Stipend Review

The Baptist Union of Victoria is undertaking a review of the Guidelines for Churches and Pastors: Stipends, Conditions & Statement of Understanding.

As part of the review process we are seeking the input of all our pastors via an online survey (see link below) of pastor’s wellbeing, current conditions in your church and desired conditions. Please take time to complete this short (approx 10 minute) survey by FRIDAY 18 SEPTEMBER. Your opinion is valuable to us.

Pastors Stipend Survey

This Stipend review originated from many conversations about terms and conditions, manses, stress and leave, and general remuneration. Through this process of reviewing the guidelines, we hope to continue these conversations and provide an opportunity for all involved to contribute their thoughts on the issues.

The process will include:

· A survey of pastors and church leaders
· Focus groups
· Input from the VBMN
· A working group of pastors, church leaders and BUV staff to assist with the drafting of new guidelines.
· Assistance of an HR consultant to help us with stakeholder consultation and drafting the guidelines.

Over the past few years we have taken significant steps forward in making our churches and their property a safer place for people with the introduction of a Duty of Care policy, Code of Ethics and Redbook programs. The goal is to have guidelines that foster ministry environments where the pastor is able to function efficiently at their best. Our experience shows that working conditions for the pastor that are fair, healthy and supportive helps to create an effective and healthy church.

In introducing a review of stipends and conditions we are hoping to create guidelines that create clarity in the pastor/church (leadership) relationships.