Sector and AuSAE News

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  • 14 Feb 2025 12:00 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is proud to welcome four new Certified Association Executives (CAEs) to the growing cohort of credentialed professionals in Australia and New Zealand.

    Congratulations to Jennifer Bowden, CAE, Christopher Marrs, CAE, Leigh Clarke, CAE, and Marie Walters, CAE, who have demonstrated their expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence in association management by earning this distinguished global credential.

    New CAEs – Australia:

    • Jennifer Bowden, CAE – CEO, Mathematical Association of Victoria (Brunswick, VIC)
    • Christopher Marrs, CAE – Manager, Education & Membership, Migration Institute of Australia (East Gosford, NSW)
    • Leigh Clarke, CAE – Chief Executive Officer, Victorian Healthcare Association (Melbourne, VIC)
    • Marie Walters, CAE – Executive Officer (Melbourne, VIC)

    Toni Brearley, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of AuSAE, congratulated the new CAEs, saying:
    "I want to congratulate all the AuSAE members who recently achieved their Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation—an incredible milestone that reflects your dedication and expertise. The CAE credential is a mark of leadership in our sector, and we are thrilled to see more association professionals in Australia and New Zealand committing to this standard of excellence."

    The Certified Association Executive (CAE) program is the highest professional certification in the association sector, recognising individuals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and leadership required to drive success in the industry. Administered by the CAE Commission and supported by AuSAE, the program is globally recognised and designed to elevate the standards of association management.

    To learn more about the CAE credential, visit AuSAE’s website.

  • 15 Jan 2025 11:08 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    Unlocking Growth, Engagement, and Sustainability for Your Members

    The 10th Annual Membership Performance Benchmark Report is more than just numbers—it’s a testament to the resilience and innovation of association professionals. The findings reveal an industry that is thriving, adapting, and pushing forward despite challenges. Membership is growing, engagement is rising, and confidence in the future has never been stronger.

    But the work isn’t done. Your members need you now more than ever. Their expectations are shifting, and the way you connect, engage, and retain them will define your success in 2025 and beyond. With nearly 70% of associations investing in technology and member experience taking center stage, the message is clear: those who embrace digital transformation and strategic engagement will lead the way.

    The 10th Annual Membership Performance Benchmark Report by iMIS provides valuable data and insights into membership engagement, acquisition, retention, and technology trends. With over 200 association leaders participating in the survey, the report sheds light on key priorities, challenges, and strategies shaping the association landscape in 2025.

    Key Takeaways from the Report

    1. Membership Growth & Retention Are on the Rise

    • 48% of associations reported an increase in new member acquisitions.
    • 32% saw a boost in retention rates, with only 20% experiencing a decline.
    • Events and member referrals remain the top strategies for recruiting new members.

    2. Engagement Strategies Are Paying Off

    • 38% of associations reported higher member engagement levels.
    • Organisations with a structured engagement plan saw notable increases in event attendance and renewal rates.
    • Automated renewals are proving effective in improving retention rates and reducing administrative burdens.

    3. Technology Investment Is a Priority

    • 68% of organisations are investing in new membership management software to streamline operations and enhance member experiences.
    • 70% have transitioned to cloud-based systems, ensuring seamless data management and accessibility.
    • Digital transformation, including AI and automation, is gaining traction to personalise member interactions.

    4. Generational Differences Impact Priorities

    • Gen X (48%) dominates the leadership demographic, focusing on engagement and retention.
    • Millennials (28%) prioritize enhancing the member journey and leveraging technology.
    • Gen Z (5%) is the most optimistic generation about the future of associations.

    5. Financial & Operational Challenges Persist

    • Budget constraints remain a top concern, particularly for Gen X leaders.
    • Data silos and extensive system customizations hinder operational efficiency.
    • Associations are seeking better reporting tools to make data-driven decisions.

    What This Means for Association Professionals

    This year’s benchmark report confirms that associations are maintaining strong momentum post-2024. The emphasis on engagement, technology, and data-driven decision-making underscores the need for continued adaptation to evolving member expectations. Investing in member experience, optimising recruitment strategies, and embracing digital transformation will be key to sustained growth and success.

    What’s Next?

    If you’re looking to enhance your association’s membership performance, consider implementing structured engagement plans, leveraging automation for renewals, and evaluating your tech stack for efficiency improvements.

    Want to compare your organisation’s performance to industry benchmarks? Download the 2025 Membership Performance Benchmark Report by iMIS and explore actionable strategies to elevate your membership success.

  • 18 Nov 2024 7:00 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    New research has revealed for the first time exactly what it’s like inside the pressure cooker that is advocating for members, lobbying decision-makers and staying relevant as the leader of an industry association.

    Key takeaway? It’s a tough gig with brutal demands, but it attracts uniquely devoted people, many who consider it a calling and never want to leave.

    The inaugural Association CEO Index 2024 has harnessed for the first time the thoughts, feelings and concerns of association leaders across Australia and New Zealand; lifting the lid on their challenges, satisfaction levels, hopes and fears.

    The Index was commissioned by the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) in partnership with communications agency Bespoken.

    “The Association CEO Index is a comprehensive, moment-in-time snapshot of what’s keeping our leaders up at night and what’s exciting them about the future,” Bespoken Managing Director Sarah Morgan said.

    “Our first ever Index has uncovered such candid and revealing insights that really shine a light on the current state of the sector’s leadership.

    “This rich intel is valuable. It not only sparks immediate reflection, conversation and connection, it also gives the sector some clear targets to galvanise its strategy around.”

    AuSAE CEO Toni Brearley labelled the Index findings equal parts “reality check” and “call to action”.

    “The CEO Index is a gift,” Ms Brearley said. “This research is about understanding the people behind the titles – the leaders who dedicate themselves to advancing industries, professions and communities.

    “This is a complex and demanding role, very different to a corporate CEO, and those demands are constantly shifting. It’s essential that association CEOs have a way to reflect and assess their capacity to continue making an impact.

    “The insights contained in this Index allow us to respond to the evolving needs of our members with greater precision. Now we can shape future professional development initiatives and advocacy efforts that truly reflect the lived experiences of the leaders we serve. When we understand what drives these executives – and what holds them back – we can better support them in achieving their goals.

    “The CEO Index gives us a clear roadmap to build a sustainable, thriving association sector for the future.”

    Association CEO Index 2024 – Summary of key findings:

    1. Association CEOs are optimistic for the next 12 months
      91% of leaders are feeling positive about their organisation’s prospects.
    2. Very high career satisfaction
      Nearly 89% of Australian and New Zealand association CEOs report satisfaction with their role, with 48% saying they are extremely satisfied.
    3. Resource and financial constraints hinder talent attraction
      Only 31% of CEOs believe that managing an association is seen as an attractive career choice by emerging leaders.
    4. Economic pressures are the top concern for 2024
      Rising costs and the impact on membership retention are the most significant challenges, with 62% of CEOs rating these issues as concerning. The worry is especially acute among industry associations.
    5. Biggest opportunities in membership growth and digital transformation
      Particularly through expanding membership growth into new regions and leveraging technological advancements like AI-driven tools and new CRM systems.
    6. Member engagement and retention are major priorities
      Top concerns for 31% of association CEOs. Nearly half (49%) are focusing on enhancing value through segmentation, life cycle research and personalisation.
    7. Significant time spent on administrative duties
      Administrative, finance, and HR responsibilities occupy over a quarter (26%) of an association CEO's time. This is particularly pronounced in professional associations, where 30.5% of CEO time is dedicated to these functions.
    8. Job strain and wellbeing concerns are widespread
      84% of CEOs indicate they frequently or occasionally lack the time needed to perform their roles effectively. Consequently, 70% of CEOs across all segments report feeling run down and lacking energy.

    Challenges: Economic pressures, including the rising costs of business and the impact of the cost of living on membership, are the most significant challenges, with 62% of CEOs rating these issues as concerning or very concerning. This is particularly acute among hybrid  associations (mix of professional and industry), where 72% of CEOs identify the current economic environment as a key issue, compared to 53% in industry associations.

    Opportunities: Surveyed CEOs identified membership growth, innovation, digital transformation and enhancing the education and training offer as key opportunities for the coming year.

    ENDS

    About the Association CEO Index:

    The Association CEO Index aims to highlight the challenges, opportunities, threats and trends being experienced and noticed by the leaders of industry associations in Australia and New Zealand. The Index monitors, measures and gauges sentiment from the sector’s leaders, while also informing and guiding the sector’s future professional development, next generation appeal, advocacy and best practices.

    Informed by direct survey feedback from leaders, global and open data sources and case studies from the sector, the very first Index was launched in 2024 with the intention of ongoing annual release and benchmarking.

    About Bespoken:

    Bespoken is a Brisbane-based agency with a client base spanning Australia and beyond. The team of experienced journalists and marketing specialists offer an integrated approach across communications, engagement and marketing to help clients achieve bankable solutions and strategies. Their expertise spans a range of sectors including construction, hospitality, agriculture, renewables, HR, circular economy and not-for-profits.

    About AuSAE:

    The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is the leading association for current and future association professionals in Australia and New Zealand. It is the only not-for-profit, member-based organisation exclusively supporting association professionals in these two countries. Committed to strengthening the sector, AuSAE provides its members with valuable resources, professional development opportunities, and a vibrant community of like-minded professionals.


  • 24 Oct 2024 10:03 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    We’re thrilled to share that the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE), in partnership with Adelaide Convention Centre, has selected the recipients of the 2024 Next Gen Association Leaders program! This initiative is all about empowering future leaders in the association sector, fostering growth, and building a strong, supportive network of professionals who are ready to elevate their careers.

    The 2024 Next Gen Association Leaders program brings together a diverse group of professionals working within associations. They’ll be engaging with current and relevant themes that will shape the future of our sector at the 2024 AuSAE Conference & Exhibition (ACE) in Adelaide, 17 – 19 November.

    We’re excited to introduce you to the five amazing individuals who’ve earned a scholarship in the 2024 Next Gen Association Leaders program:

    • Lou Beilken - Head of Change Management and Strategic Projects, Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM)
    • Jon Cullum - Executive Manager, Membership, Events & Publication – The Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP)
    • Amanda Frazer - Events Manager, Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS)
    • Faizal Mohammed - Manager, Member Engagement, Local Government NSW
    • Lisa Muston – Events Manager, Australasian Sonographers Association

    AuSAE together with Adelaide Convention Centre, would like to acknowledge all the nominees for their submissions and dedication to the sector and congratulate the 2024 Next Gen Association Leaders.

    AuSAE CEO, Toni Brearley, shared, "The calibre of applicants this year was truly exceptional, and we are beyond excited to collaborate with such a talented group of next gen leaders. Their future is incredibly bright, and we can’t wait to see how they’ll contribute to the success of organisations they work with and the association sector as a whole."

    Toni also highlighted the diversity and broad representation within this year’s cohort, which promises innovative and fresh perspectives for the future of our sector.

    Sarah Goldfinch, General Manager, Adelaide Convention Centre, added, “We were delighted to once again partner with AuSAE on this terrific initiative and equally excited by the calibre of this year’s applicants."

    “Association conferences and exhibitions provide an important platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, networking and to elevate industries. We look forward to welcoming the 2024 Next Gen Association Leaders to the Adelaide Convention Centre for ACE 2024 next month.”

    By supporting today’s next generation of association leaders, we’re investing in a vibrant and successful future for the association sector. 

  • 05 Sep 2024 6:00 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is excited to announce the opening of applications for the 2024 Next Gen Association Leaders Scholarships, offering aspiring association leaders a unique opportunity to advance their careers and shape the future of the sector.

    In partnership with Adelaide Convention Centre, AuSAE is committed to supporting the growth of the next generation of association leaders. The Scholarship program is designed to support outstanding individuals who have identified a career path in Association Leadership. It offers specialist education opportunities for association professionals to enhance their leadership abilities, deepen their industry knowledge, and engage in collaborative learning experiences with peers from varied backgrounds and sectors.

    Toni Brearley, CEO of AuSAE, shares, "We are proud to champion the future of association leadership and foster educational and professional growth among up-and-coming association executives, building a strong future for the association sector.”

    Sarah Goldfinch, General Manager - Adelaide Convention Centre, adds “Adelaide Convention Centre is equally proud to continue our partnership with AuSAE on this important initiative supporting aspiring association leaders.

    “The Association sector is a major contributor to the global business events industry. By supporting the next generation of association leaders, we are helping inspire a bright future for not only the association sector, but also the business events industry at large. We wish all applicants the very best of luck! ”

    The scholarships are open to current employees of associations a with over three (3) years of association management experience, who reside and work in Australia, and have shown potential as future leaders in the sector. For more details on eligibility, please refer to the application process.

    Applications for the 2024 Next Gen Association Leaders Scholarships are now open and will close at 5:00 pm (AEST) on Sunday, 22 September 2024.

    To apply and learn more about the Next Gen Association Leaders Scholarships, visit www.ausae.org.au/nextgen-leaders-scholarship or contact us at info@ausae.org.au.

    About AuSAE:

    The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is a leading organisation dedicated to empowering professionals in the association sector. Its mission is to foster excellence and innovation in association management by providing education, networking opportunities, and resources to association executives and industry leaders across Australia and New Zealand. AuSAE plays a pivotal role in the association sector by serving as a hub for knowledge sharing, best practices, and collaboration among professionals working in non-profit organisations and associations.

    About Adelaide Convention Centre:

    Adelaide Convention Centre is South Australia’s home of business events and enjoys a reputation as one of the world’s most modern, versatile and technologically advanced meetings and events venues. With a strong dedication to fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration, the Centre has consistently hosted events, conferences and initiatives aimed at empowering association professionals. Through strategic partnerships and a focus on delivering high-quality educational content, Adelaide Convention Centre has become a hub for innovation and skill enhancement in the association industry. The Centre’s unwavering commitment to supporting professional development and education reflects its belief in the critical role that well-trained and informed professionals play in shaping the future of associations and their impact on various sectors and communities.

  • 26 Aug 2024 11:59 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    Tourism New Zealand has hosted international tastemakers at ‘the restaurant with the most stars’ to put New Zealand’s night skies and world class cuisine on the map.

    After years of having its world-class restaurants snubbed by the Michelin Guide on account of its remote geography, New Zealand delivered a restaurant it claims has “more stars” than any other and invited 50 international tastemakers to judge the local cuisine for themselves.

    In a breathtaking culinary showcase, leading New Zealand chef Ben Bayly produced a one-of-a-kind restaurant experience under the star-embellished skies of Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill) at the foothills of the Southern Alps in New Zealand’s South Island.

    “Why be satisfied with a Michelin Star, when you can cook under 2.5 billion of them?” asks Bayly.

    Media, tastemakers and social media advocates from key events and incentive markets, including Australian food critic Sofia Levin, Ashley Day of influential US publication Food & Wine, and Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia, were in attendance to sample the destination's spectacular dark skies and bespoke, six-course degustation menu. Meticulously constructed using the finest winter produce and native ingredients, the bill of fare celebrated the breadth of ingredients available throughout New Zealand, from truffle to pāua (abalone), Wagyu beef to crayfish.

    René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand, says: “The sky really is the limit for an imaginative event organiser in New Zealand all year round. This was a spectacular example of combining two of New Zealand’s world class offerings in a bespoke event.

    “New Zealand’s night skies offer incredible stargazing experiences, and they’re even more impressive during the longer nights of autumn, winter, and spring, when the majority of business events come to the country. Amazing food is an essential part of any good event, and this was a fantastic taste of what’s on offer in New Zealand.”

    The definition of a three-star restaurant in the Michelin Guide means “exceptional cuisine, worthy of a special journey,” explains chef Ben Bayly. “We think that New Zealand cuisine is in a category of its own – we call it superior cuisine, worth a journey to the edge of the earth.”

    Deeply rooted in kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and manaakitanga (hospitality), Aotearoa New Zealand’s food identity honours both people and place, resulting in a distinct agricultural richness and vibrant, culinary culture. 

    For more information about what’s on offer in Aotearoa New Zealand go to www.newzealand.com/stargrazing

    //ENDS//

    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    NOTES:

    The restaurant’s name, Pou-o-Kai was gifted to the restaurant by Ngāi Tuāhuriri, local tangata whenua (people of the land) in an ode to the eagle that used to soar the pristine skies of the Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill, South Island) region.

    The bespoke dishes served at Pou-o-Kai will be rotated across Ben Bayly’s New Zealand restaurants (Ahi, Aosta, Origine, Little Aosta, The Bathhouse) in Auckland, Queenstown and Arrowtown through to August 2025.

    Tourism New Zealand’s dedicated Business Events team provides strategic funding and support to attract conferences and incentives to New Zealand.

    For more information on holding a business event in New Zealand, visit businessevents.newzealand.com

  • 23 Aug 2024 10:28 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    In today’s digital world, associations must continuously find ways to engage their members and provide value beyond traditional events. The 2024 Association Community Benchmark Report from Higher Logic, based on insights from nearly 1500 association members, reveals their top priorities, preferred communication methods, and key factors influencing retention. If your association is looking to strengthen member engagement, this report provides a roadmap for success.

    Online communities have become a year-round engagement tool, allowing associations to facilitate networking, learning, and collaboration beyond in-person events. The data in the report highlights key trends in community engagement and offers benchmarks to help associations measure their own community success.

    Five Key Takeaways from the Report

    1. Engagement Drives Retention
      • The top reasons members join an association are networking and professional development. However, lack of engagement is a leading cause of membership churn. Associations that position their online community as a central hub for discussions, mentoring, and volunteering see significant increases in participation and retention.
    2. Personalised Community Experiences Boost Participation
      • Associations that tailor their community spaces—such as chapters, groups, or event-specific forums—report 116% more logins, 70% more discussion activity, and 65% more unique contributors. Providing personalised experiences encourages deeper engagement.
    3. Job Boards and Mentoring Increase Member Involvement
      • Communities that integrate job boards see 88% more logins and 87% more unique contributors. Similarly, mentoring and volunteer programs lead to 124% more logins and 53% more contributors. Members value career development opportunities, making these features essential for community success.
    4. Automation and Gamification Enhance Engagement
      • Associations leveraging automation to personalize member outreach see 49% higher logins and 250% more discussion activity. Meanwhile, those using gamification tools experience 95% more logins and 42% more discussion activity. Simple elements like badges, challenges, and automated reminders keep members coming back.
    5. Email Remains a Vital Engagement Channel
      • The average open rate for community digest emails is 43-59%, surpassing standard association email benchmarks. Many members engage primarily via email digests rather than logging into the community platform itself. Ensuring that community content is delivered effectively through email enhances overall participation.

    What This Means for Your Association?

    These findings emphasise that a thriving online community is not just an optional add-on—it is a critical driver of membership engagement, retention, and value. Investing in the right technology, integrating career development resources, and leveraging automation and gamification can significantly enhance community success.

    Is your association making the most of its online community? Use the benchmarks in this report to assess your current engagement levels and identify opportunities for growth. Whether you’re looking to launch a community, improve engagement, or integrate additional features like job boards or mentoring, this report provides the insights you need to move forward.

    For a deeper dive into the insights and strategies download the full 2024 Association Community Benchmark Report today!

  • 12 Aug 2024 12:02 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    Ōtautahi Christchurch recently hosted one of the world’s biggest communication conferences, putting Indigenous knowledge at the centre of communication research. 

    The prestigious international conference brought 1,300 international delegates from 61 different countries together, with some of them being top in the field.

    Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) hosted the conference in collaboration with local iwi, Ngāi Tūāhuriri, and senior academics from seven New Zealand universities.

    UC Professor Donald Matheson, Chair of the Local Organising Committee, says IAMCR 2024 has put Ōtautahi Christchurch and Aotearoa New Zealand on the map and will lead to further research projects and other valuable connections.

    Diverse collaboration

    A diverse range of collaborators worked together from identification, bidding, securing the win, to planning and implementation.

    “It takes the sum of all doing their parts well to get the results like IAMCR,” Professor Matheson says.

    “The theme of the conference lends itself perfectly to this, ‘Whiria te tāngata - Weaving people together’, the strength that comes through common purpose.”

    Aotearoa New Zealand's unique bicultural history and position make it an ideal location for this conference. It is also a land of immigrants spanning from the first waka 1000 years ago to recent Pacific and Asian immigration. This history underpins strong connections across the Pacific and a shared legacy of addressing colonial impacts on health, environment and security.

    In addition to that, UC’s position of being the only tertiary institution in Aotearoa to have a formal Te Tiriti partnership with local iwi Ngāi Tūāhuriri also contributed to the successful bid.

    Conference Innovators managed the project locally using multiple venues and hotels and the conference will deliver legacy impacts for the city – environmental, diversity and inclusivity.

    Professor Matheson says the economic and legacy impacts of the event can’t be underestimated. “Christchurch will feel the positive effects of hosting these international guests not only during the event, but for years after.”

    Central Christchurch venues hosting sessions as part of the conference included Te Pae

    Christchurch Convention Centre, Crowne Plaza Christchurch, Distinction Christchurch Hotel, Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square, and Tūranga Christchurch Library, with social events hacross central city hospitality spaces such as Riverside Markets.

    Whiria te tāngata | Weaving people together

    Media and communication research explores the influence and impact of the media and new information technology. It shows how communication and media work in a broader social context.

    The theme of IAMCR 2024 in is Whiria te tangata | Weave the people together: Communicative projects of decolonising, engaging, and listening. - the strength that comes through common purpose. It invites reflection on the terms and models appropriate to describe contemporary communication, including the political and moral goals embedded in them.

    Partnership in knowledge-making

    Keynote speakers included Linda Tuhiwai Smith (Distinguished Professor at Whare Wānanga o Awanuiarangi), who is a global authority on indigenous methods in the social sciences, and Selina Tusitala Marsh (Auckland University), one of New Zealand’s leading Pacific scholars was a key speaker. She is well-known as a literary star, as well as a critic and researcher.

    Connecting young Pacific researchers with school students was a focus of the conference, supported by UNESCO’s New Zealand National Commission.

    The event was in partnership with Ngāi Tūāhuriri, the University of Canterbury’s  Treaty partner who hold manawhenua (land management rights) in the city.

    “A major scholarly topic in our field is decolonising communication and Ōtautahi Christchurch is a perfect place to do that. It makes our academic commitment to partnership in knowledge-making real,” Professor Matheson says.

    “Te Pae, with its ara (archway) and narrative of connecting with place, adds to that, as will all the other activities we’ll invite participants to do, including planting trees with manawhenua, at Tūhaitara Coastal Park, on the day before the conference and a walk through the city centre guided by a kaumatua.”

    Early-career focused conference

    IAMCR 2024 was a conference of emerging scholars, with about 40 percent of participants still doing their research degrees. This added energy and ensured there were a lot of new ideas discussed.

    IAMCR offered awards and grants for participating members including 25 travel grants, awards for excellent papers dealing with climate change communication, urban communication, or rural communication services.

    Communication and policy professionals were invited to come along for a day or two of the conference to connect with research.

    “We are all working through many of the same issues, including the pace of technological change, questions of trust in communicators, the way communication reinforces inequality between rich and poor, the role that communication can play in global challenges such as climate justice, public health and safeguarding the fragile structures of democracy,” Professor Matheson says.

    Reducing environmental impact

    The conference had a strong focus on reducing its environmental impact and also prioritised accessibility for all.

    Planned activities included planting trees in a regenerating wetland, an urban walk telling of the partnership between the tribe and the city in rebuilding the city centre, media art exhibitions and more.

    “Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre is in the centre of town, so most participants were able to walk to and from their accommodation. Te Pae also has a surprisingly small environmental footprint itself. We had volunteer 'eco-angels’ walking the floor, advising people on little steps they can take and handing out tickets to the heritage (electric) tram as spot awards,” Professor Matheson says.

    For more information on bringing your conference to New Zealand, visit businessevents.newzealand.com

  • 05 Aug 2024 11:53 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    Why Advocacy Matters for Associations

    As an association professional, you know that your mission extends beyond membership management—it’s about making a real impact for your industry, your members, and the communities you serve. Advocacy and public policy efforts aren’t just optional add-ons; they’re essential to protecting, shaping, and advancing your profession.

    Whether it’s fighting for regulatory changes, securing funding, or raising awareness, your association has the unique power to be the voice of your members in government, media, and society. And in today’s landscape, where policies shift rapidly, that voice is more important than ever.

    Key Strategies for Effective Advocacy

    • Engage Your Members as Advocates
    Your members are your most passionate supporters. Give them the tools, knowledge, and confidence to speak up and take action. Whether it’s through letter-writing campaigns, social media advocacy, or in-person lobbying efforts, an engaged membership is your most powerful asset.
    • Leverage Data to Strengthen Your Case
    Legislators respond to compelling data. Use membership surveys, industry reports, and real-world stories to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities your association represents. Numbers matter, but stories make them stick.
    • Build Relationships with Policymakers
    Advocacy isn’t just about showing up when there’s a crisis—it’s about building long-term relationships with key decision-makers. Stay connected, provide valuable insights, and become a trusted resource for policymakers who influence your industry.
    • Use Digital Platforms to Amplify Your Message
    From social media campaigns to online petitions and virtual advocacy days, technology has made it easier than ever to mobilize support. Meet your members where they are and make it simple for them to participate in advocacy efforts.
    • Showcase Your Impact
    Celebrate your wins—big and small. Share success stories with your members to show that their advocacy makes a difference. Momentum builds when people see real change happening.

    Taking Action: Your Association’s Next Steps

    Advocacy is not just about influencing policy; it’s about creating lasting change that benefits your members and strengthens your industry. Now is the time to assess your strategy and ensure that your association is proactively shaping the conversation.

    Need inspiration? Read Higher Logic’s guide on advocacy and public policy for more actionable insights: Read the Guide

    Your members are counting on you—make your voice heard!

  • 22 Jul 2024 12:32 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    Causeis is pleased to announce that we have become an Alliance Partner of the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE). This partnership across Australia and New Zealand highlights our commitment to supporting the association sector. AuSAE is the official association for association professions, it really is the home for associations.

    As an Alliance Partner of AuSAE, we collaboratively aim to support the association industry by contributing expertise, education, and innovative solutions that drive the advancement of digital transformation for associations.

    This is the fourth year Causeis has partnered with AuSAE, which reflects our longstanding commitment to the industry, partners and our association clients.

    “We are excited to elevate and strengthen our partnership with AuSAE as an Alliance Partner. We look forward to our ongoing partnership and support while fostering collaboration across Australia and New Zealand by positively impacting the association sector.”

    Michelle Lelempsis, Causeis, Managing Director.

    We encourage all association professionals to join AuSAE to gain access to wealth of thought-leadership events. You’ll continue to see Causeis at AuSAE’s signature events including ACE Adelaide Conference, LINC in Christchurch New Zealand, MX and so many.

    About Causeis

    Causeis is the most trusted and awarded digital consulting partner for associations in Asia Pacific. The Causeis Launchpad powered by iMIS is Our work improves the lives of over 300,000 members with 65+ industry associations.

    Causeis is the market leader in providing digital consulting across member experience, web & UX design, association strategies and data-driven solutions. Combined with our technology partners including the global-leading software iMIS and Higher Logic we help associations grow, transform and thrive. We are also the developers of the Digital Academy for Associations. Proudly providing over 200 associations with training across strategy and digital transformation. For further information, please visit www.causeis.com.au 

    About AuSAE

    Australia and New Zealand's only not-for-profit organisation assisting Association professionals. From the beds we sleep in, to the clothes we wear, the cars we drive to the roads and bridges we travel on, the design and construction of the offices and homes we work and live in, to the professional services we access and the community organisations we benefit from, there is an association working hard to improve products, services, professionalism, public policy and ultimately society. We are your association, Join us Now!

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The Australasian Society of Association Executives

Contact us:

Email: info@ausae.org.au
Phone: 1300 764 576 (within Australia)
Phone: +61 7 3268 7955 (outside Australia)
Address: Unit 6, 26 Navigator Place, Hendra QLD 4011, Australia

                    
        


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