At the AuSAE Demo Day, association professionals from across Australia and New Zealand gathered to explore the latest in Association Management Systems (AMS). Kicking off the event was a presentation by Tammy from Roundbox Consulting, who challenged attendees to think beyond feature lists and focus on what really matters when choosing an AMS or CRM.

Tammy’s core message was clear: “Most AMS platforms can meet your basic needs—but it’s the how, not the what, that defines the right fit for your association.” Her presentation outlined five critical areas of risk and opportunity that can make or break your system investment:

Confidence in the Vendor

Choosing a vendor is more than selecting software—it’s choosing a long term partner.. Tammy encouraged associations to look into vendor stability, local support availability, and long-term pricing transparency. "You’ll be working with this vendor for many years," she noted. “Make sure you feel confident picking up the phone and calling them.”

Futureproofing Your Solution

Associations evolve. So should your AMS. Tammy stressed the importance of selecting a platform that is configurable, integrates easily with other tools and systems, investment in ai and comes with a clear product roadmap. “What you need in the future could be very different to what you need today," she said. “Think about your strategic roadmap looks like and whether or not it aligns with their solution roadmap.” she reminded the association professionals.

Ease of Use

Tammy advised that a technically brilliant system won’t deliver value if it’s too complex to use. Assess the interface, training requirements, and how intuitively staff and members can navigate the platform. “A system that is hard to use simply won’t be used,” she mentioned.

Cybersecurity

In an era of increasing digital threats, Tammy encouraged associations not to gloss over cybersecurity. Her checklist included multifactor authentication, understand data storage locations (including backups) and requirements, recent penetration testing, and vetting of vendor staff. “Cybersecurity risks are often overlooked in the AMS selection process and that can be a costly mistake.”

Your Team’s Readiness

Tammy also placed the spotlight on internal project preparedness. From setting realistic timelines to ensuring your data is cleaned up in advance, she reminded attendees that successful implementations are just as dependent on the association’s readiness as the vendor’s.  “It’s your team’s readiness that will impact the schedule. It’s usually not the vendor causing delays.”

This presentation was a timely reminder that selecting the right AMS isn’t just about features—it’s about fit, flexibility, and future focus. Whether you’re about to start your search or deep into vendor demos, this is essential viewing.

Explore the full range of demos from iMIS, Causeis, Glue Up, Membes, ToucanTech, Klevr Members, and MemberConnex—plus tools and expert resources from AuSAE Demo Day: www.ausae.org.au/ams-demo-day

The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Sidecar, a leading educator on disruptive technology for the association sector. This exciting collaboration introduces AuSAE members to Sidecar’s AI Learning Hub – a dynamic platform designed to equip association professionals with the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to confidently lead in the age of artificial intelligence.

As the role of AI grows across industries, AuSAE remains committed to providing expertly developed, research-backed resources uniquely tailored for associations, empowering our members to adapt, thrive, and lead with impact.

The AI Learning Hub delivers:

• On-Demand AI Lessons – Curated for association professionals and continuously updated to reflect the latest in AI innovation.
• Association AI Professional (AAiP) Certification – A prestigious credential for those seeking to demonstrate advanced AI knowledge and leadership within the association space.
• Weekly Live Office Hours – Direct access to AI experts in real time, enabling personalised guidance and practical insights.
• Comprehensive Use Case Library - Access to short-form “how-to” style videos that walk association professionals through practical applications of different AI tools.

“This partnership is a key step forward in supporting our members as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI,” said Toni Brearley, CEO of AuSAE. “Through Sidecar’s AI Learning Hub, we are empowering association leaders to not just keep up with change – but to lead it.”

“This partnership represents a pivotal moment for AI in the association space,” said Sofi Giglio, Sidecar’s Manager of Sales and Partnerships. “With a goal of educating 1 million association professionals on AI by 2030, we’re thrilled to collaborate with AuSAE to bring this vital knowledge to an international audience.”

As of today, the AI Learning Hub is available to AuSAE members here. Gain access the platform and begin your AI journey now!

Get Started Today

Media Contact:
Sarah Gamble
Communications & Marketing Manager, AuSAE
sarah@ausae.org.au

AI Learning Hub Contact:
Sofi Giglio
Manager of Sales and Partnerships, Sidecar
sofi@sidecar.ai

Associations are entrusted with vast amounts of personal and sensitive information from their members. Ensuring best practice data privacy and cyber security is crucial, not only to protect this information but also to maintain the trust of members.

In recent years, data privacy concerns have grown as Australians increasingly navigate a digital environment fraught with data breaches, misuse of information, and emerging threats like ransomware.

In November 2024, a significant milestone was achieved in Australia’s legislative landscape as the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill successfully passed both Houses of Parliament. Marking the beginning of substantial reforms to the Privacy Act 1988, this new legislation underscores the government’s commitment to modernising privacy laws in a digital-first world. These reforms will strengthen individual privacy rights while placing new responsibilities on organisations.

Directors’ Responsibilities under Section 180

One of the most crucial legal frameworks governing directors’ responsibilities in Australia is Section 180 of the Australian Corporations Act. This provision places a duty on association directors to exercise their powers and perform their duties with care and diligence. This is often referred to as the ‘reasonable person’ standard.

When it comes to data privacy, this standard means that association directors must be proactive in understanding the risks associated with the collection, storage, and processing of personal information. They must also make sure that their organisation has taken the right measures to protect against data breaches. Failing to do so can result in significant legal consequences, including personal liability for directors.

Directors must ensure their association comply with data privacy regulations such as the Australian Privacy Act and industry-specific standards like ISO 27001. 

Best Practice Tips for Data Privacy

To stay ahead of potential data privacy issues, directors and their associations should take a hands-on approach:

• Regular Risk Assessments: Perform regular assessments to identify potential data privacy risks, and implement measures to address them.
• Comprehensive Policies and Procedures: Make sure the organisation has clear, regularly reviewed and updated data privacy policies and procedures.
• Training and Awareness: Provide ongoing training for staff on data protection practices and the importance of compliance with relevant legislation.
• Incident Response Planning: Develop and maintain an incident response plan to address potential data breaches swiftly and effectively.

Above all, make sure your association’s data security compliance is simple, sustainable and integrated into your everyday business operations—it should not be a ‘tick box’ exercise performed to satisfy an annual audit.

de.iterate offers a streamlined path to achieving compliance with the Essential 8 and the Privacy Act. Or, if you want to enhance your data protection, we help make ISO 27001 certification as stress-free as possible.

For more information, visit: https://deiterate.com/data-privacy-cyber-security-for-associations or contact us via hello@deiterate.com.

We often think of the end-user when it comes to cybersecurity risks, but in reality, your Association’s system administrators can cause significantly more damage.

This was the topic of an email exchange I had recently with an AMS vendor who was trying hard to educate his customers about these risks.

No matter how much his company spent on cybersecurity protection on their cloud-based solution, Associations’ system administrators could very easily undermine everything they do and expose sensitive data.

This is because of the Administrator’s broad security rights to the system, or as I like to say…their superpowers.

Yet, rarely does the administrator commit this breach deliberately. Instead, it’s a common issue generally due to lack of knowledge.

Here’s just a few ways that system administrators can expose their organisation’s data to greater cybersecurity risks, and what they should do instead:

1. Sharing system logins and passwords – This is too common, especially when the Association is trying to minimise software license costs.
   
   • Better Practice: If you must share passwords, use a Password Manager tool. Ask your Managed Service Provider to help you set this up if you are

   unsure.
   
   

2. Failing to remove old administrators and users – This allows former employees to access the system and could also lead to a hacker obtaining access if the same user/login information was used for other compromised systems.

   • Better Practice: System access must be removed at an employee’s departure or even when they take extended leave.
   
   

3. Failing to make Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) the default setting – If MFA is available, turn it on as a mandatory setting for all users! Yes, some users will complain because of the inconvenience this may cause, but MFA is still one of the best ways to reduce cybersecurity risks.

   • Better Practice: Make MFA a default for all administrators as a minimum, but preferably for all users. 

4. Failing to tightly control access to systems – Users should only have access to the information they need to do their jobs, and no more. Giving greater access rights (particularly admin rights) to employees may reduce helpdesk requests, but it adds more risk to the organisation too.

   • Better Practice: Ensure user security roles are controlled, tracked and managed properly.

5. Failing to control data downloads - There are rarely good reasons for a user to download large quantities of data from a system. When this occurs, there is no longer an audit trail of what happens to that information, and it can be shared without notice and stored in insecure places.

   • Better Practice: Administrators should limit who can download data and for what purposes. Administrators should also review audit logs regularly to see who has done this.

6. Sending data to others via email or other insecure ways - If data must be shared, particularly with third parties, too many times it’s share in an email as attachments. The organisation has lost control of the data at that point, and it’s also vulnerable sitting inside of mailboxes.

   • Better Practice: Only share sensitive data via secure file transfers or as a minimum, via a password-protected SharePoint folder. Ask your Managed Service Providers for options if you’re not sure.

Final Thoughts
It’s in the best interest of all software vendors to keep their systems as secure as possible. Unfortunately, an Association’s system administrator can easily undo all of this with their “superpowers.”

Knowledge is key to ensuring this doesn’t happen.

Tammy Ven Dange is a former charity CEO, Association President, Not for Profit Board Member and IT Executive. Today, she helps NFPs with strategic IT decisions, especially around IT investments and cybersecurity risks.

Let her know if you need some help!

The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is pleased to announce a new industry partnership with Survey Matters, a leading research and strategic insights agency specialising in associations and member-based organisations.

This collaboration, which commenced in November, is designed to enhance the sector’s awareness and use of high-quality datasets and research. By strengthening the evidence base for advocacy, policy, membership, promotion, and revenue activities, this partnership will help associations make more informed and impactful decisions.

Through this partnership, Survey Matters will draw on its decades of expertise to share insights and knowledge that support association professionals in understanding their members, measuring impact, and driving engagement.

Toni Brearley, Chief Executive Officer of AuSAE, said, “We love working with partners like Survey Matters that share our values of commitment and support to the association sector.”

“The role of data and research in shaping the future of associations cannot be underestimated, and we are excited to work with Survey Matters to help our members leverage high-quality insights to drive their strategic priorities.”

Brenda Mainland, Co-Founder & Managing Director at Survey Matters, said, “Associations thrive when they truly understand their members, and meaningful data is the key to unlocking that insight. At Survey Matters, we don’t just collect numbers—we uncover stories, trends, and opportunities that drive real impact. Partnering with AuSAE allows us to support even more associations in making informed, strategic decisions that strengthen their communities and shape the future of the sector."

The partnership also reinforces Survey Matters’ deep commitment to the association sector, further supporting AuSAE’s mission to empower and grow the capacity of associations through education, connections, and meaningful partnerships.

To find out more about Survey Matters and their research expertise, visit surveymatters.com.au

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.