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Contact
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In Australia, associations make up most of the not-for-profit sector. There are thousands of associations, and most have a legal structure
either incorporated under state legislation, registered as a charity or a company limited by guarantee.
Most Associations are managed by a board or committee of unpaid volunteers recruited from the membership.
You may be a member of your professional, industry or sporting association or have the role of a board member or an employee of an
association. We take these organisations for granted, but associations can deliver exceptional value to members and the community they serve
in times of crisis.
Most associations rely on membership subscriptions ( or dues, as they say in America) to survive.
If you are a member of an association, here is why you should support your association by renewing your membership or stepping up to be on
the committee or board.
😁 Associations offer members stability and support through difficult circumstances. Belonging to a broader group outside of your own
company or organisation can give members a sense of belonging and camaraderie that is important during challenging times.
😁 Associations can provide an invaluable service to members by collecting and curating relevant information and distributing it
efficiently. During times of turmoil, the need for accurate and up-to-date information is more critical than ever.
😁Associations can be the unified voice for an entire sector or profession, advocating for member concerns and communicating member needs to
those in power.
😁Regarding government support and funding, associations can offer vital assistance in gathering information about what's available,
directing members towards the relevant programs, and assisting in putting together complex applications.
😁As our economic situation changes, staying ahead of the pack is more important than ever. Associations may offer their members education,
training and professional development opportunities to ensure they are always ready to take the next step in their careers.
The association sector is in the middle of a leadership handover.
Across Australia and New Zealand, CEOs and Executive Directors are moving on. Some are retiring. Some have gone to larger organisations.
Some have left because the relationship with their Board ran out of puff. The reasons vary, but the movement is noticeable, and Boards are
appointing replacements.
The encouraging part is the calibre of the people coming in. Many are genuinely well suited to the job — capable executives with strong
records behind them. A good number are stepping into an association CEO role for the first time.
Most associations can provide a long list of membership benefits. They may include professional development, advocacy, networking, industry information, events, resources, accreditation, discounts and access to specialist advice. However, a list of benefits does not necessarily explain why someone makes the decision to join.
While every Board is different, the same governance issues appear time and again. One of the most common is allowing one person’s behaviour
to dominate the Board table.
Almost every Board has experienced it at some point. One director who seems to consume more time and energy than everyone else combined.
How we help membership based, not-for-profit associations now and into the future.
