AuSAE - Associations launches retirement savings research hub

Associations launches retirement savings research hub

18 Jul 2017 1:37 PM | Deleted user

The SMSF Association will establish a 'policy think tank' to provide thought leadership for the retirement savings market on financial and non-financial issues.

The Global Centre of Excellence for Retirement Savings will be based in Adelaide and will cover a range of topics including the design of retirement incomes policies, behavioural economics and investment markets, aged care and mental capacity.

SMSFA chief executive John Maroney said the centre will focus on all social, economic and community issues that have an influence on a person's ability to enjoy a dignified and secure retirement.

"The centre will also act as a clearing house for existing literature and research into retirement issues, as well as commission and conduct relevant research into these areas via teams of experienced researchers, PhD students, industry participants and other interested parties," Maroney said.

The centre will serve to increase awareness of key issues related to retirement design and operation in Australia and other countries, driving improved efficiency and effectiveness of the Australian superannuation system and the public policy surrounding it, with a particular focus on the SMSF sector.

"Another key priority will be to advance the technological architecture of the SMSF sector by providing an industry hub to develop data standards for SMSFs and new applications of information technology to SMSF administration. This will pull together SMSF businesses, researchers, regulators and other industry participants to advance SMSF information technology," Maroney said.

All research provided by the centre will be structured to provide genuine practical value and will be sourced from universities, financial institutions, SMSF service providers and other associations.

The SMSFA has also engaged the University of Adelaide, Monash University, University of Western Australia, Curtin University, University of New South Wales and Macquarie University to provide input via an academic advisory group.

Adjunct professor at Monash University Dr Phillip Dolan will assist in establishing the group. Dolan is a former dean of the UWA Business School and former head of the Macquarie University Applied Finance Centre and Actuarial Program. He is also a former her of investment research at Macquarie Bank.

"Phillip has an enviable reputation is this field and we are honoured he has decided to accept this role," Maroney said.

The SMSFA expects the centre to be open by the end of the year.

This article was originally sourced from the Financial Standard.

Strengthening Trans-Tasman Connections: AuSAE and Tourism New Zealand Business Events Renew Partnership

Association professionals across Australia and New Zealand have even more reason to explore trans-Tasman opportunities. AuSAE is proud to announce the renewal of its longstanding partnership with Tourism New Zealand Business Events, celebrating 11 years of collaboration.

For over a decade, this partnership has strengthened connections between the two countries, helping associations expand networks, share knowledge, and deliver world-class events.

Toni Brearley, CAE, Chief Executive Officer at AuSAE, said:

“Our partnership with Tourism New Zealand Business Events has opened doors for association leaders to plan unforgettable events and connect with peers across the Tasman. Together, we’ve created opportunities, shared knowledge, and elevated the experiences of our members and their delegates. This partnership reinforces our commitment to fostering strong trans-Tasman collaborations, helping associations innovate, grow, and deliver outstanding value to their members.”

Helen Bambry, Business Events Manager at Tourism New Zealand, added:

“Partnering with AuSAE means we can directly support association professionals in bringing their next international business event to New Zealand – offering assistance, funding, and support to ensure exceptional experiences for both organisers and delegates.”

Watch the Tourism New Zealand Business Events video

What this partnership means for you

For Australian associations:

Receive expert guidance and support to bring conferences or member events to New Zealand.
Access funding assistance through Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
Expand your network and build partnerships with New Zealand peers and industry leaders.
Deliver international experiences for members and delegates just across the Tasman.

For New Zealand associations:

Strengthen professional connections with Australian association leaders through AuSAE’s network.
Share expertise and collaborate on professional development, governance, and member engagement initiatives, and more.
Gain visibility within the broader association community in Australia and New Zealand.
Access opportunities to host international association events and delegates in New Zealand, boosting local engagement and knowledge exchange.

About AuSAE:

The home for association professionals, the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is the leading - and only not-for-profit, member-based - organisation supporting association professionals in Australia and New Zealand. For 70 years, AuSAE has been a trusted partner for those working in associations, providing professional development, support, and networking to help association leaders achieve organisational goals, advance their careers, and strengthen the wider sector.

About Tourism New Zealand Business Events:

Tourism New Zealand Business Events provides expert guidance, funding, and support to attract conferences, incentives and corporate events to New Zealand.

--- ends ---

For more information about AuSAE, please contact Toni Brearley, CAE:
Toni Brearley, CAE
Chief Executive Officer, AuSAE
E: toni@ausae.org.au
T: + 61 458 000 155

To apply for funding and support to host a conference in New Zealand contact Helen Bambry:
Helen Bambry
Business Events Manager, Tourism New Zealand
E: Helen.Bambry@tnz.govt.nz
T: +61 415 933 325

The Australasian Society of Association Executives

Contact us:

Email: info@ausae.org.au
Phone: 1300 764 576 (within Australia)
Phone: +61 7 3268 7955 (outside Australia)
Address: Unit 6, 26 Navigator Place, Hendra QLD 4011, Australia