As one of the world’s leading scientists in the field of atmospheric science and climatology, Associate Professor Janette Lindsay from the Australian National University spoke to delegates about the need for urgent action on climate change. Using a range of projections and modelling, she demonstrated the dire consequences of inaction.

Despite these predictions, Lindsay implored delegates not to “feel overwhelmed and put climate change in the too hard basket”. Instead she suggested delegates use their positions as association executives to affect change within their industries. She encouraged executives to start with their own operations and show leadership on the issue by choosing climate friendly service providers and ensuring that events are carbon neutral.

Federal Minister for Finance and Deregulation the Hon. Lindsay Tanner told delegates he believed their work complemented the government’s work and he applauded the mission driven nature of those working in the sector.

The Minister said he understood that the sector was not homogenous, but was keen to streamline reporting procedures and cut red tape. The removal of the Gag Clause, the government’s National Compact, tax concessions for philanthropy, and other regulatory reforms were also discussed by the Minister, explaining that regulatory reform did not always equate to less regulation. Minister Tanner then presented Christine Brill and Richard Gerner with their certificates of Certified Association Executive accreditation and spent time with delegates, answering questions.

Professor Mark Lyons from the Centre for Social Impact outlined three issues he believed were important for association executives: the changing public expectations of business and professionals, with more emphasis on corporate social responsibility; climate change and the need to act now; and societal governance, where he said that the government is increasingly becoming the facilitator and the enabler rather than the boss. He said it was important for association executives to give reasons for members and the public to place trust in them. Lyons said this trust needed to be based on values, ethics and going beyond the call. He encouraged delegates to set the bar higher and deliver more through accreditation and training.

Marilyn Webster from Good Shepherd Youth and Family Services spoke about the National Compact, policy and program development including issues of not-for-profit legal status, tax status, membership, skilling and fundraising.

Each table of delegates were given a keyboard, linked to a big screen at the front of the room, which they used to respond verbally and in writing to the various questions raised by the symposium’s facilitator Think Coach Max Dumais. This brainstorming proved very popular and some excellent ideas came out of this process.