Program

Associations play an essential role in representing industries, professions and charities. Experienced association leaders will share perspectives on the decisions, relationships and priorities that shape successful membership organisations. Topics may include:

• The evolving role of associations in Australia
• Balancing member interests and sector-wide priorities
• Building effective Board-CEO relationships
• Leadership lessons from association challenges

Events remain important for member engagement, education, networking and revenue generation. This session will examine how associations can develop event strategies that respond to changing expectations while delivering financial and member value. The discussion will explore:

• Conference formats, destinations and attendee expectations 
• Balancing event profitability with member affordability
• Sponsorship, partnerships and commercial opportunities
• International congresses, hybrid events and emerging trends

Speaker:

• Jennifer Bowden, Chief Executive Officer, Mathematical Association of Victoria

Membership remains vital to an association's purpose and financial sustainability. This session will explore how associations can understand changing member expectations, demonstrate value and make informed decisions about recruitment and retention. Topics will include:

• Membership growth and renewal strategies 
• Member research, segmentation and engagement data
• Retention strategies and emerging member expectations
• Engaging younger members and developing future leaders

Speakers:

• Tim Horne, Chief Executive Officer, P&Cs Qld
• Anthony Ellard, Governance Officer, Australian Computer Society

Associations need to understand the economic and political environment affecting their members. This session will bring together economic commentators and industry representatives to discuss the forces shaping business confidence, productivity and public policy. The session will consider:

• Australia's economic outlook and international comparisons 
• Productivity, taxation and business competitiveness 

Education and professional development enhance member value and industry capability. This session explores effective approaches to learning programs, accreditation and training delivery. Topics will include:

• Professional standards, accreditation and continuing development
• Micro-credentials and emerging workforce competencies
• Quality assurance and sector-wide learning outcomes
• Registered training organisations and delivery partnerships

Speakers:

• Jonathan Jones, Head of Education, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia
• Lauren Hyde, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Marketing Institute
  
• Adam Kilburn, Chief Executive Officer & Public Officer, National ELT Accreditation Scheme
  

Sponsored by 

Speakers:

• Zana Monaghan, Paralegal, Governology Australia
• Izabella Hawtin, Paralegal, Governology Australia

Chaired by: Kathy Nguyen, Managing Lawyer | Head of Operations, Governology Australia

Technology is changing how associations manage data, deliver services and engage members. This session will examine how leaders can make informed technology decisions while protecting information and maintaining organisational resilience. The discussion will explore:

Associations must communicate clearly to remain visible, relevant and trusted. This session will explore how associations can strengthen their identity, reach target audiences and use communications strategically, even with limited resources. Topics will include:

• Rebranding, positioning and organisational identity
• Digital marketing, social media and targeted campaigns
• AI-assisted communications and content development
• Reputation management, misinformation and public relations

Associations may pursue mergers or restructuring to strengthen representation, improve efficiency or secure long-term sustainability. Topics will include:

• Reasons for mergers and amalgamations
• Governance arrangements and stakeholder negotiations
• Integrating people, systems and cultures
• Lessons from successful mergers and restructures

Speaker: 

• Nathan Clarke, Chief Executive Officer, Oral Health Association of Australia

Speakers:

• Mick Crouch, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Meat Industry Training Advisory Council Limited
• Matt Hall, Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Financial Management Association

A growing number of not-for-profit entities are operating with negative equity, raising serious concerns about potential insolvency. This session highlights key legal risks for directors, governance responsibilities, and practical steps to mitigate exposure.

Speaker:

• Jamieson Louttit, Partner, JLA Insolvency & Advisory

Association events, conferences and meetings require down-to-earth implementation. This session will focus on the practical tasks and tips necessary for success, including:

This session will draw on collective knowledge to address common issues facing CEOs and senior executives. The session will focus on:

Understanding the role and responsibilities of a Chair ensures the effective operation of the Board and governance of an association. A Chairs panel will discuss:

Associations facing declining membership, financial pressure or governance issues must make difficult decisions to secure their future. This session explores practical strategies to restore performance and strengthen organisational sustainability. Topics include:

Micro and start-up associations face unique challenges in establishing their presence, building a membership base and creating sustainable operations. This session explores practical ways to develop membership, strengthen governance and support growth. Topics may include:

Paul Clayton, Chief Executive Officer, Student Experience Network

Anita Campbell, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Gift & Homewares Association

Matthew Harper, Chief Executive Officer, Aerial Application Association of Australia