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  • 20 Oct 2025 12:20 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    Most associations struggle to stretch limited resources while trying to make a real difference. Strategic collaborations offer a practical way to boost association effectiveness without overloading your team. In this article, we share how forming the right partnerships can open doors to fresh ideas, stronger networks, and professional development that truly moves the needle. 

    The Role of Strategic Collaborations in Associations


    Strategic collaborations can transform how associations operate, making them more effective and adaptable. By working together with like-minded organisations, you can share resources, knowledge, and networks. This approach not only strengthens your association but also enhances its ability to achieve its goals. For more insights, check this link.

    Benefits of Effective Partnerships

    The right partnerships can bring numerous advantages. First, they provide access to new ideas and expertise. Partnering with organisations that have different strengths allows you to learn and grow. For example, a small association might partner with a larger one to gain insights into effective management practices.

    Another benefit is the pooling of resources. When associations collaborate, they can share costs and resources. This can lead to substantial savings and increased efficiency. 50% of organisations report improved resource management through partnerships. Moreover, collaborations can increase your association's visibility and influence. Working with reputable partners boosts credibility and attracts more members and stakeholders.

    Real-World Success Stories

    Let's look at some success stories. One association partnered with a tech start-up to develop a new member management system. This collaboration resulted in a user-friendly platform, improving member engagement by 30%. Another example is a partnership between a health-focused association and local clinics. Together, they launched a health awareness campaign, reaching thousands of residents.

    These stories highlight the power of strategic partnerships in driving real change. By sharing resources and expertise, associations can achieve much more than they could alone. For more real-world examples, explore this article.

    Overcoming Common Challenges

    While partnerships offer many benefits, they also come with challenges. One common issue is misaligned goals. It's essential to have clear communication from the start. Define your goals and ensure they align with your partner's objectives. Regular check-ins and updates can help maintain alignment.

    Another challenge is resource allocation. Deciding how to share resources can be tricky. It's crucial to establish a fair system that works for both parties. Lastly, there might be cultural differences. Understanding and respecting each other's organisational culture is vital for a successful partnership. By addressing these challenges head-on, associations can ensure their partnerships are fruitful.

    Boosting Professional Growth Through Collaborations


    Collaborations don't just benefit the association as a whole; they also offer invaluable opportunities for individual growth. Through strategic partnerships, leaders can enhance their skills and expand their professional networks.

    Networking Opportunities for Leaders

    Collaboration opens doors to new networking opportunities for leaders. By working alongside different organisations, you're exposed to a wider array of professionals. This exposure is invaluable for career growth. Imagine attending joint events or seminars where you can connect with industry experts and peers.

    Networking through collaborations helps you stay informed about industry trends. You gain insights that you might not encounter within your own organisation. These interactions can lead to mentorship opportunities, providing guidance and support from experienced professionals.

    Building Stronger Professional Networks

    Strong professional networks are essential for career advancement. When you collaborate, you naturally expand your network. These connections can offer support, advice, and new opportunities. Collaborations create a sense of community, fostering a supportive environment. You can exchange ideas and gain different perspectives, enriching your professional experience.

    Consider a scenario where a leader partners with another association on a project. This relationship can lead to introductions to influential figures in their field. These valuable connections can open doors to new opportunities, such as speaking engagements or leadership roles.

    Access to Professional Development Resources

    Collaborations provide access to a wealth of resources. By partnering with organisations that have different expertise, you can tap into training programs, workshops, and webinars. These resources enhance your skills and knowledge.

    For example, an association might partner with a university to offer specialised courses to its members. This collaboration benefits both parties, as the university gains access to industry professionals, and the association members receive top-notch education.

    Through collaborations, you can also access online resources, such as webinars and e-books. These resources ensure you're always up-to-date with the latest trends and practices in your field. To discover more about strategic collaborations and professional growth, check out this resource.

    Steps to Forge Impactful Collaborations

    Forging successful collaborations requires careful planning and execution. Here are some steps to guide you through the process of building impactful partnerships.

    • 1.  Identifying Potential Partners

    Start by identifying potential partners who share your values and goals. Look for organisations with complementary strengths. This synergy can lead to successful collaborations. Consider your long-term goals and how a partnership can help you achieve them.

    Research potential partners by attending industry events or joining relevant networks. Use online platforms to find organisations with similar missions. Once you've identified potential partners, reach out to them with a clear proposal that outlines the benefits of collaboration.

    • 2.  Cultivating Long-Lasting Relationships

    Building lasting partnerships requires effort and commitment. Communication is key. Regularly update your partner on progress and challenges. This transparency builds trust and strengthens the relationship.

    Set clear expectations from the start. Agree on shared goals, timelines, and roles. This clarity avoids misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page. Celebrate successes together and address any issues promptly. A strong partnership is built on mutual respect and understanding.

    • 3.  Leveraging AuSAE Membership for Success

    As a member of the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE), you have access to exclusive resources and networking opportunities. Use your membership to connect with potential partners and explore collaboration opportunities.

    Attend AuSAE events to meet like-minded professionals and industry leaders. Participate in workshops and seminars to gain insights and skills that enhance your collaboration efforts. Your AuSAE membership is a valuable tool in forging impactful partnerships.

    For more information about becoming a member, visit www.ausae.org.au/membership


  • 20 Oct 2025 12:15 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    At ACE 2025, Mitch Wall and Prue Baum from the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) shared a fascinating session, now also presented as a webinar, on how workforce-centred technology can transform associations. Their insights highlight a strategic shift: moving beyond traditional membership models to solve real workforce challenges.


    Rigorous User Research Drives Product Success

    Developing successful solutions starts with understanding the people you serve. APNA invested in extensive research, including focus groups, stakeholder interviews, prototyping, and validation at industry events. By engaging hundreds of nurses and other stakeholders, they distilled insights into actionable product features. “We did workshopping, we did focus groups with nurses, internal and external. Then we validated with prototypes. That learning shaped our final product,” Mitch explained.

    Diversified Revenue Beyond Membership Fees

    Workforce-centred platforms open up new revenue streams. APNA’s Florence platform, for example, includes banner advertising, sponsored content, and a professional matching service called Matchmaker, helping organisations connect with nurses holding specific expertise. These initiatives reduce reliance on traditional membership fees while delivering tangible value.

    Procurement Does Not Equal Innovation

    A critical reminder for associations: buying existing solutions is not the same as innovating. “Procurement does not equal innovation,” Prue emphasised. True innovation involves creating custom solutions that address workforce needs, not simply adopting off-the-shelf products.

    Rapid Growth Through Non-Member Acquisition

    By focusing on solving workforce problems rather than solely serving existing members, associations can reach entirely new audiences. Florence attracted nearly 5,000 nurses in just over three months - 57% of whom had never interacted with APNA before. This demonstrates the potential of workforce-centred solutions to expand an association’s impact far beyond its membership base.

    Blue Ocean Strategy: Create Uncontested Market Space

    Instead of competing in crowded markets, associations can create new opportunities by addressing unmet workforce needs. “Blue Ocean is about playing a different game,” Mitch said. By inventing solutions for real problems, associations can make competition irrelevant, differentiate themselves, and generate new demand.

    Transform Learning into Workforce Intelligence

    Standardising the capture of professional development allows associations to generate real-time workforce data. Florence provides longitudinal, de-identified insights that strengthen advocacy efforts and inform evidence-based policy recommendations. “We’re turning learning into intelligence,” Prue noted, highlighting the system-wide impact of such data.

    Focus on Workforce Problems, Not Internal Processes

    Innovation should start with genuine workforce pain points, not internal organisational issues. By focusing on the whole workforce, associations can create solutions that serve entire industries, not just their paying members.

    Continuous Learning Ownership and Empowerment

    Effective CPD platforms empower professionals to take ownership of their learning journey. Florence encourages nurses to capture all forms of professional development, using language and tools that make the experience personal and meaningful.

    Measurable Impact Through User Engagement

    User engagement, not just registrations, measures the success of workforce-centred technology. In its first three months, Florence’s nearly 5,000 users recorded 30,000 CPD entries, evidence of genuine value delivery and active participation.

    Make Professional Development Personal and Visual

    Modern CPD solutions should visualise professional growth and provide personalised insights. Florence allows nurses to see their learning in context, compare their expertise to peers, and identify development opportunities across different settings. “This is my learning, this is my CPD, this is my nursing career,” said Prue. “It’s an insight nurses have never had before.”

    Workforce-centred technology is transforming how associations grow, engage, and create value. By prioritising real workforce needs, associations can drive innovation, diversify revenue, and expand their reach well beyond traditional membership models.

    If you missed the session and would like to watch the webinar, log in to the Member area to access AuSAE’s Association Knowledge webinars anytime or get in touch with the AuSAE team by emailing
    info@ausae.org.au



  • 20 Oct 2025 12:13 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    Build 3 new connections at our next event

    Building strong connections is a key skill for emerging leaders in the association sector looking to grow their influence and impact. In this article, we’ll share practical networking strategies that will help you build meaningful relationships, gain fresh insights, and boost your confidence in professional settings. Don’t miss out on our upcoming events, where you can meet like-minded peers and seasoned industry leaders ready to support your career growth.



    Here are some strategies for making the most out of your networking opportunities.

    Why Networking Matters

    Networking is more than just exchanging business cards; it's about creating lasting relationships that can open doors to new opportunities. By connecting with others, you gain access to diverse perspectives and insights that can enrich your professional journey. Whether you're looking to advance in your career or gain more industry knowledge, networking is a crucial step. Understanding the value of these connections is the first step towards making them work for you.

    Building Meaningful Connections

    Creating genuine connections requires more than just small talk. Engage with others by showing genuine interest in their stories and experiences. Ask open-ended questions to learn more and share your own experiences authentically. This approach not only builds trust but also lays the foundation for a mutually beneficial relationship. Remember, the quality of your connections is more important than the quantity. Here are some tips to help you tackle common networking hurdles.

    Overcoming Networking Challenges

    Networking can be daunting, especially for those new to it. Common challenges include feeling shy or not knowing how to start a conversation. Begin by focusing on shared interests or mutual goals to break the ice. Preparation is key - know who will be at the event and plan a few conversation starters. This will help ease any anxiety and make networking a more enjoyable experience. Discover how AuSAE supports your networking journey in the next section.

    AuSAE's Role in Your Networking Journey

    At AuSAE, we're committed to fostering a supportive community where you can thrive. Our events are designed to connect you with industry leaders and peers who share your passion for growth and development. We offer resources to help you refine your networking skills and maximise these opportunities. Join us at our next event to see how our community can support your career in association management. Here’s what’s coming up:

    2025 Women in Association Leadership Series Featuring international speaker, Lauren Parsons, “How to Thrive as a Leader – 3 Keys to being Vibrant, Confident and Energised”

    Association Skills Lab Online Workshop

    AuSAE Virtual Demo Day – FREE Event

    Don't wait - take the first step towards building your professional network. Share this with a colleague or join our next event.

    P.S. Stay ahead in your career by making three new connections at our next event.

  • 17 Oct 2025 12:03 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    AuSAE recently hosted a webinar presented by ASI that explored the challenges and opportunities facing association executives today, offering an essential framework for a thriving association: The 3 Rs of Membership: Recruit, Retain, and Renew.

    The reality is membership stability is under pressure. According to the 2025 Membership Performance Benchmark Report, only 32% of associations reported an increase in retention rates. If your association is quietly losing members, it's time to leverage the 3 Rs for tangible growth!

    The conversations, and your own answers in the live polls, showed us that the association world is shifting its focus. When asked what single measure was most important for tracking improvement, Engagement Rate was the clear winner, underscoring a priority on quality over pure quantity:

    Key Measure

    Poll Results

    Engagement rate

    40%

    Retention rate

    33%

    Membership strength

    18%

    Member impact

    8%

    Member “vibe”

    1%

    Something else

    0%


    This focus on the quality of the member experience is key. As Paul Ramsbottom, Managing Director at ASI, perfectly put it: "The shift in focus from mere member count to the depth of member engagement is critical. You can recruit members all day, but if you're not strategically engaging and retaining them, you're filling a bucket with a hole in it. The 3 Rs are your essential strategy to plug that hole."

    Let’s unpack three wins we can all implement.

    Quick Win #1: Clarity is Kindness: Communicating Your Value (Recruit)

    Before anyone commits to joining (or staying!), they need to know exactly why your association is worth their time and money. That means having a clear, compelling Member Value Proposition (MVP).

    It’s lovely to know that the top three reasons people join an organisation are consistently: Networking with others in the field (64%), Continuing education/professional certification (39%), and Learning best practices in their profession (33%).



    Key Takeaway: Ensure your MVP clearly maps to these top drivers, and that every department can articulate it consistently. If the value isn't obvious, the renewal won't be either!

    Quick Win #2: Nurture the Newbies: Master the Onboarding Journey (Retain)

    The first year is the most crucial, and often the most fragile! It’s easy for new members to feel lost after the initial welcome. We need to focus on making that first year validating and engaging.

    Amber Robinson, Client Performance Improvement Leader at ASI, gave us a great perspective on this: "Retention starts the moment they click 'join.' The first 12 months are the most fragile period in a member's lifecycle. We need to move beyond a generic welcome email and create a validating, demonstrative, and celebratory journey to secure that first renewal."

    To make this simple, focus on four key phases in that first year, using Personas (like "Mid-Career Marketer Matt") to guide your outreach:

    1. VALIDATE (Days 1–14): Reinforce the good decision. Send a warm welcome call, mail a personalised welcome pack, and introduce them to another member.
    2. DEMONSTRATE (14 Days – 3 Months): Show them how to use their benefits. Email key features, provide a new member learning pathway, and invite them to an event.
    3. CELEBRATE (3 – 9 Months): Surprise and delight them (maybe with a free resource or event invite) and seek feedback with a friendly "Flash" survey.
    4. RENEWAL (9 – 12 Months): Execute a personalised strategy. Provide a specific renewal offer and ensure non-renewals receive a follow-up phone call.
    Quick Win #3: Get Smart with Engagement Scoring (Renew)

    We all agreed that Engagement Rate is the metric of the future, but getting there can feel like a climb. The poll on implementing engagement scoring showed us exactly where the hurdles are:

    Obstacle to Engagement Scoring

    Poll Results

    Lack of skills or time

    49%

    Lack of tools or technology

    36%

    Lack of complete data

    32%

    Lack of a single record of truth

    24%

    Unsure of our “why”

    11%

    Nothing – we are already underway!

    11%


    Paul Ramsbottom
    shared some reassuring thoughts here: "It's no surprise that 'Lack of skills or time' was the top barrier, every association professional is stretched. But what’s often the root cause of that is data being siloed. Our goal must be to simplify that process, ensuring technology works for the strategy, connecting systems, and providing the single 'Record of Truth' needed for accurate, measurable engagement."

    The key is to start small! Create a simple written engagement plan where you decide what to score (e.g., event attendance, committee participation, content downloads) and then use those scores to create just a few segments (High, Medium, Low) to guide your outreach. Personalized outreach beats generic emails every time!

    Your Roadmap for Thriving Membership!

    The path to a happier, healthier membership base doesn't have to be complicated. By focusing on the 3 Rs, you can start driving growth today!

    Here are the five simple Key Takeaways to make your next steps easy and effective:

    1. Communicate your MVP (member value proposition) – ensure your member value proposition is clear and consistent.
    2. Design a best-practice onboarding journey to copy – secure that critical first-year renewal.
    3. Put together a written engagement plan – start scoring and segmenting your members based on activity.
    4. Create your first persona to get started quickly & easily – focus on one key member type.
    5. Create a couple of member journey maps for your persona – plan out their ideal path to value and renewal.

    Ultimately, the goal is to move beyond a simple score to continuous, personalised engagement, delivering content and offers based on individual activity, ensuring your members feel valued and supported at every stage of their journey.

    Ensure you have the tools and resources to support your Member Journeys. Download the Association Executive Guide to Improving Organisation Performance – NEW 5th Edition here.

    If you missed our webinar last month, you can watch it here.


    We can’t wait to see your growth stories.

  • 19 Sep 2025 2:28 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is delighted to announce the renewal of its Alliance Partnership with Causeis, reaffirming a shared commitment to empowering and advancing the association sector across Australia and New Zealand.

    The renewed partnership continues to build on a strong foundation of collaboration and shared purpose — supporting association leaders with the insights, technology, and strategies they need to lead confidently in an evolving digital landscape.

    Toni Brearley CAE, Chief Executive Officer at AuSAE, said the partnership reflects AuSAE’s ongoing mission to connect and strengthen the association community.

    “We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Causeis, an organisation that deeply understands the opportunities and challenges facing associations today. Their commitment to innovation and practical digital transformation aligns perfectly with AuSAE’s vision to support and empower association leaders to thrive.”

    Michelle Lelempsis, CEO and Founder at Causeis, said the partnership demonstrates Causeis’s ongoing investment in the future of the association community.

    “We’re proud to renew our Alliance Partnership with AuSAE, continuing our commitment to supporting and empowering the association sector across Australia and New Zealand. Partnerships like this matter,  AuSAE provides a vital platform for association leaders to connect, learn, and grow. We’re proud to contribute by bringing our expertise in digital transformation, technology, and strategy.”

    At Causeis, the focus remains on helping associations unlock growth through strategy, technology, and data-driven transformation. Through solutions like the Causeis Launchpad, a purpose-built digital platform designed to drive engagement, streamline operations, and accelerate growth. Causeis continues to set the benchmark for digital innovation in the association sector.

    Together, AuSAE and Causeis look forward to another year of collaboration, innovation, and shared success in supporting association professionals to create lasting impact for their members and communities.

  • 16 Sep 2025 11:36 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    At ACE 2025, AuSAE proudly unveiled an exciting new addition to our member services - Simon, our AI Knowledge Assistant. Named in honour of AuSAE’s first President and Life Member, Simon Pryor, this innovative tool continues his legacy of knowledge-sharing and support for the association community.

    Simon says: “Ask me anything!”

    Simon makes accessing information easier, faster, and more personalised support for our members. Members can now ask questions about member engagement, events, professional development, governance or sector insights, and get reliable answers in real time. He also helps navigate AuSAE’s resources, including trusted partner content, research, best practice guides, and event information.

    Unlike public AI tools, AuSAE’s AI Knowledge Assistant is trained specifically on AuSAE’s own content and trusted partner resources. This means your queries are answered with information that is relevant to the association sector, and your questions aren’t sent out to the broader internet.

    “Simon represents a new chapter in how we support our members,” says Toni Brearley CAE, AuSAE CEO. “By combining the latest AI technology with our commitment to knowledge-sharing, we’re making it easier than ever for our members to access the support and insights they need, anytime, anywhere. Simon doesn’t just answer questions; he connects our members with the full range of services, research, and trusted partner resources that AuSAE offers, all in a secure and focused environment.”

    Enhancing Member Services

    Simon is more than just an information tool, he’s your guide to the full range of member services, including:

    • Resources: Quick access to on-demand webinars, courses, and certification guidance.
    • Research & Insights: Links to the latest reports, trends, and case studies in the association sector.
    • Event Navigation: Assistance with AuSAE events and professional development opportunities.
    • Membership Support: Help with onboarding emails, membership strategies, and more.
    • Compliance Support: Guidance on policies, frameworks, and sector best practices.

    Simon says: “Save time, make informed decisions, and get the most out of your AuSAE membership!”

    At ACE 2025, members got to experience Simon first-hand, asking questions, exploring resources, and seeing how this AI assistant can become a trusted part of their professional toolkit. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many excited about having on-demand access to sector-specific insights and support.

    Continuing a Legacy of Knowledge
    By naming the AI Assistant after Simon Pryor, AuSAE honours a figure who set the foundation for knowledge-sharing within the association community. Just as Simon Pryor inspired learning and leadership, Ask Simon is here to extend that spirit into the digital age.

    Whether you’re a seasoned association professional or just starting out, Simon is ready to support your journey, bringing knowledge, guidance, and insight right to your fingertips, in a secure and relevant way.

    Simon says: “Discover me today in the Member Hub and see how I can support you!

  • 16 Sep 2025 11:35 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    There’s something special that happens when association professionals come together, and ACE 2025 at Marvel Stadium proved it once again. For two-and-a-half days, the stadium was buzzing with energy, ideas, and connections that you just can’t capture on a screen.


    From the welcome function, where laughter and conversations filled the room, to the final debate and toast over wine and cheese, ACE was more than just a conference. It was a community coming alive.

    As AuSAE CEO Toni Brearley CAE said so perfectly:

    “For me, the best part is the people. You could feel it from the very first moment - the energy, the generosity, the way everyone leans in to connect and share. That’s what makes ACE so powerful. It’s not just about the content; it’s about the community. And this community is extraordinary.”

    Key moments that had everyone talking:

    • Rosie Thomas OAM set the tone with a heartfelt keynote on Building Communities, Creating Change that left the room buzzing.
    • Nigel Collin challenged us to embrace a Growth Mindset of Change, inspiring plenty of “aha” moments.
    • Big ideas and fresh insights from association leaders and experts in AI, governance, events, and member engagement and more.
    • The ACE Exhibition was a hub of innovation, showcasing the latest solutions and tools designed to help associations work smarter, engage members, and stay ahead in a rapidly changing sector.
    • Rita Arrigo took us boldly into the future, unpacking AI in Associations and what’s possible when we embrace innovation.
    • Tracey O’Neill brought it back to our roots, asking whether volunteering is our sector’s true superpower.
    • Interactive sessions and panels packed with tools and takeaways to bring back to your association
    • Recognising and celebrating our newest Certified Association Executive (CAEs):  Jennifer Bowden CAE – Mathematical Association of Victoria, Marie Walters CAE – Country Fire Authority, Jon Cullum CAE – The Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Rachel Corby CAE – Australian Water Association, Chris Marrs CAE – Migration Institute of Australia and Leigh Clarke CAE – Victorian Healthcare Association
    • The launch of AuSAE’s Council of Professions (ACoP) chapter, a milestone moment for our community.
    • And of course, meeting Simon, AuSAE’s new AI Knowledge Assistant, who made his debut at ACE. Named in honour of AuSAE’s first President and Life Member, Simon Pyror, continuing his legacy of knowledge sharing.

    And then there were the in-between moments: swapping ideas over coffee, reconnecting with old colleagues, and making new connections at Cocktails on the Boundary sponsored by Marvel Stadium. These are the kinds of memories you take home and the kind of momentum that creates real change back in your associations.

    Why you don’t want to miss the next one

    If you weren’t with us this year, you missed the spark. You missed the chance to be in the room when new ideas were designed, when challenges were tackled head-on, and when the future of our profession was imagined together.

    As one of our delegates, Saskia Moon, shared on LinkedIn:

    “My first conference with you, thanks for a wonderful 2 days! I met so many great people and attended some thought-provoking sessions. Very well organised, I definitely hope to be back next year.”

    To all who joined us – association professionals and leaders, speakers and partners - thank you for bringing your energy, your curiosity, and your voices. You made ACE 2025 what it was: unforgettable.

    See you in 2026!

  • 19 Aug 2025 11:42 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    The future of associations isn’t something that just happens—it’s something we create together. And there’s no better place to do that than ACE 2025: Unmasking the Future.

    From 10–12 September 2025, Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium will become a hub for big conversations, bold ideas, and real connections—the kind that change the way we lead and work in our associations.

    Opening Keynote: Rosie Thomas OAM – Building Communities, Creating Change

    We’re kicking things off with Rosie Thomas OAM, founder of PROJECT ROCKIT and one of Australia’s most inspiring change-makers. Her keynote isn’t just about ideas - it’s about action. Rosie will show us how building stronger communities can create real, meaningful change. It’s energetic, thought-provoking, and the perfect way to start ACE 2025.

    Your host for the conference: Andrew Klein, MC
    Andrew will guide you through the program, keep the energy high, and make sure every session flows seamlessly.


    Sessions You Won’t Want to Miss

    Reinvention in Practice: Real Stories of Reinvention, Revenue and Risk-Taking
    A panel + white paper launch moderated by Deanna Varga, with speakers Debra Cerasa, Bernard Depasquale, and Brenda Davy. Real stories, practical lessons, and plenty of inspiration.

    One Association, Many Communities
    Hear from Mary Louise Huppatz, CEO of ATEM, on how associations can embrace diversity in all its forms.

    Membership Exchange
    Join Paul Ramsbottom and your peers for a practical, peer-led discussion packed with fresh ideas, benchmark data, and strategies for growing membership, boosting engagement, and smoothing the member journey.

    Beyond Duty: Designing Governance Environments that Attract and Engage the Right Directors
    Steven Bowman dives into governance that actually works for people, not just processes.

    The Partnership Playbook: How to Attract, Engage and Grow Your Association's Corporate Partnerships
    Mike Barouche shows how to create partnerships that really deliver.

    Cutting Through the Noise: Creating Communications that Members Actually Notice
    With Felocity Zadro & Debbie Bradley, learn how to make your communications stand out in a busy world.

    5 Reasons You’ll Love ACE 2025

    1. Make real connections
      Meet people who get it. The conversations here often spark collaborations and ideas that actually take off.
    2. Be challenged and inspired
      From global voices to sector leaders, the speakers will push you to think differently—and leave you buzzing with new ideas.
    3. Discover tools that actually work
      Whether it’s tech, strategies, or fresh approaches, ACE 2025 is packed with solutions to help you create more value for your members.
    4. Dive deep into what matters
      Open-format discussions and case studies give you actionable insights, not just theory.
    5. Hit refresh on your purpose
      Sometimes stepping back is the best way forward. ACE gives you space to think, plan, and reconnect with why you do what you do.

    ACE 2025 isn’t just another conference - it’s where ideas turn into action, connections become collaborations, and you leave ready to make the future happen.

    Register now  - www.ausae.org.au/ace

  • 28 Jul 2025 11:45 AM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    In July 2025, the Australian Government issued its response to the Senate Economics References Committee’s final report on Not-for-profit entities – Tax assessments. While the response stops short of major policy changes, it contains important clarifications that AuSAE members, especially those managing non-charitable NFPs, need to understand.

    No New Requirement to Register with ACNC
     A central concern in the sector was whether the recent requirement to lodge a self-review return implied a new obligation for NFPs with only charitable purposes to register with the ACNC. The Government clarified this is not the case:

    • Only NFPs seeking income tax exemption as charities must be registered with the ACNC, a rule in place since 2012.
    • Non-charitable NFPs can remain outside the ACNC framework but must still complete the ATO’s self-review return if they wish to claim income tax exemption.
    What’s Changing (and What’s Not)
    The self-review return requirement introduced in the 2021–22 Federal Budget and now administered by the ATO does not change the criteria for tax exemption. However, it formally documents a NFP’s self-assessment of its eligibility for income tax exemption.For many small, volunteer-led NFPs, this has introduced confusion and administrative burden. The Government’s response notes several mitigation strategies:
    • The ATO is taking a practical compliance approach and will pre-populate future returns to reduce administrative effort.
    • Entities without an ABN remain exempt from the requirement—reducing burden on some low-risk organisations.
    What Didn’t Change (But Might Have Helped)
    The Government declined to immediately adopt several committee recommendations that would have significantly reduced the compliance burden, including:
    • Introducing a turnover threshold to exempt small, low-risk NFPs.
    • Extending the March 31, 2025 deadline—though the ATO retains the power to offer deferrals.
    • Moving administration to the ACNC—deemed likely to increase, rather than decrease, compliance requirements for non-charity NFPs.
    A Need for Better Guidance and Engagement
    The Committee called for improved ATO/ACNC guidance and more direct engagement with the sector. While the Government “noted” these suggestions, it placed responsibility on the ATO and ACNC as independent bodies to determine how best to support the sector.This leaves many AuSAE members, especially those in smaller associations and sporting bodies navigating the process with limited clarity and few concessions.

    Looking Ahead

    While no immediate relief is on offer, the Government’s response reinforces the importance of ongoing advocacy to ensure the voice of non-charitable NFPs is heard. AuSAE will continue to engage with Treasury, the ATO, and ACNC to reduce unnecessary burden and ensure guidance reflects the realities of small, volunteer-driven organisations.

  • 22 Jul 2025 12:04 PM | Sarah Gamble (Administrator)

    AuSAE members invited to join sector-wide data project with exclusive 60% discount

    The FY26 Not-for-Profit Remuneration Survey is now open - and AuSAE members are invited to take part in this critical, sector-strengthening initiative led by Enterprise Care, Australia’s trusted authority in NFP remuneration benchmarking.

    In return for contributing your organisation’s salary data, you’ll unlock an exclusive 60% discount on the upcoming FY26 NFP Remuneration Portal, launching 27 October 2025. This interactive tool provides Australia and New Zealand’s most comprehensive and up-to-date salary benchmarking, helping leaders make confident, data-informed remuneration decisions.

    All participants will also receive the Exclusive Insights Report, featuring detailed analysis of current trends, including CEO remuneration, provided CEO data is submitted.

    Why your input matters:
    Recent data highlights key challenges in NFP workforce retention and planning:

    • Over 60% of candidates now expect higher salaries

    • The top reason for turnover is salary dissatisfaction

    • Pay has risen 5–7% over the past two years

    • Over 50% of NFPs plan to hire in FY25

    • Hybrid work is helping retain talent

    By submitting data, quickly and confidentially, you’ll help strengthen transparency and build more accurate, real-world benchmarks that benefit the entire sector.

    Even if you're unable to provide data, AuSAE members still receive a $100 discount on the Portal RRP, simply for being part of the network.

    Start the survey now

    For assistance, contact Tracy Portarianos at portarianost@enterprisecare.com.au or 0408 210 661.

    Together, we can drive data-led change and build stronger, more equitable organisations.

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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