What do Qantas, Netball Australia, AFL, NRL and ARU have in common

What do Qantas CEO Alan Joyce, Netball Australia CEO Marne Fechner, Australian Football League CEO Gillon McLachlan, NRL CEO Todd Greenberg, and ARU CEO Raelene Castle all have in common?

They have all taken a pay cut in the wake of COVID-19. These organisations have had a significant drop in business or have been postponed until further notice, which some might say justifies the reduction in salaries and other costs these businesses would normally incur.

So, what does an industry association, such as the Australasian Furnishing Association do in these challenging times?

‘We’ve taken the decision of also taking a cut in our salaries,’ says AFA CEO Patrizia Torelli. ‘Membership revenue has pretty much stalled because many of our member businesses have been financially impacted, but the need for our services has doubled as a result of the crisis.’

The AFA team are managing enquiries from furnishing businesses across Australia concerned about the state of the economy, how they can access the various government initiatives on offer, the impact of the downturn in the retail sector and how we can assist them for the future of their companies. AFA services partners are also working hard to provide professional advice on cost saving measures and strategic planning.

‘However, on the flip side, our members are seeing opportunities to diversify their manufacturing and distribution models to meet the new demands placed on the Australian community due to the pandemic. Our job is to connect them to these opportunities wherever possible.’

For example, many member businesses are scaling up hospital grade furniture production to cope with the impending health care requirements, including mattresses, beds, trolleys, and other critical equipment.

Some businesses have been connected to networks and are collaborating with completely new supply chains to transition their manufacturing to produce PPE until such time as the demand for their regular products return to normal.

Whilst another long-standing member is reintroducing the manufacturing of products that were phased out years ago which are now in short supply and in high demand. Due to the rise in freight costs, and export restrictions being placed in the country of origin these components are now impossible to import, but critical to the manufacture of some of the vital health products that will be required by Australian hospitals in the coming weeks.

‘Our focus right now is to be there for our members, address concerns, demonstrate a commitment to their business, connect them to the appropriate networks and work channels and deliver regular, clear communications. We believe that this approach will see the industry survive and thrive for many years to come.’

If the AFA can be of any further assistance, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Stay safe.

?The AFA Team.

[email protected]

ABOUT THE AUSTRALASIAN FURNISHING ASSOCIATION

The Australasian Furnishing Association (AFA) is the peak industry organisation representing Australian and International Members and provides advocacy and lobbying leadership via government and industry led networks. Spanning national and global markets the AFA contributes to worldwide consultation, collaboration and developments on behalf of all Members across the Australasian region. AFA Members are reputable suppliers to residential and commercial environs, including the hospitality, tourism, workplace, health and education sectors.

AFA Members operate across the furnishing supply chain including education and training, design, manufacturing, supply of services and materials, installation, compliance, testing and certification, import and export of furniture, furnishings and components.