On this episode of 20Twenty, Executive Director of the CMA Standards Council, Steve Kerr, joined us to talk about trust, transparency and the importance of good governance in Christian organisations. From churches and schools to charities and media ministries, integrity in leadership is more vital than ever in a world crying out for authenticity.
“People won’t give their resources to an organisation unless they trust them,” Steve said. “And trust grows when we have clear standards, good governance and honest accountability.”
The CMA Standards Council exists to promote those values by offering a rigorous accreditation process for Christian ministries in Australia. And we’re pleased to share that Vision Christian Media is now officially an accredited member.
“Passing our test and meeting our standards means people can have confidence in organisations like Vision,” Steve said. “It shows that Vision is committed to doing the very best for God, and that matters not just to donors and volunteers, but to the watching world.”
A Higher Standard
Accreditation with the CMA Standards Council isn’t just about going through the motions. It requires ministries to demonstrate full compliance across key areas including governance, transparency, financial stewardship and ethical leadership. Ministries are assessed annually to ensure standards are not only met, but maintained.
“We based our standards on Scripture, Australian legislation, best practice governance and most importantly, biblical principles,” Steve said. “God comes first. That’s the foundation of every standard we set.”
This level of accreditation is not just about protecting reputations. It’s about rebuilding trust, both inside and outside the Church. “We’re showing the world that Christian organisations are willing to go the extra mile,” Steve said. “We don’t just meet the minimum legal standards. We aim higher, because we serve a higher authority.”
A Commitment To Integrity
With Vision’s reach and growth across Australia, joining the CMA Standards Council reflects a decision to remain transparent, trustworthy and gospel-centred at every level of leadership. The process includes everything from written policies to leadership succession planning. It helps ensure Vision’s mission continues with integrity for years to come.
The Christian sector in Australia is massive. It includes hospitals, schools, churches and charities. But with this comes responsibility. When Christian leaders fall short, the ripple effects damage more than reputations. They affect the public’s trust in God Himself.
“God gets judged by how we behave,” Steve said. “That’s why it matters so much that Christian organisations act with honour. It’s not just about protecting ministries. It’s about protecting God’s name.”
Thinking About Accreditation?
If you’re part of a Christian organisation and would like to know more about accreditation with the CMA Standards Council, you can visit cmasc.net.au to learn more. The process includes a personal consultation and scaled fees depending on the size of your organisation.
“If you’re doing things well, accreditation helps you prove it,” Steve said. “If you’ve got room to grow, we help you get there. Either way, it’s a win.”
Listen to Steve’s full interview on 20Twenty below:
