Open Access Webinar: Associations in 2026: Risks, Relevance and Readiness Synopsis

In 2026, associations face a dual challenge: remaining indispensable to members while navigating an increasingly complex workplace landscape themselves. Industrial relations reform, psychosocial risk obligations, wage pressures and governance expectations are reshaping the environment across Australia and New Zealand.

In this session, Citation Group shares frontline insights drawn specifically from our Advisory work with associations across Australia, alongside HR Advice Line data and sector-wide trends. We’ll unpack the key compliance, workforce and risk issues association leaders are raising with us, what’s driving concern within their member bases, and where gaps commonly emerge.

Attendees will gain association-specific intelligence on what keeps both boards and members up at night — and leave equipped with practical, data-informed strategies to strengthen internal capability, enhance member value, and position their association as a proactive, trusted partner in 2026 and beyond.

What You’ll Gain

• Association-specific insight drawn from Advisory interactions with Australian associations
• Clarity on 2026 IR, compliance and psychosocial obligations affecting associations and their members
• Visibility into the most common HR risks and governance challenges emerging in the sector
• Practical strategies to strengthen internal capability and member-facing support
• Data-informed talking points to enhance advocacy, communications and perceived value

Meet Our Presenter

Wes O’Donnell
Head of Enterprise Growth, Citation Group

With a background spanning legal practice and management consultancy, Wes has worked alongside the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and the dental profession for more than eight years. He has led the design and delivery of tailored HR, legal, and payroll compliance solutions—most notably ADA HR Advisory and ADA Pay—helping practices strengthen governance, streamline operations, and reduce compliance risk. Drawing on deep experience advising complex organisations and professional associations, Wes regularly presents to dental practitioners and industry leaders nationwide on employment law, wage compliance, and the evolving Fair Work landscape.

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