership after 12 months as an Associate Member.
Associate Membership Application Process
1. Be nominated by two Full Members who know the applicant and are familiar with their caving experience and abilities.
2. Upon approval by the Committee, Associate Membership is typically announced at the next general meeting.
This membership is similar to Introductory Membership gives you the right to nominate for Committee positions.
Full Membership Application Process and Eligibility
1. Have substantial caving experience, including multiple caves in different regions, gained over at least 12 months as an Introductory or Associate Member of VSA, or as a Full Member of another recognised speleological organisation, and have participated in VSA activities.
2. Be familiar with the ASF Code of Ethics and ASF Safety Guidelines: Code of Ethics, Cave Safety Guidelines
3. Demonstrate a responsible and safety-conscious approach to caving.
4. Competently use and maintain their personal equipment and possess a broad range of caving skills.
Additional Notes
(i) In exceptional circumstances, the VSA Committee may approve Full Membership for individuals who do not meet all the standard requirements.
(ii) As per Rule 3A(b) in the VSA Statement of Purposes and Rules, Full Membership must be approved by a majority vote of Full Members present at a general meeting.