News from 2015
After considering submissions made to it, including by Associations Forum, the New South Wales Department of Fair Trading has completed a statutory review of the Associations Incorporation Act 2009 (the Act). The outcomes of the review, together with a full copy of the report, can be found on the Associations legislation page on the Department’s website.
The review, which was undertaken to determine whether the policy objectives of the Act remain valid and whether the terms of the Act remain…
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Reed Travel Exhibitions has announced a global agreement designating oneworld® as its exclusive airline alliance partner for 19 events in 2016, including the Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) in Melbourne, 23 – 24 February 2016.
From December 2015 visitors to AIME will be able to make flight reservations via www.oneworld.com/events for travel to and from AIME 2016 in Melbourne, Australia, and receive discounted fares…
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In a move which has flummoxed the Community Council for Australia (CCA) but unfazed the Australian charity regulator, the ACT Government is moving to introduce its own definition of charity with the recent introduction into parliament of the Revenue (Charitable Organisations) Legislation Amendment Bill 2015.
If passed, the legislation will block certain peak bodies and professional groups from claiming charitable status unless they qualify for an exemption.
Whilst the CCA is concerned…
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The Boating Industry Association of NSW & SA has today announced the appointment of Howard Glenn as National Chief Executive Officer.
Howard Glenn is no stranger to the industry having held key and senior roles in the marine divisions of the NSW Government since 2008. He has specialised in getting the private and community sectors working together with governments on complex problems. Howard has had an extensive executive career in government, non-government organisations and the private…
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Brisbane Marketing and the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) have worked in partnership to secure conferences worth more than $20 million for the city so far this financial year.
Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the 28 business events would bring in more than 11,000 delegates and create 35,000 delegate days for the city over coming years.
“This is great news for Brisbane as these conferences support our venues and hotels and provide flow-on benefits to our hospitality and…
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Governance Institute of Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Pordage FGIA as its new national president for 2016.
Mr Pordage has served on Governance Institute’s board since 2012 and held the position of vice-president immediately prior to his elevation to the presidency. Despite being the Institute’s youngest presidential appointment at 39 years of age, Mr Pordage has had a distinguished 17-year career in governance. He is currently company secretary for four listed…
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The Board of the Financial Planning Association (FPA) announced today that senior FPA executive Dante De Gori will take over as Chief Executive Officer when the current CEO Mark Rantall steps down from the role to focus on non-executive director positions at the end of February 2016.
Speaking at the opening of the FPA Professionals Congress in Brisbane, Chair of the FPA Board, Mr Neil Kendall, praised Mr Rantall for advancing the cause of professionalism in the financial planning industry…
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Wine Grape Growers Australia is delighted to announce the appointment of Jo Andrew as Independent Chair of the organisation. The decision was made to appoint an independent Chair following the retirement of long-standing Chair and South Australian representative Vic Patrick.
“We felt we needed someone with a fresh perspective and experience in leading an organisation through a period of significant challenge and change, where we have to set the framework for the industry for the next twenty…
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The National Roads & Motorists' Association has today announced the appointment of Rohan Lund as Group CEO, to commence in the role Wednesday 27 January 2016.
Mr Lund will join the NRMA after having worked as the Chief Operating Officer at Foxtel and previous roles with Seven Media including the former CEO of Yahoo7, and Strategy Director at Optus. The position became available after former Group CEO Tony Stuart resigned in May.
Mr Lund will bring a raft of strategic and commercial…
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ASSOCIATIONS Magazine is produced twice a year to inform associations and charities in Australia, New Zealand and Asia. It contains news and updates from the industry, practical advice on association management issues and interviews with industry leaders.
For information on contributions, please contact us at info@associations.net.au.For advertising enquiries please contact us at partnerships@associations.net.au.
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A significant increase in the number of bookings at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre is testament to the changing face of Perth and the keen interest from national and international event organisers.
General manager Nigel Keen said there had been a surge of activity which in turn had led to a boost in the value of events.
“Comparing our most recent figures with those from October 2014, we’ve seen a 28 per cent increase in revenue on confirmed business for January to June…
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From 20 – 23 May 2015, Malaysia hosted the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) flagship event Company Directors’ Conference, Directorship:15 in Kuala Lumpur.
The AICD annual conference ventures off-shore every second year to provide members with the opportunity to learn more about the business, political and cultural environments of the selected destinations and to provide the opportunity to delve into global issues beyond the Australian perspectives.
With the theme…
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In an Australian association first, the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) is featuring award winning actor Kevin Spacey via hologram on the first day of its three day annual Conference in Brisbane.
Cutting edge hologram technology not only pushes boundaries but adds a unique element to conferences to captivate audiences.
ASFA is wanting to share the experience and so is inviting other association professionals to witness Kevin Spacey talk on digital disruption.…
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Held from 23 – 24 February 2016 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, the 24th annual Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) will connect more than 4,000 meetings and events planners with industry suppliers for two days of networking, education and doing business.
AIME is the show where inspiration begins. Visitors and Hosted Buyers will discover new innovations, the latest event trends and suppliers plus enjoy an exciting array of social and networking events.
The…
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Following the decision by AIRAH’s incumbent CEO Phil Wilkinson, F.AIRAH, to step aside from the organisation’s leadership position, the AIRAH board has begun the search for a new chief executive officer.
AIRAH president Nathan Groenhout, M.AIRAH, says the board has engaged Arete Executive, an executive search firm, to identify a new chief executive for the prestigious 95-year-old not-for-for-profit Institute.
“AIRAH owes Phil Wilkinson a considerable…
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Online registration will be open in mid-November 2015 to ASAE’s Great Ideas in Association Management Conference, Asia Pacific to be held from 10-12 April 2016 at Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel Hong Kong.
A jam packed program is available here and includes sessions aimed at sharing a wealth of knowledge on association management and ideas on elevating the association profession in the region. There will be lots of opportunities…
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The ACN (Australian College of Nursing) has announced nursing leader, health care executive, transformation expert and lecturer Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward has been appointed to the role of CEO effective November 2015.
Carmen Morgan, President of the ACN Board, will officially welcome Adjunct Professor Ward to the position at the upcoming National…
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Christchurch, New Zealand is to host a major international conference, the Social Enterprise World Forum (SEWF) in 2017. With 1,200 delegates expected, it will be the largest international conference for the city since the February 2011 earthquake. ?kina Foundation Chief Executive Alex Hannant led a bid for the hosting rights at the SEWF in Italy in June with the backing of a number of partners.
“Hosting the SEWF in New Zealand in 2017 is an opportunity to…
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The Board of Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) today announced that CEO Suzanne Campbell will retire from her role when her term expires on 29 January 2016.
Kee Wong, Chair of the AIIA said: “The board wishes to thank Suzanne for successfully leading the Association through a transition phase over the past four years. She has been able to build a strong team who have raised our profile with state and federal government, positively impacted policy issues relevant to our…
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A reminder to maintain financial vigilence comes from the charging with fraud of a former employee at Australia's oldest charity, The Benevolent Society.
The 72 year old client account officer, who had left The Benevolent Society last year after eight years with the charity, allegedly pocketed almost $150,000 in cash payments for Meals on Wheels services over more than six years.
The Benevolent Society noticed discrepancies in its bank accounts in September 2014 and private forensic…
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CEO Sturt Eastwood, credits the entire team of Diabetes NSW with the turnaround in the organisation's fortunes over the last year and a half.
Here's what he had to say in his Linkedin article on 13 October 2015:
Great execution of basic business fundamentals has been key to a positive financial outcome for Diabetes NSW. From a forecast $1.7m loss on a revenue base of $6m to a $200k profit in just 18 months is a credit…
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Don Chambers, the former Chair of Keep Australia Beautiful National Association, sadly passed away on 11 October while on a trip to Rome, Italy. He was 78.
Don was an important part of the Keep Australia Beautiful family for more than a decade. He stepped down as national Chair in 2013, although he remained on the board of Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria.
CEO of Keep Australia Beautiful National Association Philip Robinson said Mr Chambers was one of a kind.
“All those who…
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The Perth Convention Bureau’s (PCB) 2016 Aspire Awards are now open to individuals involved with not-for-profit associations who can apply for the City of Perth, the City of Mandurah and Giving West Scholarships funded by PCB under its Aspire Program. PCB is also pleased to announce the launch of the Telethon Kids Institute Award, open to staff at the Telethon Kids Institute. The aim of the Aspire Program is to assist the individual’s personal and professional development through attendance at…
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Outgoing Governance Institute chief executive Tim Sheehy has been appointed the inaugural Director General of the UK based Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA) to address the urgent need for good governance in emerging economies.
“With a strong presence in 65 countries, ICSA — under Tim’s leadership — is uniquely placed to spearhead a global push to embed in emerging economies sound governance practices in line with those in more mature economies such as Australia,…
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Australia’s Chief Scientist, Professor Ian Chubb, whose presentation for Associations Forum’s Canberra Member Meeting on 23 October now has a waiting list, has won the the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award in the 2015 Australian Financial Review Higher Education Awards.
Prior to his appointment as Australia’s Chief Scientist in April 2011, Professor Chubb was Vice-Chancellor of the Australian National University from January 2001 to February 2011. He was also Vice-Chancellor of Flinders…
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As part of Associations Forum’s partnership with Pearson VUE to deliver a unique educational series on trends in testing and certification, we are holding a workshop - Using technology to better develop and deliver exams. Held in the Pearson VUE office's in Melbourne on Tuesday 13th October, we have a few places left to join us for a day of learning and networking. Aimed at test owners and developers, the topics covered on the day will include how you can improve exam quality…
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We’re all aware of how important it is to engage your virtual audiences. In saying this, it's easy to fall into the trap of letting the Internet get the better of you as you become lost in the wonderful world of webinars and webcasts.
So how can you run your virtual events minus the downsides? How can you eliminate the feeling of being disconnected from your members and avoid the common pitfalls?
Uncover the 7 Deadly Sins of Virtual Events in this handy guide put together by Redback…
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Peter McLean recently joined The Australian Organics Recycling Association (AORA) as their Executive officer. Mr McLean has a background in State and Local Government as well as the not-for-profit industry. Local government experience includes working at Warringah Council and State government experience includes working for National Parks and Wildlife Service before moving over to Keep Australia Beautiful where he spent 11 years.
Mr McLean arrived at Keep…
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The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) today announced the appointment of Danny Broad as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 October 2015, replacing long standing former CEO Bryan Nye OAM.
ARA Interim Chairman, Bob Herbert AM, said Mr Broad brings to the role an extensive network of knowledge, experience and influence from within the rail industry, having worked in both the rail and construction industries for more than…
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The Philippine Council for Advancement of Association Executives (PCAAE) is seeking a speaker from an Australian association at its third annual Association Executives Summit on 3-4 December 2015 in Manila.
No speakers fees or travel reimbursements are available, but accommodation, meals and ground transportation in Manila will be arranged - plus a warm Philippines welcome.
Anyone willing to share their knowledge, achievements and methodologies is invited to apply by contacting…
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On 20 August 2015, Associations Forum joined forces with Business Events Sydney to present a seminar at Dockside, Darling Harbour, Sydney on “International Engagment in the Asian Century”.
Keynote speaker, Lee White, Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Accountants ANZ, and facilitator John Peacock, General Manager, Associations Forum, were joined by panellists Christine Trimmer, Executive Director, World Obesity Federation; Dr Shirlena Soh, Director Operations, Human Genome Organisation;…
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Thanks to Sponsor ICMI Speakers Bureau, guests at Associations Forum's National Conference Dinner in July 2015 were delighted and enthralled to hear of the adventures of Mick Colliss who, amongst other achievements, formed and was vice-captain of the first Australian Sudoku team. His appearance was organised thanks to ICMI consultant Carson White who can be contacted for information on carson@icmi.com.au. More information about Mick Collis and ICMI is available…
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Sarah Davies is the new CEO at Philanthropy Australia and will commence her role on 5 October 2015.
Ms Davies was previously CEO of The Reach Foundation and, before that, was CEO of the Australian Communities Foundation. She is also involved with a number of community organisations including as a Director of Kids Under Cover and as Board member of the Centre for Social Impact.
“Sarah comes to us with significant experience in the philanthropic…
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Governance Institute of Australia has today announced the appointment of Mr Steven Burrell as its new Chief Executive Officer effective Monday 28 September 2015.
Governance Institute President Trisha Mok said the Board was delighted that Steven Burrell would be joining the organisation. Steven is the former General Manager of Communications and Public Affairs at the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and brings significant experience and expertise…
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Today, the Australian aid and development sector celebrates the generosity of Australians and their willingness to support people and communities in the face of natural disasters and conflict.
“When it comes to global humanitarian crises, Australians are generous and compassionate in helping people in need,” said the Executive Director of the Australian Council of International Development,…
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Australia’s national adults-only industry association has a new General Manager. The vacancy was caused by the election of its former CEO, Fiona Patten, to the Victorian Upper House, at the last state election.
Eros President, David Watt said "We are very happy to announce, that after an exhausting and thorough process, which included, 800 views of the job description advertisement on SEEK, 80 resumes highlighted…
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The Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB) is pleased to announce its new president, Dr Stephen Liew. Dr Liew commences his role on 16th June 2015, for a one year term.
Dr Liew is passionate about fostering unity amongst the health professions, maintaining quality dental care despite the changing model of practice ownership and believes communication and rapport with patients is…
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Entries open for Premier’s Sustainability Awards 2015
Victorians who have shown leadership in sustainability and a commitment to improving the environment are encouraged to enter the 2015 Premier's Sustainability Awards and share their work.
Sustainability Victoria CEO Stan Krpan said the awards were a great way of acknowledging and rewarding individuals and companies that have made practical and innovative efforts…
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After 15 years in the top job transforming the former professional association for chartered secretaries into a governance powerhouse, Governance Institute of Australia chief executive Mr Tim Sheehy has announced he will be stepping down later this year.
“Tim has done an outstanding job steering…
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The Australian Medical Association (AMA) says a deal between Country Doctors and the South Australian Government is a major breakthrough. The deal keeps bush-trained doctors in the bush and recognises their financial needs.
“A doctor who trains in the bush stays in the bush,” said SA president Dr Patricia Montanaro. “Now they will be able to train the doctors, the doctors will get the recognition and they will be able to be paid.”
The agreement also addresses the financial implications…
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Adelaide Oval has taken out four out of four state awards at the MEA (Meetings & Events Australia) Industry Awards Gala Dinner. The four awards are:
Best Specialty Meeting Venue
Education Award (for more than 30 employees)
Corporate Responsibility Award (for more than 30 employees)
Operations Person…
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As the centenary of the Gallipoli landings on Anzac Day approaches, New Zealand’s Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae has opened the new Returned and Services Association building.
“It’s a real pleasure to be here today for the opening of a new building for New Zealand’s oldest RSA,” said Sir Mateparae. “I appreciate how distressing it must have been to lose your previous building after the earthquakes – and so I’m pleased to be able to follow in Lord Jellicoe’s footsteps and help you…
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A memorial service has been held for Mr Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s Founding Prime Minister. He was 91.
A number of associations were present, including the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI), Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP), Singapore Indian Association (SINDA), Eurasian Association, Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (SFCCA), Chinese Development Assistance Council (CDAC) and Business China.
Tens of thousands lined the streets in torrential…
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Mercer has become the first salaried advisor firm to be accepted as a Financial Planning Association (FPA) Professional Practice. The membership comes after Mercer announced the appointment of its six financial advice officers and 40 Strategic Financial Advisors as accredited Professional Practices of the Financial Planning Association FPA.
The FPA is Australia’s peak professional body for financial planners and is designed to recognise financial planning practices of the higher calibre.…
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Peter Skillern has been named the new CEO of the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA). Mr Skillern came to the role after former CEO Jan Davis retired.
Mr Skillern is a lamb farmer and has been the TFGA’s policy and advocacy manager for the past two years. After Ms Davis decided not to seek reappointment, Mr Skillern took up the role on an interim basis. Previously, Mr Skilern worked as a banker and has held senior roles with Environment Tasmania and the state’s Liberal Party.
“Being…
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Although competitors and Councils are supporting the development, South Australia’s top independent tourism body has said there is no need for a $60 million hotel at Adelaide Airport. The hotel would form part of a $1 billion expansion of the airport, which the Federal Government approved in January.
“Outside of March, it could be argued Adelaide hotel occupancy levels wouldn’t warrant additional beds – particularly…
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After months of lobbying, legislation to repeal the “100-member rule” has been passed. According to the Governance Institute, the initiative will genuinely advance the Federal Government’s initiative to reduce red tape and save businesses thousands of dollars.
The “100-member rule” enabled just 100 shareholders to call a company general meeting, regardless of how may shareholders the company had. The company itself had to financially support the meeting, meaning large enterprises were often…
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As the number of children with arthritis rises and demand grows, Arthritis South Australia has moved to fund a dedicated paediatric rheumatology nurse. There are currently 600 – 700 children diagnosed with arthritis in South Australia and delaying treatment impacts heavily on children.
The nurse will be based at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital and will act as support for the state’s only paediatric rheumatologist. Arthritis SA CEO, Julie Black, said the need for the specialist was growing.
“It…
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With Treasury set to review key aspects of the Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) sector, the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) has formed a partnership with three other leading Associations in the sector. The aim of the partnership is to ensure the SMSF industry is well represented in the review and the MFAA’s submission to the review is well supported.
The MFAA has partnered with the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA), the Association of Financial Advisors…
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Consumers Health Forum of Australia (CHF) has announced Leanne Wells as new Chief Executive Officer. CHF Chair, Tony Lawson, said Ms Wells brought strong experience in health administration and advocacy to the role.
“The appointment of Ms Well is a great development for CHF at a time when pressures on the health system demand a continued and effective voice on behalf of health consumers,” said Mr Lawson.
Ms Wells said she was looking forward to taking up the position. “It couldn’t…
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In a bid to clarify what it actually does, SPAA has changed its name to the Self Managed Super Fund Association (SMSF Association).
The Association was quick to clarify that other than renaming and slight logo update, not a lot has changed. The basic logo design and brand style, staff and goal of SMSF Association has been retained and Specialists have a transition phase of 12 months to update to the new logo. All certificates issued from 11 February will carry the new branding, however…
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The Independent Schools Council of Australia (ISCA) has announced Dr Yvonne Luxford as Executive Director. Dr Luxford comes to the role after Mr Bill Daniels retired after more than 14 years of service.
Dr Luxford has extensive experience in senior policy and advocacy roles on the national political scene and comes to ISCA after four years as CEO of Palliative Care Australia.
Warwick Dean, ISCA Chair, said ISCA was pleased with Dr Luxford’s appointment. “Dr Luxford comes to ISCA…
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The Australian Press Council has appointed Professor David Weisbrot as Chair.
Professor Weisbrot is Emeritus Professor of Law and Honorary Professor of Medicine at the University of Sydney, as well as part-time Commissioner of the NSW Law Reform Commission, Vice-President of the Australian Academy of Law, a Member of the Strategic Advisory Board of the Garvan Institute’s Centre for Clinical Genomics and a member of the National Pro Bono Resource Centre’s Advisory Board.
Previously,…
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Bank lobby group the New Zealand Bankers Association (NZBA) has unveiled its new affiliate membership program, along with its first affiliate member, MasterCard New Zealand.
NZBA Chief Executive Kirk Hope said the association had recently expanded its membership criteria. Previously, NZBA membership had been limited to banks registered under the Reserve Bank of New Zealand Act.
“The new affiliate membership category announced today allows us to formalise relationships we have with…
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In light of the death of professional Queensland boxer Braydon Smith last Saturday night, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) has questioned why the sport is allowed to continue.
“We believe that a so-called sport where two people knock each other in the head as often as you possibly can to win a bout seems rather barbaric,” said Queensland AMA president Dr Shaun Rudd. “You’re not allowed to hit the organs beneath the belt whereas you’re allowed to hit the organ above your shoulder,…
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In a move that could see New Zealand become one of the first countries in the world to boast this kind of infrastructure, the Electricity Networks Association (ENA) has announced it is investigating the instillation of charging locations for plug-in electric vehicles along its highways. The “Renewables Highway” project could see these charging stations cover all highways across the country to encourage individuals to purchase electric cars.
Chief Executive Graeme Peters said the ENA Board…
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The Rural Doctors Association of South Australia has called for more MRI scanners in regional SA.
“There are no MRI scanners outside of the Adelaide metropolitan area,” said Rural Doctors Association President Scott Lewis.
Prime Minister Tony Abbot supported the call and said he would be “amazed” if an MRI licence was not granted to regional SA within 12 months. Health Minister Sussan Ley would need to be consulted. Mr Lewis said rural residents…
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The South Australian Government has announced an upgrade of Festival Plaza, including a redevelopment of the Adelaide Festival Centre. The renovation is to include an external upgrade and establish new entries, foyers and an interactive arts playground on the bank of the River Torrens. The South Australian Government has committed $90 million to the Adelaide Festival Centre upgrade.
The redevelopment will also include a new underground car park, a premium office building with access to…
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Six of Queensland’s top organisations have submitted a combined report to the Productivity Commission, calling for an overhaul of industrial laws.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ), the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, the Queensland Hotels Association, Motor Trades Association Queensland, Clubs Queensland and the Franchise Council of Australia want changes made to workplace reform, arguing that inflexible workplace laws are contributing to youth unemployment. The…
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Following Treasure Joe Hockey’s recent call for debate over greater flexibility in the superannuation system, the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) has spoken out. Mr Hockey asked whether first homebuyers should be able to use some of their superannuation to aid them in their first property purchase.
“We certainly need to have a conversation about super, we know we do,” said AIST CEO Tom Garcia. “But I think talking about opening up for home loans or anything else is…
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A survey by Risk Advisor has found that the majority of its readers listed the Association of Financial Advisors (AFA) as the association that best represents risk advisors’ interests. AFA chief executive Brad Fox said that although he viewed the trend as an endorsement, AFA represented other areas of financial interest as well.
“We did come from the Life Underwriters Association,” said Mr Fox. “This is part of our heritage, so what that gives us is a really deep understanding of the issues…
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An inaugural benchmarking survey by Russell Kennedy Lawyers and financial management firm, Pitcher Partners, has found there is a need for Not-For-Profit organisations to find alternate means of funding to Governmental support.
The finding comes in the wake of changed funding policies and a second Survey result that highlights many Not-For-Profits rely heavily on Government grants. The report recommends that all organisations ensure they have the means to maintain solvency in the event…
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In the wake of International Women's Day on 8 March, registrations are now open for the Women in Supply Chain Breakfast.
The event, an initiative of the Victorian Transport Association, seeks to support women in Transport and Logistics and explore how the genders can collaborate to close the gap.
Guest speakers include Gaylynne Neill, General Manager Human Resources at Linfox, Hermione Parsons, Victoria…
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Following a recommendation by the Senate Economics Legislation Committee, the bill repealing the “100-member rule” to call a general meeting has been passed in the Senate.
Officially titled the Corporations Legislation Amendment (Deregulatory and Other Measures) Bill 2014, the Governance Institute of Australia has been questioning the suitability of this Bill and advocating against it for nearly a decade. It now looks likely that the bill will be annulled. The Governance Institute has been…
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Not only is the Royal International Convention Centre (Royal ICC) Brisbane’s newest convention centre, but it also offers guests the unique, location centric menu. In an Australian first, Royal ICC is offering guests a menu filled with award-winning produce from some of the nation’s most prestigious food and wine competitions.From Australia’s best steak, lamb, wine, ice cream, cheese, diary, beer and cider, selected produce has been awarded gold, silver or bronze…
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Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) unveiled three key initiatives at AIME 2015. These initiatives are designed to draw business events to the Southeast Asia country. The three campaigns, names Malaysia Year of Festivals (MyFEST) 2015, Malaysia Like Never Before, and Malaysia Twin Deal X (MTD-X) respectively, are value-added corporate meetings and incentive promotions.
“With the introduction of these new initiatives couple with our delegation size here at AIME, we are confident…
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Designed to help event organisers produce more effective, strategic events, DoubleDutch has launched Event Performance, an app that measures delegate engagement and allows delegates to give feedback in Real Time.
"Event Performance is the culmination of a much broader vision," said Lucian Beebe, VP of Product. "All along, we were building an app that was architected from the ground up to give organisers the data they need to transform the way they run events. Most analytics reports generated…
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Having undergone a $535 million redevelopment in 2014, Adelaide Oval is now enjoying being one of the most in-demand locations in the South Australian Capital City. The venue has increased its functions spaces from six to 23 and can cater for groups ranging from two to 3000 people.
Adelaide Oval is one of Australia’s most recognisable and prestigious venues, which offers panoramic views out over the city and St Peter’s Cathedral. While the site can host many different types of…
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The Motor Trade Association (MTA) of South Australia has appointed Paul Unerkov as its new Chief Executive Officer. Mr Unerkov comes after the retirement of outgoing CEO John Chapman. Mr Chapman was CEO for eight years. MTA President Neville Gibb said Mr Chapman had taken a particular interest in the role the MTA could play in terms of its political advocacy as well as it’s training and education scheme.
“It has been a privilege to work with John,” said Mr Gibb. Mr Chapman said he was proud…
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Over 850 web designers, developers and industry leaders from across America, Canada, UK, Australia and New Zealand descended on the Michael Fowler Centre and St James Theatre in Wellington on 16th February 2015 for the annual Webstock Conference. Both venues are part of Positively Wellington Venues.
The four-day event is the result of Natasha Lampard, Mike Brown, Deb Sidelinger and Ben Lampard’s desire to create a conference that inspires and educates all those working in the digital sphere…
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With Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) 2015 set to open tomorrow, the Melbourne-based event has officially launched a new direction.
Set to completely change the way AIME is experience, no longer will the Expo be confined to just two days. Moving forward, AIME will be year-round experience as it reaches out to its community to execute its three key pillars of Networking, Business and Education. The AIME community is comprised of Exhibitors, Buyers and Visitors.
At the…
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Registrations are now open for the Navigating the Internet of Things Summit. Held on 26 March 2015 at the National Convention Centre, Canberra, the Summit will focus on Transformation and the impact of ubiquitous and intelligent connectivity on the economy, society, business and government.
The Navigating the Internet of Things Summit will explore three key themes:
Transforming the Physical Economy and Built Environment
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There are only a few days left to register for free for the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meeting Expo (AIME). Taking place on 24 – 25 march at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, AIME is the annual even of the Business Events industry.
AIME was recently named Best Exhibition at the Australian Event Awards and is geared towards those involved in organising travel, businesses events and meetings, incentives, conferences or special events. Attendance at the event is free if delegates…
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Nominations are now open for the 2015 iAwards. There are five domains and 16 categories open for nomination, plus the Hills Young Innovator of the Year for people under 25.
The iAwards aims to cultivate, communicate and celebrate excellent in Australian innovation at both the state and national level, as well as help individuals and organisers to build their capacity and confidence to shape the future of Australia.
Last year’s winner of the Hills Young Innovator of the Year, Elliot…
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AIME 2015 is expected a big influx of New Zealanders with Conventions & Incentives NZ (CINZ) and Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) leading a contingent from across the Tasman.
New CINZ Chief Executive Sue Sullivan will be updating AIME media and buyers on the latest developments around New Zealand, including the four new convention centres being planned for Christchurch, Queenstown, Wellington and Auckland. “New Zealand I moving to the next level as it works to become a major player in the international…
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The International Centre for Complex Project Management (ICCPM) and the International Project Management Association (IPMA) have signed a renewal of their alliance agreement. This document will support both organisations in their aim of strengthening the project management profession.
The alliance between ICCPM and IPMA allows the organisations to further each other’s mission and objectives through reciprocal exchanges such as publications, research and events. It also enables a spirit…
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The winners of the competition to design Canberra’s new convention centre on City Hill have been announced as Guida Moseley Brown Architects and Rome-based architect Massimilano Fuksas, but Chief Minister Andrew Barr admitted the convention centre, if it is built, might not look anything like the winning design.
Mr Bar said the distinctive, futuristic design would give only “a sense of the sort of building” that could come to fruition. The design, which beat seven other proposals, will…
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As Chris Melham leaves Natroad to take up the CEO position at the Australian Trucking Association (ATA), Warwick Ragg has been appointed CEO at Natroad.
Mr Ragg has more than 20 years experience working in member-based industry associations, including 11 years as Australian Forest Growers CEO and a senior position at the New South Wales Farmers Association.
President Geoff Crouch said the selection process found some excellent candidates. “The appointment of Warwick was the culmination…
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AIME (Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo), on 24 and 25 February, is the must attend event for those planning meetings, conferences, or special events.
With the best Knowledge Program of the Business Events Industry, Visitors are invited to apply today to avoid missing out on the best internationally renowned speakers.
To find out more and secure free entry to the event, register for a Visitor pass on the AIME website here.
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I-COM has extended the deadline for entry into some of the award categories at their Global Summit. The Data Creativity Awards and Data Venture Challenge award categories are now open until February 13, 2015.
The Summit itself will be held in San Sebastian on April 27 - 30, 2015.
The Data Creativity Awards aims to acknowledge the most creative people and companies in achieving business value and competitive advantage for their clients by leveraging…
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Ruth Webber has been appointed CEO of Down Syndrome Australia. Ms Webber has previously worked for many years in politics as a campaigner, policy advertiser, political party official and Senator for Western Australia. Since then, she has advised a number of not-for-profit organisations.
Ms Webber is currently Deputy President of the Mental Illness Fellowship of WA and has service on several boards, including Carers WA, Women’s Health Words and the ArtSound FM radio station.
Ms Webber…
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New Zealand business events trade exhibition, Conventions and Incentives NZ (CINZ) MEETINGS, will return for its 19th year in June 2015. Promising bigger business opportunities and an expanded program, CINZ Chief Executive Sue Sullivan said the growth was expected to continue as the country’s business events sector expands. Over NZ$50 million was written at CINZ MEETINGS 2014.
The event will be staged across two large pavilions at Auckland’s ASB Showgrounds on June 10 and 11, 2015. The…
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The new Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley facility has reached completion. The $6 million conference and event centre is the largest in NSW north of Sydney and features two conference rooms, 650 square metres of adjoining exhibition space, eight meeting rooms and 316 onsite accommodation rooms.
“The new Conference and Exhibition Centre will position the Hunter Valley as a leading Australian conference and events destination,” said Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley General Manager Robert Coates. “We have…
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The Biometrics Institute has initiated a feasibility study for a Biometrics Institute Trust Mark. The study will aim to create a simple model that Biometrics Institute members can sign up to and utilise to balance against the rigour and credibility of the Trust Mark.
“The feasibility study will provide a landscape scan and road map for implementing the Biometrics Institute Trust Mark,” said the Hon. Terry Aulich, Head of the Biometrics Institute’s Privacy Expert Group. “The Trust Mark will…
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The Australian Dental Industry Association (ADIA) has reinforced its reputation in the not-for-profit sector as a leader in communications management and developing online communities. By surpassing 10,000 followers on Facebook, the ADIA has become a useful communication tool for the dental community, regardless of geographical location.
ADIA CEO Troy Williams said he felt the power of Facebook and online communities were working well for the Association. “It is an effective way to connect…
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Rob Nelson has been appointed General Manager of Brisbane Marketing. Utilising the awareness Brisbane received during the G20 Leaders Summit, Mr Nelson’s new role is focused on increasing national and international sales efforts with key industry partners such as the sales team at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre and Tourism and Events Queensland.
“It’s an exciting time for Brisbane,” said Mr Nelson. “I see a real opportunity for business events to leverage and enhance Brisbane’s…
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AIME (Asia-Pacific Meetings & Incentives Expo) has revealed the line up of speakers at the 2015 AIME Knowledge program. Developed by International Conferences and Events (ICE) in partnership with Saxton, AIME Knowledge will be held on 24 and 25 February and will host an exciting line up of renowned Australian speakers for a session titled “Australia Speaks: Celebrating 50 Years with Saxton”. Australians such as Ita Buttrose, Mark Bouris, Layne Beachly, Tim Cope, Megan Quinn, and Rachel Botsman…
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Former WoolProducers Australia president Geoff Power has been elected president of Livestock SA, after Richard Halliday vacated the position to take up with the presidency at WoolProducers Australia himself.
The WoolProducers constitution states that its president must relinquish any responsibilities at a state level, however Mr Halliday will remain a board member of Livestock SA.
Mr Power has been an executive member of Livestock SA since 2005 and a member of the South Australian…
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After five years in the job, Jan Davis has decided not to renew her contact AS CEO at the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA) when it expires in April. Ms Davis was the first woman to hold the top position in TFGA.
TFGA chairman Wayne Johnson said Ms Davis had done an excellent job raising the organisation’s profile and finding her replacement would be difficult.
“Jan has worked at this job for seven days a week for the nearly five years she’s been here and I think…
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HR ties have been strengthened between Australia, New Zealand and Canada with a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding being signed between HR institutes in the three countries. For the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI), the Human Resources Institute of New Zealand (HRINZ) and the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) in Canada, the signing of the agreement means taking the first step toward a closer working relationship between the three organisations and strengthening the…
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Richard Petty has been elected to the Board of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). Professor Petty’s election took place during the International Federation of Accountants Council meeting in Rome, November 2014.
Previously, Professor Petty was Chairman and President of CPA Australia as well as having served on other boards. In his capacity as board member of IFAC, Professor Petty will act as a representative of the accounting academic community.
Based in Hong Kong,…
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Two major international conferences will be going to Christchurch in 2017 and 2018. The Christchurch and Canterbury Convention Bureau partnered with Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) and placed the winning bids for the for the 2017 International Conference on Computers in Education and the 2018 Asia-Oceania Conference of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.
These conferences will bring a combined 1200 delegates and over NZ$3 million to the economy.
Christchurch and Canterbury Convention…
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The Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) has secured the XIII World Congress of Chinese Medicine. The three day conference will see more than 700 Chinese medicine practitioners and academics arrive in Auckland in 2016.
The Congress is the leading annual event for Chinese medicine health professionals in the Asia Pacific region and will generate 1,700 visitor nights and roughly NZ$760,000 in GDP. ACB made the winning bid in conjunction with the XIII World Congress of Chinese Medicine Steering…
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Nerida Wallace has been appointed CEO of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). Ms Wallace replaced former CEO Michael Brett Young who had held the role for 8 years and stayed to assist with the change.
Ms Wallace brought a range and breadth of experiences across the legal profession, said LIV President Geoff Bowyer. “Ms Wallace has a wealth of experience providing legal and strategic advice across the legal profession. She has worked with private law forms, government, courts and dispute…
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Matt Carroll has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Yachting Australia. Mr Carroll takes over the role after Phil Jones stepped down after 17 years. Yachting Australia President Mall Allen said Mr Carroll’s range of experiences made him an excellent candidate for the position of CEO.
“Matt’s background in sports administration across a range of organisations provides Yachting Australia with strategic development, leadership, engagement with stakeholders, understanding of high performance…
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International Association of Conference Centres (IACC) has unveiled a new look IACC certified Venue Directory. The new design and features are intended to enable a powerful new window for IACC members and meeting planners, especially those on the go.
Optimised for desktop, smartphone and tablet devices, the new directory contains valuable information to help meeting planners identify their next IACC certified conference venue. It is the only global directory of IACC Certified Conference…
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From a large number of candidates from across the globe, GymSports NZ has appointed Tony Compier to the position of Chief Executive. Mr Compier brings a wealth of experience in management, operations and commercial expertise to the role.
Specialising in organisational development, Mr Compier was previously CEO of Triathlon Queensland where he strove to achieve ‘best-practice’ standards’ to deliver relevant and effective programs throughout Queensland.
Chairman of GymSports New Zealand,…
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