Policy Purpose

This policy aims to:

•  Outline the conditions under which members are entitled to a refund of their membership fees.
•  Specify the amount members are entitled to if they qualify for a refund.

Background

The Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) collects membership fees through various methods, including:

•  Payroll deduction
•  Direct debit
•  BPay
•  Credit card
•  Residuals
•  Cheque
•  EFT

When joining MEAA, members must complete a membership form, specify their preferred payment method, and sign the form, authorising MEAA to process these fees on an ongoing basis.

To resign from MEAA, members must provide written notice to: members@meaa.org. The resignation takes effect on the date MEAA receives the written notice unless a later date is specified.

Refunds

Refunds are issued only if the member has paid membership fees in advance of their resignation date. The estate of a deceased member may also request a refund from the date of the member’s death.

Members are responsible for notifying MEAA of any changes in their employment circumstances that affect their membership. These changes must be communicated in writing to members@meaa.org within 14 days of the change. Changes to membership will take effect from the date MEAA receives the written notification.

Refunds will not be provided if a member fails to inform MEAA of their resignation, which will result in further fees being deducted via direct debit (Bank/Credit Card) or payroll deduction, including resignations received on the scheduled day of direct debits.

Members who pay their membership fees via salary deduction must notify their employer’s payroll department to cease deductions upon resignation from MEAA, as MEAA cannot refund these payments.

If a member fails to inform MEAA about changes in their employment or educational circumstances (e.g., change in hours, change in role, continuation of full-time study) that result in lower membership fees, a refund will not be issued. However, upon request, up to three months of excess overpayment of fees may be credited to the member’s account as a prepayment for future membership fees.

Exception to the Refund Policy

An exception to the refund policy can be made for members experiencing pronounced financial hardship who failed to notify the union of changes in circumstances. To receive a refund on this basis, the member must:

•  Submit a written application to members@meaa.org explaining the failure to notify the union and detailing the current financial hardship, including supporting documentation.
•  Obtain approval from the CE or her/his nominee.

The maximum obtainable refund under such circumstances is the current financial year.