Industry associations shape national policy—their evidence is their strongest asset
Industry associations are essential to Australia’s economic and policy architecture. They represent the collective interests of entire sectors—ranging from mining and manufacturing to education, healthcare, agriculture and beyond. Whether it's the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), the Australian Retailers Association or the Australian Airports Association these associations work at the highest levels of government and industry to influence decisions that affect both the future of the sector, and the overall Australian economy.
Unlike member-based associations that focus on individual benefits such as training, networking, or professional recognition, industry associations operate at a systems level. Their focus is sector-wide reform: ensuring the industries they represent remain competitive, sustainable, and supported by sound public policy.
Why this matters now: Australia’s election year
Australia’s federal election this month marks a key inflection point for industry associations. The period following an election brings new opportunities—and new risks. Cabinets are reshuffled, departmental priorities shift, and government agendas are reset.
This is the moment when associations must move quickly to engage new ministers, influence budget planning, and ensure their sector remains front of mind. But the competition for attention is fierce. Every industry is advocating. Every issue is urgent.
The organisations that secure access and shape outcomes will be those that arrive prepared—with current, credible insights that reflect the real experiences of businesses on the ground.
What sets them apart: advocacy over individual services
The core function of an industry association is advocacy. Their mandate is to engage with government, regulators, and policymakers to secure favourable outcomes for their sector. While many also deliver industry insights or coordinate initiatives like training standards or safety codes, these are typically in service of broader strategic goals—not customer-style member benefits.
Key areas of focus often include:
· Environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks
· Export market access and international competitiveness
· Infrastructure and energy policy
· Investment and innovation funding
· Regulation and red tape reduction
· Workforce development and skilled migration
These are complex, high-stakes areas that require a coordinated and credible voice—one grounded in data, not just anecdote.
The national and global influence of Australian industry bodies
Australia’s industry associations don’t just operate behind the scenes—they actively shape national policy agendas. Their submissions are cited in government inquiries. Their spokespeople are regularly quoted in the media. They sit on strategic advisory panels and contribute to intergovernmental negotiations.
At the international level, they advocate for Australia’s interests in trade agreements, collaborate on global standards, and represent national industries on the world stage. For example, Universities Australia engages regularly with international education bodies to maintain Australia’s status as a global education destination. The National Farmers' Federation works to safeguard trade relationships and advocate for sustainable agriculture. The Business Council of Australia leads conversations on economic competitiveness and long-term growth.
Their influence is substantial—but it is only as strong as the evidence they bring to the table.
Why insight is the foundation of credible advocacy
In a fast-changing economic and policy environment, industry associations must stay ahead of emerging trends, shifting business conditions, and evolving workforce needs. And they need to do it based on evidence—not assumptions.
That’s where high-quality research comes in.
At Survey Matters, we partner with national and industry bodies to deliver custom research that equips them to:
· Assess the impact of regulation and red tape
· Benchmark performance and trends across businesses
· Identify and quantify industry challenges
· Understand workforce dynamics, skills gaps, and migration needs
These insights are not only useful—they are often transformative. In one case, ACAPMA, the Australasian Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association, integrated findings from research conducted by Survey Matters to support its advocacy for real-time fuel pricing laws, allowing the association to push back against claims that fuel pricing lacked transparency and reducing the need for further regulation.
In another, the REINSW monthly vacancy rate reports compiled by Survey Matters have become a crucial tool in discussions with government bodies, including Fair Trading and the Rental Commissioner, where REINSW presents clear data-driven arguments against restrictive tenancy laws.
Building readiness through evidence
When industry associations are backed by strong evidence, their influence grows. They speak with confidence, advocate with credibility, and shape policy that delivers real impact.
That’s why research data must be viewed not as a reporting function, but as a strategic asset. At Survey Matters, we help industry associations design and deliver research programs that illuminate challenges, clarify priorities, and support informed advocacy.
In a time of political change, global volatility, and shifting national priorities, associations need to lead with data. The stakes are high—and the organisations that invest in evidence now will be best placed to deliver results for their sectors in the years ahead.