Associations Forum has published the results of the 2025 Association Events Survey and thanked the 154 associations that contributed to this year’s study. The survey explores key aspects of association events, including event formats, attendance trends, planning horizons and the factors influencing where events are delivered.

Conferences remain central as planning horizons extend

The survey confirms that conferences remain the most important event format for associations, with 76 % of respondents holding an annual conference. Long-term planning is becoming increasingly critical, as 66 % of associations plan their major conference more than 12 months in advance, highlighting the need to secure venues and key dates early.

Growing attendance and increased use of AI

Attendance trends are positive, with 36 % of respondents reporting an increase of more than five per cent in attendee numbers compared to the previous year. The survey also shows a significant rise in the use of artificial intelligence, with 76 % of associations now using AI for activities such as content creation, reporting, event planning and marketing communications.

The full Association Events Survey 2025 report is available free of charge to Associations Forum members. Non-profit organisations that are not members can purchase the report for AUD 200 by contacting Associations Forum at info@associations.net.au.