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News from September 2024

Open letter from peak accounting bodies urges Prime Minister to stop “unfair” rules for taxation and BAS agents

Membership bodies representing tax and BAS agents have published an open letter to the Government ahead of a roundtable with the Assistant Treasurer’s office where the group will continue to strongly advocate for amendments to the Tax Agent Services (Code of Professional Conduct) Determination. The letter describes the Government’s new rules as “overreach” and points to legal…

The Science Teachers’ Association of Victoria welcomes interim Executive Director Mr Shane Lucas

The Science Teachers’ Association of Victoria (STAV) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Shane Lucas as its interim Executive Director, following the resignation of former Executive Director, Ms Joanne Phillips. It is with mixed emotions that we announce the resignation of Joanne, who has decided to pursue new opportunities; and whilst we will miss her leadership and vision, we are very excited to see where her career will take her next. Throughout her tenure with STAV, Joanne…

APPA is 50!

The Australian Primary Principals Association turns 50 in 2024! APPA, a unique and outstanding association of primary school leaders, was established in 1974 by visionary educators. APPA is proud to celebrate 50 years of Government, Catholic and Independent primary school leaders working collaboratively in the best interests of Australian primary education. APPA’s credibility is strong and has been built over the past 50 years on its professional wisdom and experience,…

Changes to professional development requirements

Effective from 16 August 2024 the professional development (PD) requirements for teachers maintaining Proficient, Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher accreditation have been changed. Who the changes affect All NSW teachers who are maintaining their accreditation at Proficient Teacher, Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher (HALT) are affected by this change.

Tim Westcott Elected President of Australian Drilling Industry Association

Tim Westcott was elected as the new President of the Australian Drilling Industry Association (ADIA). Owner of TDW Consultants (WA), for many years Westcott has been an influential figure in the drilling industry, outstanding for his leadership and commitment to raising industry standards. Since November 21, 2013, Westcott has been involved with ADIA, in which he was elected as a Director. He contributed and gave strategic views such that he was appointed Board Vice President on December…

Partner News: Lasercraft Australia’s Environmental Initiative: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Lasercraft Australia, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities, is making a significant impact through its environmental initiatives. Since 1987, the organisation has provided valuable employment opportunities and skill development on the Central Coast, specialising in corporate awards and community access programs. A key element of Lasercraft’s sustainability efforts…

Fair or Oppressive? Federal Court Rules on Melbourne Football Club Board Conduct and Bylaws

By Raniya Dass While the case of Lawrence v Melbourne Football Club Ltd [2024] FCA 945 was dismissed, it serves as a reminder to associations of the importance of maintaining transparency and fairness in their governance processes. Associations need to carefully consider how their rules and procedures might impact members' rights and the overall integrity of their governance processes. This case highlights that…

New Laws - Fair Work Commission

New workplace laws that start from 26 August 2024 may affect you. Find out more about the new laws for regulated workers and businesses, the right to disconnect, and casuals. These changes are part of the Fair Work Legislation (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Act 2024 amendments.

ARA CEO Paul Zahra resigns to make way for new leadership under amalgamated entity

The CEO of Australian Retailers Association (ARA) Paul Zahra today announced his resignation, ending his near five year tenure at the end of 2024 as the association transitions to an amalgamated entity with the National Retail Association (NRA). Mr Zahra said the proposed amalgamation provides a natural exit point, allowing a successor to drive the new entity into the future.

Australia's precision fermentation future: Cellular Agriculture Australia

Not-for-profit organisation, Cellular Agriculture Australia (CAA), has released an industry-first report that shows Australia has the potential to become a global leader in the production of precision-fermented ingredients.  The white paper provides an in-depth analysis of Australia’s emerging precision fermentation sector, a process that harnesses the power of microorganisms to produce specific functional ingredients…

OAIC to update privacy guidance for NFPs​​​​​​​

The OAIC is updating its guidance for charities and other not-for-profits on protecting privacy. The updated guidance will include discussion of the sector’s obligations under the Privacy Act when engaging third-party providers, which is particularly relevant in the wake of the Pareto data breach. Areas covered include: being informed about how information will be collected, handled and stored conducting periodic reviews of arrangements ensuring the third party…

A response to Lana Collaris: Why the Vic Bar acknowledges traditional owners

The Victorian Bar has long prided itself on its strong relationships with the Indigenous members of our community, whom we serve and work with through many professional associations or who are members of our Bar. The Victorian Bar is proud to have been the first Bar in Australia to have a Reconciliation Action Plan. Initiated more than 10 years ago, it guides us in our efforts to reconcile with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, to provide…

James Goodwin appointed CEO of Accommodation Australia

Accommodation Australia (AA) has a new CEO, with respected former boss of the Australian Airports Association, James Goodwin, to head the peak accommodation body from 1 September 2024. Mr Goodwin’s appointment follows an extensive recruitment process following the retirement of former CEO Michael Johnson in June. He will be the second head of AA – which formed in July 2023 following the merger of Tourism Accommodation Australia and the Accommodation Association of Australia. AA chairman…

Scott Veenker to lead Committee for Melbourne

  Following the merger of two advocacy bodies, Scott Veenker will take the reins as Chief Executive of the Committee for Melbourne. The Melbourne Chamber of Commerce and Committee for Melbourne recently joined to become the City’s leading advocacy body.…

New President at Crochet Guild Australia - Naomi McManus

For the past 18 years, crochet has been an integral part of my life, allowing me to create intricate pieces of handmade art and connect with a passionate community. Completing my teacher training has enabled me to pass on my knowledge and skills effectively. As President of Crochet Guild Australia, I am dedicated to fostering the growth and development of our guild, building on my previous roles as Vice President, Treasurer, and Membership Officer. Last year, I co-founded a new branch…

Robert Lucas steps down as CEO of AWCI

After 46 years of work in the workforce, and the last 30 in Industry Associations, Robert Lucas announced that the time has come for him to retire from full-time employment. His last day with the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries Australia was Friday, September 20th. He says that along the way, there were highs and lows; however, he has always loved his work and had the pleasure of working with some wonderful, inspirational people. He claims that there are too many people to name…

Franchise Council of Australia appoints new CEO and leadership team

The Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) has announced significant leadership changes with Directors Richard Thame and Amber Manning taking on the roles of Chair and Deputy Chair respectively. This fresh leadership team, along with the appointment of Jay Westbury as the new CEO effective 9 September, marks a new chapter for the FCA as it continues to support and advocate for the franchising industry. Richard Thame brings over 20 years of…

Association of Reflexologists celebrates 40 years

Congratulations to the Association of Reflexologists on their 40th anniversary! In July, they hosted a conference to commemorate the occasion at the International Students House in London. Peter Lund Frandsen & Dorthe Krosgaard from Touchpoint Denmark spoke on Frontier Biology and Dr Naveed Akhtar delivered a talk on Integrative Health. The mission at AoR is to provide a platform for networking, sharing knowledge and best practices, and fostering ongoing professional development. They…

Australian Compliance Institute appoints new CEO

The Australian Compliance Institute (ACI) has appointed a new CEO, Ms Joanne Phillips. Ms Phillips will commence her role on 30 September 2024.A seasoned professional association executive, she has more than 18 years’ experience leading teams in small and large associations, spanning health, law, education, sport, and industry. Ms Philips is passionate about creating member experiences that deliver value, building enduring relationships, and generating revenue.…

USA associations combat major tax changes

American Society of Association Executives has sounded the alarm that associations and other nonprofit organizations are facing the biggest legislative threat in more than 50 years. With sweeping tax breaks established in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire in 2025, congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle in the USA Congress have called for next year’s tax package to be fully funded at a cost of $3-4 trillion. Influential legislators and policy think tanks have…

PIAA says proposed bill could threaten livelihood of breeders

The Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) has expressed deep concerns over a proposed NSW Government Bill aimed at regulating animal breeding. The PIAA claims the current Bill, introduced by Labor and set to be debated in Parliament next week, could decimate the country’s leading breeders by capping the number of breeding females to 20 per establishment – a limit they argue will have severe consequences for both breeders and prospective pet owners. Anthony…

Payday super is coming: What is it?

If you're not paying super at the same time as wages, there’s something on the horizon for you to start planning for: payday super. Planned to start July 1, 2026, payday super is a change to how super guarantee (SG) payments are made. No matter your super payments situation, there are important details all businesses should consider now. Announced…

Women in Construction have a new leader

At a time when the role of women in construction has never been more important, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Cathryn Greville as its new CEO. Cathryn is a qualified lawyer and company director, recognised in the field of equity, diversity and inclusion both in Australia and overseas. She has approaching 20 years’ experience working across environmental, social and governance areas and regulatory arenas, including…

REIA announces new CEO

The Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) has appointed Scott Rollason as its new CEO, commencing on November 14. REIA President Leanne Pilkington highlighted Rollason's diverse expertise: "Scott is a qualified lawyer with a strong background in organisational strategy, governance, insurance, financial management, government relations, policy, and lobbying.” With experience in member associations…

Partner News: Member Jungle's Digital Member Cards: Now in Apple and Google Wallet

We're excited to announce the seamless integration of Member Jungle's digital member cards with Apple and Google Wallet. Members can now effortlessly see their member information on their smartphones and it’s accessible offline. Digital cards can be instantly distributed to members and automatically updated with any changes, saving time and resources for your association. That means your association can finally say goodbye to the hassle…

Partner News: How the Institute of Public Accountants’ Transformed Member Engagement

The Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) sought to create a more engaged and connected membership base. To achieve this, they partnered with our friends at Higher Logic, and the results have been transformative. IPA launched the “My Public Accountant” online community, offering members a dynamic space for interaction, resource sharing, and professional growth. This platform has become the go-to…

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