MEMBERS of Australia’s peak IT manufacturing organisation AEEMA have voted to formalise a plan to merge with the nation’s largest and most powerful industry lobby, the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group).
A resolution at the Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association (AEEMA) annual general meeting was passed by “an overwhelming majority” of members to join with Ai Group. The motion was first put by the AEEMA board in June.
“This is an historic chapter in AEEMA’s long and proud history, with the consolidated association positioned to address the needs and challenges of our members both today and in the future,” said AEEMA Chief Executive, Angus Robinson.
He said the consolidation would provide enhanced membership packages and more powerful advocacy through “the strength of the Ai Group branding and high standing with governments throughout Australia.”
Ai Group’s Chief Executive, Heather Ridout, welcomed the decision, and said AEEMA would quickly see benefits from the merge beyond a more influential voice.
“From 1 January 2008, AEEMA members will gain access to Ai Group’s comprehensive business services and specialised technical programs, such as training, advice and assistance on human resources, workplace relations, procurement, energy and environment services, economic analysis, export development, occupational health and safety and legal issues,” Mrs Ridout said.
Bringing the organisations together will provide a boost to AEEMA’s advocacy effort on core policy issues such as delivering fast, reliable broadband, addressing the challenges of a global market, supporting innovation across the whole value chain, and developing cleaner, greener and smarter manufacturing Mrs Ridout said.
“Perhaps one of the most important opportunities for AEEMA members is Ai Group’s environmental and energy support services,” she said.
“Ai Group is already an important player across a whole range of environmental issues, including climate change and carbon trading. AEEMA’s long-standing position on a wide range of ‘cleaner, greener and smarter’ manufacturing issues and its close linkages with key government agencies will fit neatly with Ai Group’s objectives.
