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!

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.”

That sense of community was echoed by AuSAE President John Winter CAE, who summed up ACE beautifully:

“Got to be my favourite ACE of all time. Loved it!! ACE isn’t just a conference - it’s where the association sector comes alive. You don’t just sit in a room and take notes; you share, you challenge, you walk away with ideas that can transform your organisation. Every conversation has the potential to change the way we lead our organisations, and that’s what makes this event so unique. AuSAE is going from strength to strength!”

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!

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.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.

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.

We are sharing some exciting news that will build the strength and depth of AuSAE.

Since 1971, the Australian Council of Professions has been the unifying alliance of Professional Associations that represents close to 1 million Australian professionals including engineers, healthcare and computing professionals, veterinarians and accountants.

The Board and leadership of ACoP and AuSAE have recognised that, given our close alignment of goals, our capacity to serve our membership, much of which already overlaps, together is far greater.

As a result, ACoP is putting to their membership a plan to partner with us and become a dedicated chapter within AuSAE. This transition presents a unique opportunity to renew ACoP’s mission of advancing the standing of professions and promoting professionalism across Australia, while also growing AuSAE’s own offering, scale and relevance.

This transformation will enable ACoP to continue its legacy built over more than 50 years, while ensuring greater sustainability, relevance, and impact for both organisations.

ACoP membership will in the future be in addition to AuSAE organisational or individual membership.

ACoP members will soon receive a notice for a special general meeting and a special resolution to wind up the ACoP entity. This will include a vote to allow them to distribute surplus assets to AuSAE to enable the new Council of Professions chapter.

The planned official launch of the new AuSAE Council of Professions (ACoP) chapter will occur at ACE 2025 on 10 September 2025 at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.

Celebrating New CAEs Across Australia and New Zealand

One hundred and twenty-nine association executives recently earned their Certified Association Executive (CAE®) credential from the CAE Commission of ASAE, joining more than 4,500 industry leaders around the globe.

AuSAE is proud to welcome two of our own to this accomplished group. Please join us in congratulating:

Rachael Corby, CAE
Head of Member Engagement & Experience
Australian Water Association – Artarmon, NSW

Jon Cullum, CAE
Executive Manager, Membership and Events
Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists – Melbourne, VIC

Earning the CAE credential is the highest professional designation in the association sector, globally recognised as a mark of excellence in leadership, strategic thinking, and association management.

Toni Brearley, CAE, Chief Executive Officer, AuSAE  said, “This is a significant achievement that reflects both Rachael and Jon’s commitment to the profession and their dedication to lifelong learning. We’re proud to celebrate with them as part of our growing CAE community across Australia and New Zealand.”

The CAE Program elevates professional standards, enhances individual performance, and recognises those who have demonstrated the knowledge essential to association leadership. The program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

Congratulations again, Rachael and Jon, we’re thrilled to celebrate this achievement with you. We are #CAEproud.

Learn more about the CAE credential: buff.ly/4cyy2UI
Read the full announcement from ASAE – The Center for Association Leadership: buff.ly/KwyqoQw

In a world where change is constant and complexity is the new normal, boards are facing unprecedented challenges—and opportunities.

From navigating digital transformation and ESG imperatives to managing workforce dynamics and stakeholder expectations, the role of stewardship has never been more critical.

But what are the real priorities keeping board members up at night in 2025? And how are they preparing to meet these challenges head-on?

That’s where you come in.

Why Your Input Matters

Enterprise Care is conducting a short, high-impact survey to uncover the Top Priorities and Challenges Facing Boards in 2025.

Your insights will help build a clearer picture of what’s driving boardroom conversations, decisions and strategies across sectors.

Whether you're a board member, executive, governance professional or advisor—your perspective is invaluable.

What You’ll Help Us Discover

• The most pressing issues boards are tackling today
• Emerging risks and opportunities shaping governance
• Shifts in boardroom dynamics, culture and leadership
• How boards are adapting to regulatory, technological and societal change

Quick. Easy. Impactful.

This survey takes just a few minutes to complete, but the impact of your contribution will be long-lasting. The findings will inform future tools, resources and thought leadership - helping boards stay agile, informed and highly effective.

Take the Survey Now

Click here to complete the survey

Your voice matters. Help us shape the future of your sector.

The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is proud to announce the appointment of three highly respected association leaders to its Board of Directors, following a recent member election.

Joining the AuSAE Board are:

• David Jenkins, Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia
• Matt Connor CAE, Head of Communications & Corporate Services, Australian Water Association
• Vicki Mayo, Chief Executive Officer, Local Government Professionals Australia NSW

Each of these accomplished professionals brings a wealth of experience in association leadership and a shared passion for supporting and advancing those who lead associations across Australia and New Zealand.

They will join their fellow Board members, Craig Young CAE, Debra Cerasa, Nick Pilavidis CAE, Kirsty Kelly, and Robin Shepherd CAE, under the leadership of AuSAE President, John Winter CAE.

We would also like to extend sincere thanks and appreciation to outgoing Board members Lindsay McGrath CAE, Alan McDonald, and Greg Wallace for their invaluable service, dedication, and contribution to the sector during their tenure.

John Winter CAE, President of AuSAE and Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Property Institute, welcomed the new Directors, saying:

"These new appointments represent the strength and diversity of our sector. David, Matt, and Vicki bring deep insight and fresh energy to our leadership group, and I look forward to working alongside them to continue delivering meaningful value to our members. On behalf of the Board, I thank our outgoing Directors for their dedication and service to AuSAE and the sector."

We would like to express our gratitude to all the members who participated in the election process and congratulate the newly elected board members. 

-- Ends --

About AuSAE – Australasian Society of Association Executives
AuSAE is the professional home for association executives in Australia and New Zealand. We provide resources, education, networking opportunities, and a strong community to support those who lead and manage associations.

With a focus on excellence in association leadership, AuSAE empowers members to create lasting impact in the industries, professions, and communities they serve.

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Media Contact:

Sarah Gamble
Marketing & Communications Manager
AuSAE – Australasian Society of Association Executives
sarah@ausae.org.au
www.ausae.org.au

Inland Revenue has just released a draft operational statement (ED0265) about the income tax treatment of transactions between not-for-profit associations (Mutual Associations) and their members. This statement is currently open for consultation and will significantly impact the tax obligations of a wide range of not-for-profit associations, including clubs, societies, cooperatives, and professional bodies.

• Historically, associations may not have paid tax on surpluses, but this is very likely to change going forward for most.

Our view is this clarification represents a tax on organisations that are not registered charities or otherwise exempt under specific sections of the Income Tax Act.

This is not a change in law but a clarification of IRD’s view. The statement aims to clarify the tax rules for amounts received by associations from transactions with their members. This is an area that has previously been unclear with varying treatment across different organisations.  

While there is a lot to consider in this document, our initial review has highlighted  concerns about membership subscriptions, fees, and levies becoming taxable, particularly for associations prohibited from distributing funds to members.

The new Incorporated Societies Act 2022 requires that re registered incorporated societies do not allow distributions to members – meaning that those entities are highly exposed.

One positive in the operational statement is it will apply prospectively from the date of publication, meaning Inland Revenue will not adjust past assessments.

Inland Revenue is seeking feedback on the interpretative approach and operational proposals in this statement. Comments are welcome until 25 June 2025. We will likely be making a submission and encourage you to provide feedback to Inland Revenue if you have any concerns or suggestions.

We will be considering this operational statement and how it works in practice along with some illustrative examples, so watch this space.  

For more information, contact:

Barry Baker 
Partner
Grant Thornton New Zealand
M  021 797 221
grantthornton.co.nz