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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:
Too many start-ups begin with energy and good intent, but without the structure, resources or discipline required to succeed. That’s when things start to unravel.
With these initial considerations in mind, let’s explore the foundational steps to successfully start a new association.
Strong governance is not optional—it’s essential. You need:
• A constitution that is compliant, practical and flexible
• Clear governance structures
• Directors who understand their legal responsibilities
Without this, issues will emerge quickly—especially as you grow or face challenges.
Before you launch into activity, step back and define your purpose. A 3–5 year strategic plan should outline:
• What you are trying to achieve
• Who are you serving
• What success looks like
Without this, associations drift—and members notice quickly.
Spreadsheets and manual processes might work for a short time—but not for long. You will need an integrated platform that supports:
• Membership
• Communications
• Events
• Financial integration
As a guide, expect to invest around $20,000 for a suitable system and implementation. Cutting corners here leads to higher costs later.
If you can’t clearly answer “why would someone join?”—you have a problem. You need:
• Clear membership categories
• A compelling value proposition
• Structured engagement and renewal processes
Membership growth requires intentional design.
Most new associations start with a volunteer board. That’s fine—but it’s not a long-term operating model. Volunteer capacity is limited, and without support:
• Administration slips
• Communication becomes inconsistent
• Momentum is lost
Professional management or secretariat support can make a significant difference early.
This is where many new associations fall down. You need a clear plan to fund:
• Technology
• Operations
• Member services
• Growth
Good intentions don’t fund an association—cash flow does.
If your current association isn’t delivering, it’s worth asking:
• Can it be improved or influenced from within?
• Is there genuine demand for a new organisation?
• Do you have the commitment—time, people and funding—to do it properly?
Because starting a new association is not the easy option. But done well, it can be incredibly impactful.
The associations that succeed aren’t the ones that start the fastest. They’re the ones that:
• Build strong governance
• Invest early
• Stay focused on member value.
• And take a disciplined, long-term approach.
Need help getting started with your new association or NFP? Give us a call at Association Executive Services on 03 8393 9382 to discuss this further
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Risk management is one of those areas that every association and not-for-profit Board knows is important - but it can sometimes become
little more than a risk register reviewed once or twice a year.
Insurance can be treated in much the same way.
The organisation receives its annual insurance renewal, the premium is approved, the policy is renewed and everyone assumes the organisation
is covered.
A practical look at volunteer governance, operational decision-making and what the events industry needs to understand about associations.
Nick Koerbin has spent many years working with professional and industry associations, and he has developed a simple habit: whenever he
meets a professional, he often asks whether they belong to their association — and whether they believe the membership is worth it.
A recent conversation with a young allied health professional raised some important questions about membership value, relevance and the
expectations of the next generation.
In this article, Nick shares that conversation and challenges association leaders to consider a simple but confronting question:
Would the next generation of professionals in your sector believe your association is worth joining?
How we help membership based, not-for-profit associations now and into the future.
