Join
AES
Join
AES
Contact
Us
Contact
Us
AES provides support services to not-for-profit organisations.
One of the main revenue streams for many associations is their annual or biannual conference. Anyone who has planned one knows that securing sponsorship is often the most time-consuming and frustrating task.
Hiring a consultant for a specific task is fundamentally different from engaging one to drive organisational transformation.
Boards often recognise the need for change when membership stagnates, governance weakens, strategy stalls, or momentum declines. Engaging a
consultant at this point is a sound decision.
We’re seeing a growing trend. More and more groups are reaching out to start new associations.
In most cases, the reason is the same: "Our current association isn’t delivering."
That may well be true. Starting a new association is a serious commitment, not just a reaction. Let me be clear:
One of the most common — and often unexpected — challenges faced by association boards and leaders arises when a member develops a grievance against the organisation. In the association sector, this is not unusual. Most grievances begin with a concern or disagreement, but if not handled appropriately, they can escalate into a prolonged and disruptive issue.
Insights from the AES Technology Survey and Special Interest Group Discussion
Artificial Intelligence is now part of daily work for many association professionals.
Association Executive Services (AES) are soon to release its
annual report on technology in Australian Associations and recently facilitated a special interest group discussion on the use of AI in
participants' organisations.
The Challenge of Prorated Membership and Renewal Cycles
Anyone responsible for membership in an association understands this tension:
Do we renew members on the anniversary of their joining date, or operate on a single annual renewal date?
And if we operate on a single renewal date, how and when should prorated membership apply?
Here is a deeper exploration of each model — with practical examples drawn from real-world association operations.
.jpg)
When associations discuss upgrading their websites, the conversation often starts with design, branding, and visual appeal.
Business events in Australia contribute over $36B annually and are growing fast!
Check out our latest article for essential tips on venue selection, security, insurance, and more—plus key stats like $21.4B in traveller
spend and 11% projected growth.
It’s the Gala Awards night – but are your awards truly valued by most of your members?
Most association leaders face a persistent challenge: growing and retaining members. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of
members who join for a year, drop off, and then rejoin two years later. While this cycle may seem harmless, it carries hidden costs—such
as staff time, marketing expenses, onboarding resources, and software overhead—that
can quietly drain your association’s budget.
Running an association or not-for-profit (NFP) is no small feat. Whether you're leading a professional body, a community group, or a
national peak organisation, one question always lingers:
“How do we know we’re doing well?”
It’s a fair question—and an important one.
A Director Penalty Notice (DPN) is a formal notice issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) that holds company directors personally liable for specific unpaid company tax obligations.
Too often, associations are eager to expand their membership before ensuring the organisation is on solid footing. But real, sustainable growth starts from within. Before you open the doors to new members, it's essential to check that the ship is seaworthy—strategically, financially, and operationally.
While design matters, this narrow focus misses the bigger picture: your website is not just a communications tool—it's a core operational platform.
Is your association growing—or just getting by?
What are the secrets to onboarding new members to your Association
The first meeting of an association's Board marks the beginning of a critical working relationship between Board members and the organisation they serve. It sets the tone for governance, collaboration, and strategic direction. A well-structured induction process ensures that new Board members are informed and confident and can contribute meaningfully from day one.
How to handle media calls
Sustainable, diverse revenue streams are vital for economic stability, long-term success, and enhancing value to your members.
Empowering the Association CEO is not just a step but the pivotal first step towards achieving Association Excellence.
For many associations and not-for-profit organisations, annual conferences or events are a highlight of the year. These gatherings provide a platform for members to connect, learn, and share ideas. Volunteers' contributions are often indispensable to ensure these events run smoothly.
.png)
What critical actions are required by all new potential members wishing to join your association, not for profit organisation or charity?
-(1).png)
The Queensland Government's Made in Queensland program expansion represents a significant opportunity for associations whose members operate within or contribute to the manufacturing sector. This initiative aligns with the state's broader objectives to bolster local manufacturing capabilities, foster innovation, and attract new businesses, ensuring Queensland remains a competitive and thriving industrial hub.
For over seven years during the 1990s, I was involved with the Total Quality Management Institute, formed by leaders of some of Australia's major corporations.
There are many challenges that associations face when generating membership growth, particularly when competing with organisations providing services similar to your potential membership base. Here are some tips worth considering that have worked for our clients.
Most Associations and NFP organisations rely on their members to govern their organisation. Many appointed to the Board have limited knowledge or training, so high-performing associations ensure their new Board members are fully inducted before attending their first Board meeting.
One of the most important functions of an NFP Board is developing, implementing, and reviewing key policies. These are critical for volunteer Boards as they often act as a reference or endorsement of their values and culture.
Although there is a buzz about AI, there are some innovative ways you can genuinely surprise your members so they remain loyal to your Association or organisation.
Many association Presidents and CEOs complain that their organisation has stalled, membership is dropping, and not much has changed in the last twelve months. So, what are the key factors separating a high-performing association from one spinning at the wheel?
How we help membership based, not-for-profit associations now and into the future.
