Sector News

State Huntington's Associations agree to merge

Members who attended recent AGMs of the five Huntington’s State Associations – SA&NT, WA, Tasmania, NSW/ACT and Queensland – have agreed to merge into a new, single entity, Huntington’s Australia (HA). The merger will bring together five associations with a shared vision of enabling those impacted by Huntington’s disease to live their best lives. It is a momentous occasion - a culmination…

AFPA congratulates Mark Rogers on appointment as CEO of New Forests

AFPA congratulates Mark Rogers on appointment as Chief Executive Officer of New Forests, pays tribute to outgoing David Brand. The Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) congratulates Board Director and forest industries leader, Mark Rogers on his appointment as Chief Executive Officer of New Forests – taking on the role from David Brand who will become New Forests Chair following…

AMA: Addressing the elective surgery backlog

New analysis performed by the Australian Medical Association reveals that the number of people waiting for elective surgery has ballooned across Australia and is expected to reach more than 500,000 by 30 June this year if no action is taken by governments. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, patients were waiting longer than the clinically recommended time for elective surgery in public hospitals, which indicates there was already unmet need for surgical care (also referred…

Partner News: Fringe Benefits Tax Update

Fringe Benefits Tax Update Important FBT Considerations As we farewell the Christmas festivities, and welcome in the New Year, it is timely reminder to consider the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) consequences on meal entertainment so there are no surprises when your Annual FBT return is prepared. We have seen a greater level of social activity following the pandemic,…

New label to promote authentic Margaret River produce

A new brand aimed at promoting authentic, Margaret River region-sourced and produced goods has been launched by the Margaret River Producers Association, with early adopters saying they are thrilled to bear the prestigious label. The Margaret River Produce stamp may only be used by parties authorised by…

New RACGP President to support General Practice

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has announced its new President-Elect Dr Nicole Higgins. Dr Higgins will officially take on the role at the conclusion of the RACGP’s 2022 Annual General Meeting on Thursday 24th November, when current President Adj. Professor Karen Price’s two-year term comes to an end. Dr Higgins has worked across the depth and breadth of general practice in urban and rural Australia, and owns a teaching practice in Mackay, regional…

New CEO announced for AAA

The Australian Airports Association (AAA) has appointed James Goodwin as its new Chief Executive Officer. AAA National Chairman Tom Ganley said Mr Goodwin would bring deep experience in public policy, advocacy and stakeholder engagement to the role. Mr Goodwin has been Chief Executive of the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) since 2015. “We are delighted to welcome James to the AAA following strong interest in the role,” Mr Ganley said. “He will bring a strong understanding…

Association business continuity during COVID-19

Kathy Nguyen, Manager - Client Services Associations Forum The spread of the novel coronavirus has already impacted all associations around Australia. During these times of rapid change, it is important to be prepared to respond in the best interest for your staff, volunteers and community. 1. Communicating with staff As we are constantly being updated on the situation regarding COVID-19, communicating with your staff and prioritising health…

ASIC releases new AGM guidelines

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has released new guidelines for meeting upcoming AGM and financial reporting requirements due to the impacts of COVID-19. For associations that are companies limited by guarantee with December year end, ASIC has confirmed that it: Will take no action if the AGMs are postponed for two months; that is, until the end of July Supports the holding of AGMs using appropriate technology. ASIC does…

Partner News: AIME Hosted Buyer Registrations Close 15 November!

The AIME 2020 Hosted Buyer registrations close on 15 November – don’t miss out! This is your last opportunity to be part of a truly unique buyer program that has been distinctly design with you in mind. Register today. Benefit from a curated pre-scheduled appointments diary, access to exclusive…

Hepatitis NSW CEO retires

Hepatitis NSW CEO Stuart Loveday has announced his retirement in this month's edition of Hepatitis NSW's e-newsletter. "It is with sadness, but with a great deal of hope and optimism, that I say farewell and thank you, to the communities of people in NSW affected by hepatitis C and hepatitis B, and to the very many friends and colleagues with whom I have worked for the past 25 years," said Mr Loveday. "When I joined the Hepatitis C Council of NSW in October 1994, as Executive Officer,…