Planning for your 2025 Conference: Remember to Protect Your Volunteers!

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. 

Membership Onboarding Done Right: Key Governance Actions for Associations and NFPs

What critical actions are required by all new potential members wishing to join your association, not for profit organisation or charity? 

Seizing Opportunities: How Associations Can Leverage Queensland's Expanded Made in Queensland Program

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.

Newly Appointed as a Director or Officer for your Association, Society, or Non-Profit Organisation

How to develop systems that will help you grow your membership

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. 

Looking to grow your membership base?

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.

How to onboard a new Association Board Director or Committee member

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.

What are the most important policies for all associations?

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.

Want to create member loyalty - create a surprise!

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.

Belonging to an Association

How to Ensure the Viability and Relevance of Your Association

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?

Membership Renewals- Joining date or fixed date?

What are the real measures of a successful membership growth strategy?

How to manage your new Association Board

Boards and management of associations have very different roles, and these must be clearly defined to ensure that everyone is completing their responsibilities. When the Board and the CEO work effectively, operations run more smoothly.

Application Fees for New Members

Thought about an application fee for your new members?

How to develop a robust and enthusiastic Association Board

According to the latest figures from the ATO, there are 660,000 not-for-profit organisations in Australia, including registered charities, incorporated associations, and other entities.

The not-for-profit sector employs over 2 million people, and most organisations are governed by volunteer boards. Their success relies on the skills, knowledge, and experience of the appointed board or committee members.

Do we have a nomination for the role of Treasurer?

Top 5 tips before you send out member renewals

Are you about to send out your member renewals? Here are my five tips to consider before you send your renewal notices

Growing your membership with a Membership Drive

Do you need to grow your membership –it may have declined for some time.  You need to have a membership drive. So, where do we start?

Risk Assessing Third Party Agreements

No matter the size of your association, risk management is one of the significant challenges facing volunteer boards. Often, Boards are expected to meet and decide there and then to enter into contracts with suppliers, sometimes worth thousands of dollars, without a proper risk assessment.

How to deal with angry members of your Association

Have you had to deal with an angry member complaining about a service your association is providing?

Members are the lifeblood of associations, but when a member calls you to complain, how do you handle these incidents?

What are the spending limits for an Association CEO?

How much should an association or any organisation's CEO be allowed to spend?

Of course, it all depends on several factors, such as the size and financial health of the organisation. Having been a CEO of several similar organisations, here are some suggested guidelines.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Board

So, you have been elected or appointed to the Board of your member association or local not-for-profit organisation. Here is a brief overview of the roles and responsibilities of a Board.

What is next for your Association

As an association leader, you probably have a strategic plan for your organisation. But have you fully articulated why this plan is important? And have you done all of the necessary work to properly develop one?

Did you get the Association CEO job?

Congratulations if you have been appointed as the new CEO of an Association or not-for-profit Organisation.

As an association leader, I have had the opportunity to be appointed to this role several times, and I am happy to share a few lessons learned during this early time to help you succeed in your new role.

Updating your Constitution

Unlocking the Hidden Asset - Retirees can Transform your Association

In Australia, the aging population is not just a statistic but a significant shift that professional and industry-based associations must address. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that over 4.2 million Australians are retirees, and in 2023 alone, 145,000 individuals retired at an average age of 65.

However, within this challenge lies a hidden asset many associations overlook: their retired members' accumulated knowledge and experience. While many associations accommodate retiree members, only some fully tap into the wealth of expertise these individuals offer. Here are some ideas for engaging retired members

What are the Essential Skills for Association Administration Staff?

How to Craft an Effective Advocacy Strategy for Policy Change

Delve into expert tips and insights on how to implement the right strategy and tips to enrich your association's advocacy campaigns.

Closing Loopholes Changes: Closing Loopholes Bill Attains Royal Assent

The Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes No 2) came into effect on 26 February 2024. The new legislation introduces new rules and changes some existing laws, including the Fair Work Act 2009 and comes into effect at various times between now and 2025.