Who we are & What we do

Family Business Association (FBA) is the peak body for family businesses in Australia and New Zealand, helping them to grow and thrive.

We advocate for a sector that plays an integral role in our economy and social fabric, accounting for 70% of all businesses and 50% of the workforce in Australia, and 75% of business and the workforce in New Zealand. Family businesses of all sizes have a unique experience and set of distinctive challenges that sets their needs apart. FBA is uniquely family business focused, helping members navigate the nuanced intersection of family dynamics and business operations, supporting both the wellbeing of the family unit and employees, and the success of the business through generations.

Our members benefit from tailored education programs, member-only discounts, and valuable networking opportunities with like-minded peers through exclusive events and our Forum Group program. We also provide our members with tailored connections to FBA Accredited Advisors who are passionate and well-versed in the intricacies of family businesses.

No one in family business should feel isolated or overwhelmed. FBA provides a supportive environment for members to tap into a wealth of knowledge and shared experiences within a community that truly understands what it means to be in family business.

Family Businesses are the Backbone of Our Economy.

Family businesses are integral to Australia's economy, representing 70% of all businesses and employing 50% of the workforce. These businesses generate an estimated $4.3 trillion in wealth, highlighting their significant economic impact.

In New Zealand, family businesses represent a staggering 75% of all businesses, contributing approximately 65% to GDP, and employing around 75% of the workforce. Notably, the agriculture sector, which is pivotal to the nation's economy, is predominantly made up of family-owned businesses.

From small local shops to large multinational corporations, family businesses are the leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and job creators that keep Australia and New Zealand moving forward.

Family Business are Community Champions.

Beyond their economic contributions, family businesses are also champions of community support and philanthropy. They sponsor local sports teams, build community infrastructure, and establish foundations, making significant contributions to the social fabric of our communities. These philanthropic efforts underscore the deep-rooted commitment of family businesses to giving back and support the communities in areas where they operate.

Family Business are the Most Trusted.

Family businesses are not only trusted by consumers but also preferred. 70% of consumers trust family-owned businesses over non-family businesses, and 66% are willing to pay more for their products and services. Additionally, 54% of the workforce prefers to work for family businesses, reflecting the positive work environment and strong community ties these companies offer.

Why Join Family Business Association?

There is something truly special about the FBA community, where like-minded peers come together, creating a supportive and trusting environment for each other. The vulnerability, openness to share, and readiness to assist each other is a testament to the strength and camaraderie of the FBA community and the special ‘magic dust’ they create.

• Community: Networking with like-minded peers provides you with authentic support and guidance from people who truly understand. Our Forum Group Program takes this even further, providing unmatched support.

• Learning: Tailored, family business specific courses will give you and your family the tools and next steps to strategically plan for sustained success.

• Advocacy: FBA will help to amplify your business' voice while representing the needs of the family business sector to government, key associations and the community. A few examples: Letter to the Editor: IR Legislation, Radio Interview on 3AW, Letter to the Editor: The 'Silent' Sector,  Business View Oceania Feature.

• Guidance: Connect with expert FBA Family Business Accredited Advisors to receive trusted guidance and support from professionals who understand the nuances of operating a family business.

Harness the knowledge and experience of a community that truly understands what it means to be in family business.
You don’t have to do it alone.

Join the FBA community today

National Office Contacts

Chief Executive Officer

Catherine Sayer

"I love meeting our members and hearing their stories. It allows me to truly represent the views and issues of our membership whether it be with other members, media, stakeholders and all level of government." Catherine Sayer joined Family Business Association as the CEO in August 2023. She is the previous Chief Executive Officer of Food South Australia Inc. with a team in Adelaide, Japan and China, developing and delivering programs across areas of market development, capacity and capability building and advocacy for the food and beverage industry. Catherine has been recognised as the key representative as the voice of industry to government and has strong stakeholder engagement skills. Catherine graduated with a degree in Business Management, majoring in Marketing and is a member and graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She has worked with organisations across a number of sectors, both private and public. csayer@familybusiness.org.au | 0412 442 268 03 9867 5322 "I love meeting our members and hearing their stories. It allows me to truly represe... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Catherine Sayer

Events and Partnership Manager

Danielle Ricato

dricato@familybusiness.org.au | 0438 961 789 dricato@familybusiness.org.au | ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Danielle Ricato

Forum Group Manager

Olivia Spalding

"Assisting peer networks deeply engage in business and personal success. What a privilege!" forums@familybusiness.org.au | 03 9123 4412"Assisting peer networks deeply engage in business and personal success. What a privi... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Olivia Spalding

Education and Awards Program Manager

Sarah Herft

"I connect with our members’ needs and help align solutions that support them."sherft@familybusiness.org.au | 03 9087 8389 "I connect with our members’ needs and help align solutions that support them."... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Sarah Herft

Office Manager

Jacqui Webb-Pullman

“With empathy, I connect family businesses with the right people and resources.” info@familybusiness.org.au | 1800 249 357“With empathy, I connect family businesses with the right people and resources.” ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Jacqui Webb-Pullman

Accounts & HR Assistant

Emma Stephens

accounts@familybusiness.org.au | 1800 249 357 accounts@familybusiness.org.au ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Emma Stephens

Co-State Representative VIC & TAS

Nick Dalziel

ndalziel@familybusiness.org.au membership@familybusiness.org.au | 91251437ndalziel@familybusiness.org.au ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Nick Dalziel

Membership Coordinator and Co-State Representative VIC & TAS

Tom McKernan

"I love helping family businesses to succeed and hearing their stories." tmckernan@familybusiness.org.au membership@familybusiness.org.au | 1800 249 357"I love helping family businesses to succeed and hearing their stories." ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Tom McKernan

Senior Program Officer

Diana Thoeny

“With a genuine passion for family business, I’m committed to supporting the sector’s growth and long-term success.” dthoeny@familybusiness.org.au | 0418 753 591“With a genuine passion for family business, I’m committed to supporting the sector’s... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Diana Thoeny

Marketing and Communications Manager

Amanda Rotberg

"Always front of mind for me, is what's in the best interests of family businesses." arotberg@familybusiness.org.au | 03 9124 1751"Always front of mind for me, is what's in the best interests of family businesses." ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Amanda Rotberg

New Zealand Country Manager

Nicole Pluck

npluck@familybusiness.org.nz | +64 212 445 446 0800 249 357 npluck@familybusiness.org.nz | ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Nicole Pluck

State Representative - WA

Katie McMeekin

kmcmeekin@familybusiness.org.au | +61 488 827 376kmcmeekin@familybusiness.org.au ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Katie McMeekin

State Representative - QLD

Laura Suarez

lsuarez@familybusiness.org.au | +61 488 827 398lsuarez@familybusiness.org.au | ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Laura Suarez

State Representative - SA & NT

Amanda Russell

arussell@familybusiness.org.au | +61 488 827 430arussell@familybusiness.org.au | ... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Amanda Russell

State Representative - NSW & ACT

Lisa Jay

"With family business roots, I’m passionate about helping our members thrive." ljay@familybusiness.org.au | +61 488 827 377"With family business roots, I’m passionate about helping our members thrive."... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Lisa Jay

Education & Awards Administration Assistant

Jen Wang

"Keen to help and listen to our members, I am committed to supporting family businesses in having a positive experience." jwang@familybusiness.org.au | 1800 249 357"Keen to help and listen to our members, I am committed to supporting family business... Show MoreShow Less

Learn more about Jen Wang