The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) is now an official member of The Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA).
ABEA’s successful membership bid is a pivotal step in amplifying the voices of small businesses within the business events sector. The sector contributes an estimated $36 billion annually to the Australian economy.
The partnership will see COSBOA extend its advocacy to the business events sector. This will empower hundreds of small-business owners, operators and their employees, bolstering their influence to advocate for essential policy changes.
Together, COSBOA and ABEA will lobby for policy changes on taxes, subsidies, grants, workforce development, and fair work practices. They will work together to highlight the significant impact of the business events industry on the country to the government.
Luke Achterstraat, CEO of COSBOA, expressed enthusiasm for the development. “Welcoming ABEA into the COSBOA network is another step forward in our mission to support small businesses. The business events sector includes dynamic suppliers, organisers and venues that manage and deliver conferences, exhibitions, and meetings each year, which are vital to our economy and community. By working together, we can better address the unique challenges faced by small businesses in this sector, such as reducing administrative burdens and industrial relations amendments.
“The connecting of our organisations will enable us to present a united front to government and policymakers, ensuring that the needs of small businesses in this sector, as well as others, are heard and addressed,” added Achterstraat.
“Having a voice within the COSBOA influence will provide access to critical advocacy and resources,” said Melissa Brown, CEO of ABEA. “From workforce development and cyber security through to addressing red tape and industrial relations issues.”
“Small businesses underpin our sector, provide thousands of jobs, and bring innovative thinking to our industry.”
