ASCA charts new course with appointment of first full-time CEO

23 Oct 2017 10:26 AM | Deleted user

The Australian Smart Communities Association (ASCA) today announced the appointment of its first full-time CEO. Laurie Patton takes on this role following an extensive career in media, IT and event management. For the past three years he has been CEO / Executive Director of Internet Australia, the NFP peak body representing the interests of Internet users.

Welcoming Mr Patton, ASCA Vice President Brook Dixon (and Chair of the ASCA Nominations Committee) said the ASCA board was keen to see the organisation increase its contribution to the promotion of smart community concepts across Australia and was committed to working with a wide range of stakeholders.

“Australia is well placed to be one of the leaders in emerging global moves to make our communities more liveable, more sustainable and more technologically empowered. We recognise the importance of putting people first – viewing things from a local perspective while also drawing on international experience,” Mr Dixon said.

“Our board and members hold significant roles in organisations committed to creating smart communities. We are keen to lead the conversation about how best to develop all our communities for the benefit of every Australian.

“Smart community interest and action is accelerating across Australia, with great leadership from the Australian Government, through the Prime Minister and Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation, Angus Taylor MP,” Mr Dixon said.

“ASCA has been working closely with the Australian Government to drive positive smart community outcomes, and we look forward to building this partnership into the future.”

Mr Patton’s immediate priority will be to engage broadly with communities, governments and businesses to ensure ASCA fulfils a central role in stimulating debate and actions designed to help our communities take full advantage of the many exciting opportunities opening up in the 21st Century.

“There’s never been a more important time for ASCA to make a contribution to the development of smart communities throughout Australia,” Mr Patton said.

“We are fast entering a digitally-enabled world full of new avenues for improving people’s lives by enhancing the places where they live and work.

“While many communities are now poised and ready to proceed, and some already on the journey, there’s clearly a need for a coordinated effort across the country that sees us collaborating and sharing our experiences as we experiment and learn. I’m looking forward to working with the ASCA board and members to ensure we make a major contribution to that effort,” Mr Patton said.

This media release was sourced from the Australian Smart Communities Association.

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

                    
        


Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software