PRESIDENT'S REPORT

2007 was again a period of considerable growth for IPAA, and an extremely busy but successful year. Following on from the tough decisions of 2005 and the major structural changes occurring in 2006, IPAA concentrated on growing the bottom line and lifting its profile in readiness for the new Council to take a more long-term strategic view.

IPAA’s Learning and Development Program continues to go from strength to strength. 50 workshops were held in 2007, attracting a total audience of approximately 900 people. IPAA introduced its first nationally accredited courses, including the highly popular Diploma of Project Management. IPAA is also receiving considerable interest in tailored programs, and we expect to see continued growth in this area in the future. Overall, the IPAA Learning and Development Program is proving very successful, filling core capacity gaps in the public sector and encouraging further networking across the sector and between agencies.

IPAA ran 14 of its own events last year, which attracted 2,196 attendees. It also collaborated with other organisations for specific events and partnered with the Public Sector Workforce Division to develop and run the first ever Public Sector Week in November, consisting of a range of tours and open days at public sector venues, for the public.

2007 saw the phase-in of the new corporate membership structure. Twelve agencies are currently corporate members and receive discounts on attendance at events and workshops. Overall, there was significant movement in individual membership over 2007. As at the end of December, IPAA’s membership was at 448, up from 409 at December 2006. IPAA lost 67 members due to retirement and the move to corporate membership, but welcomed 112 new members, mostly from the ranks of young professionals.

IPAA’s new governance model is working well, with a new Council established in April 2008 and commencing work in June. October saw the commencement of a strategic planning process which has allowed the Council to redefine its vision and mission and core goals, which are:

Overall, the transition of the 2005-2006 period continued in 2007, moving IPAA much further along the path of becoming the vibrant and relevant professional body required by its membership and participants. IPAA’s profile has lifted considerably. It has again expanded its operations and capacity, it is attracting newer members, including young members, and is being asked to partner with other organizations in building the capacity of the public sector to service the South Australian community. Looking forward to 2008, IPAA aims to build on this growth and consolidate to ensure continued quality offerings. We thank all members and supporters for thier continued support.

Anne Howe, President, IPAA SA