Speech Pathology Australia Annual Report 2020

2020 Record membership

ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP PROFILE AS AT THE END OF THE CALENDAR YEAR 11, 174 strong

In 2020, despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), Speech Pathology Australia saw its membership again grow to a new record level. Reflecting this new membership record was the Association's continuing efforts as the voice of the speech pathology profession in Australia. Advocating, as always, on behalf of its members and those Australians who have a communication or swallowing disability. Membership At the close of 2020, the Association had again seen its membership reach a new record level: 11,174. This reflects an increase of 13.3 per cent on 2019. Diversity also increased with 60 members identifying as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person and male membership of the Association at the end of 2020 standing at 355 or 3.17 per cent of the overall membership.

Alumnus

19

Certified Practising

9538

Life Member Non-Certified Non-Practising

23

203

93 51

10,000 th member welcomed In January 2020, Speech Pathology Australia welcomed its 10,000 th member, Nicole Hansen. A chance conversation with a neighbour about the long wait to see a speech pathologist sparked Nicole to act and explore becoming a speech pathologist. After graduating with her degree in December 2019, Nicole joined the Speech Pathology Australia, becoming its 10,000 th member.

Re-entry

Student (paid)

844 403

Student (free first year)

Total

11,174

In the lead-up to the membership renewals in July 2020, the Association conducted a survey across its membership. While, overall, the response was heartening, it was clear that some members were doing it tough during the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, the Association undertook a number of initiatives as part of the renewal period in 2020, including: freezing 2020/21 membership fees, a $100 online professional development voucher for those who renewed by 1 July, the waiving of the $15 administrative fee for those who elected to pay by direct debit, and the extension for Certified Practising members of PSR requirements for 12 months.

Membership renewal fees frozen

5

2020 ANNUAL REPORT Speech Pathology Australia