FBA AU

FBA AU FBA is the peak body for family businesses in Australia and New Zealand, helping them to grow and thrive. Please read the following guidelines before posting.

Members are supported through tailored education and events, Forum Group Program, a community of like-minded peers and access to accredited advisors. Our purpose is to contribute to the long term success of family business. We do this by facilitating and engaging resources and channels that promote success and foster sustainability and longevity. Our programs and products are developed to build st

ronger families and healthier businesses. We provide access to specialist family, business and technical services and generate opportunities for families in business to learn and grow by networking and sharing with their peers. Community Guidelines

We take pride in keeping the FBA page respectful, pleasant, and enjoyable for members of all ages. You agree, through your use of the FBA page that you will not post any material which is knowingly false and / or defamatory, derogatory, inaccurate, abusive, vulgar, hateful, harassing, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, invasive of a person's privacy, or otherwise violative of any law. You agree not to post any copyrighted material unless the copyright is owned by you or permission for use has been obtained. The messages express the views of the author of the message, not necessarily the views of FBA. Any user who feels that a posted message does not comply with the rules or the spirit as mentioned above may report the post to the administrator at [email protected]. The Administrator has the ability to remove messages from public view and we will make every effort to do so within a reasonable time frame if we determine that removal is necessary. This is a manual process however so please realise that we may not be able to remove or edit particular messages immediately. Self-Promotion is Spam. Our administrator will endeavor to try and read all posts on the page. If we catch questionable content, it will immediately be removed. Any post that is considered advertising for one's self-interests, including the promotion of a product or any site one is affiliated with will be removed. We request that you don’t post links to sites you run or are in any way affiliated with. Repeat violators who post promotional content will be permanently banned. Our community is an open resource for all ages. Language should be kept respectful at all times. Vulgar language is not allowed. This constitutes the use of any kind of offensive, discriminatory, or otherwise inappropriate material deemed distasteful and unsafe for younger members. Inappropriate language will potentially be removed and users will be warned. Do not post provocative, outrageous, or pointless messages only to get a response from others, i.e. "trolling." Repeat violators will be permanently banned. In order to maintain a positive atmosphere, no personal attacks or insults will be tolerated. While discussions may become heated, it is not an excuse to result to attacks or insults. There is a difference between a passionate, respectful discussion and one that delves into personal matters. Think of it as debating issues, not individuals. When the line is crossed, the discussion may be deleted by administrators and the users will be warned and potentially banned. Feel free to add a member to the page who is involved in any aspect of your Business, Family or Both. Show your support for the positive future of the Family Business in Western Australia here. pages have a search function at the top right hand side of the page in the shape of a magnifying glass. It is an easy way to search back on past threads for a particular topic and avoid duplicate topics. Lastly, if it is abundantly clear that a user has no intention of positively contributing to discussions, combined with an abrasive, combative attitude, they will be banned. Users must demonstrate an interest in contributing to discussions. We encourage you to think before you type as your actions may be quoted at a later date and outside of the page. This could potentially disadvantage the user and collaterally punish other users. If you have a problem or a complaint, direct it to the administrators, not on the page wall. We reserve the right to ban flagrant offenders when deemed necessary, with or without prior warning. The page rules, policies and disclaimers are enforced by FBA staff. You agree not to, in any form, abuse, harass, threaten, or descend upon administrators of FBA over issues relating to their duties. If you would like to discuss any aspect of the page rules or how moderation is conducted, please contact FBA at [email protected].

National Family Business Day is just around the corner and everything you need to get involved is ready to go.This year,...
24/08/2026

National Family Business Day is just around the corner and everything you need to get involved is ready to go.

This year, let's make a week of it! NFBD26 is falling on Saturday 19 September, so let's celebrate throughout the week in the lead-up to the day, and on the day itself.

Your NFBD website is filled with resources, including social media images and videos, posters, key statistics, family business stories and even cupcake toppers. Everything you need to spread the word and celebrate. Visit: https://bit.ly/3UUI0J9

For members of FBA, we have six special National Family Business Day Meet the Owner events:

- SA/NT - Beerenberg, 14 September

- NZ - St Pierres Sushi, 17 September

- NSW/ACT - De Lorenzo, 17 September

- QLD - Inglewood Farms, 17 September

- WA - AGEM Property Group, 17 September

- VIC/TAS- APR Recycling, 18 September

Make sure to login to your portal and book a spot at an event near you. If you're not a member of FBA and want to come along, reach out and have a chat.

We'd love to see you there!

#2026

We continued our Economic Outlook Breakfast series in Sydney last week, bringing together more than 70 family business o...
18/08/2026

We continued our Economic Outlook Breakfast series in Sydney last week, bringing together more than 70 family business owners and advisors for a morning of discussion on the economic landscape and what may be ahead.

Led by Jasamine Goddard and hosted by ANZ, FBA CEO, Catherine Sayer spoke about the current advocacy work at FBA surrounding the proposed changes to discretionary trusts.

Madeline Dunk then shared her economic insights, covering fuel costs, economic confidence, and the employment environment amongst other key topics in a practical and relatable way.

The event provided an opportunity to hear the latest insights into the economic landscape and property market, while connecting with others who understand the opportunities and challenges that come with family business.

Thank you to Madeline Dunk for sharing her insights, and to Catherine Sayer.


Our recent Meet the Owner event in South Australia gave members a chance to hear from the family behind Blackman Recruit...
07/08/2026

Our recent Meet the Owner event in South Australia gave members a chance to hear from the family behind Blackman Recruitment.

Joanne Blackman has worked in recruitment for 33 years and started Blackman Recruitment with her daughter, Arielle Jennings, four and a half years ago, with son, Lachlan Jennings joining the business soon after. The first-generation family business now employs around 40 to 50 people in temporary and permanent roles, while also placing candidates directly with clients.

Joanne, Arielle and Lachlan shared how they came to build the business together and gave us a practical look at what goes into recruitment, including the time and effort involved in sourcing and placing each candidate, and the value of having a strong network to draw on. You could really see how proud they are of what they have built and how much they enjoy working together.

They are now a loud and proud family business, however they shared that early on, they were unsure about promoting that aspect of the business. Since joining FBA, they have leaned into telling that side of their story and found that it really resonates with their clients.

We finished the evening with a delicious spread of local South Australian food, including lamingtons from fellow member Kytons Bakery and Kersbrook Hill wine.

Thank you to Joanne, Arielle and Lachlan for sharing your story so openly, and to Kasia Maczuga from ADLV Law for facilitating the session.

“If you’re standing still, you’re going backwards.”It was a full house at our recent Meet the Owner event at Retravision...
06/08/2026

“If you’re standing still, you’re going backwards.”

It was a full house at our recent Meet the Owner event at Retravision in Perth, where members heard from three generations of the Dorsett family.

Retravision is a fourth-generation family business that started with Norman Dorsett, a young immigrant determined to build a better life, and more than 100 years later is one of WA’s most respected family businesses.

Lorna, Carolyn, David and Katy spoke openly about the moments that shaped the business. They reflected on the setbacks, the decisions that changed its direction and the responsibility of continuously carrying the family business forward.

It was really special to have three generations represented from the family. Lorna, a 2nd generation family member, shared for her what makes a successful family business is prioritising the physical and mental wellbeing of one another. 4th generation, Katy, spoke about the importance of family values and loyalty. Throughout the Q&A, there was a consistent thread about looking after each other, staying true to your values and to keep moving forward.

After the presentation, we were given the opportunity to explore the Retravision showroom, speak directly with the family and browse the extensive range of products.

Thank you to the Dorsett family and the Retravision team for opening your doors and sharing your story so generously with us.

How do you keep your family business moving forward for over 50 years?Our Queensland community heard firsthand from Gran...
06/08/2026

How do you keep your family business moving forward for over 50 years?

Our Queensland community heard firsthand from Grant Menzies and his father, Adina Watches founder, Bob Menzies, at our recent Meet the Owner event.

It was a full house in Woolloongabba, Brisbane, where we toured the facility and saw the intricate work and craftsmanship that goes into making the watches by hand. The tour continued through the watch showroom, taking a look at many of their current range and watches from throughout their history.

Catherine Sayer, FBA CEO welcomed everyone and invited Deputy Mayor Fiona Cunningham to share details on the Brisbane City Council’s plans for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, before we heard from the Adina Watches team.

Andrew Barter skillfully facilitated a Q&A with Grant and Bob, unpacking the history of Adina Watches, their experiences working together and what the future holds for the business.

Grant made special mention of two career highlights: winning the Lord Mayor’s Small Business Award, and producing watches for the 2019 Adina Polocrosse World Cup which involved Grant's wife, Nicole dashing up to Hong Kong to get some watch pieces so they could finish the watches for the event.

So what's next? Grant shared his goal to see Australian athletes wearing Adina Watches at the Brisbane 2032 Games. With his energy, enthusiasm, dedication and can-do attitude, it is absolutely possible and we wish you all the best!

Thank you to Grant, Bob and the Adina Watches team for being such generous hosts and giving our community an insight into your iconic Australian family business.

We are seeking a Non-Executive Director to join the FBA Board and serve as Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee.After...
04/08/2026

We are seeking a Non-Executive Director to join the FBA Board and serve as Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee.

After nearly seven years on the FBA Board, Ken Matthews, Board Member and Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee, will be retiring from his role.

This is an opportunity to contribute your finance and risk expertise to FBA and support family businesses across Australia and New Zealand.

You will be responsible for:

- Contributing to the development, approval, and monitoring of FBA’s strategy, annual plans, and budgets.
- Exercising independent judgment and oversight over management’s performance, major investments, and key initiatives.
- Ensuring FBA meets its legal, fiduciary, and regulatory obligations as an Australian not-for-profit/industry body (as applicable).
- Promoting good governance, ethical conduct, and alignment with FBA’s purpose and values.
- Participating actively in Board meetings, strategy sessions, and occasional stakeholder events.

Experience and skills you will need:

- Financial analysis and oversight
- Risk management and internal controls
- Audit, compliance, and assurance
- Experience with or strong understanding of family-owned businesses and their unique dynamics is highly desirable.


Learn more about the role and how to apply:
https://bit.ly/4gaXZhM

We spoke with Nicola Lester from Enviromesh, a business specialising in the manufacture and supply of synthetic fibres f...
03/08/2026

We spoke with Nicola Lester from Enviromesh, a business specialising in the manufacture and supply of synthetic fibres for concrete reinforcement.

Nicola’s father, Alex, acquired Fibercon in 2020, which had traditionally supplied steel fibres to coal mines in Queensland. Recognising the growing need for more sustainable construction materials, he rebranded the business as Enviromesh and shifted its focus towards synthetic reinforcement alternatives.

Today, Enviromesh supplies projects across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, with plans to expand into the UAE in 2026. Its products include eMesh, a 100% recycled fibre designed to replace steel mesh reinforcement.

Nicola joined the business in May 2025, bringing her experience in the construction industry and a strong focus on growth, branding and market engagement.

The business’s greatest success has been helping the industry adopt a different approach to construction. With more than 500 projects completed, Enviromesh is continuing to build trust in fibre reinforcement and demonstrate its environmental and operational benefits.

Nicola and Alex joined FBA to connect with other families who understand the added responsibility that comes when your colleagues are also your family.

Their advice to other family businesses is to communicate openly, respect what each person brings to the business and protect the family relationship.

Learn more about Enviromesh and read Nicola’s advice for other family businesses: https://bit.ly/4pX0bNd

What does it take to build a family business from the ground up and prepare the next generation to help lead it?Our Vict...
29/07/2026

What does it take to build a family business from the ground up and prepare the next generation to help lead it?

Our Victorian family business community recently stepped inside Cold Xpress for a Meet the Owner event with founder John Di Losa and his son, Jack Di Losa. It was a family affair, with so many members of the extended family there too, including Jack’s daughters, as well as key members of the Cold Xpress team.

The family was incredibly candid and generous in sharing the story behind Cold Xpress, including the hurdles and lessons along the way, and the relationships that have helped shape the business. John spoke about the grassroots nature of the business, the growth over the years, and the importance of looking after customers, building loyalty and stressed the importance of relationships.

Both Jack and John explained their points of view in the succession process, with Jack’s move into the COO role, and how they are planning for the future with technology upgrades and other infrastructure.

We were all taken on a tour of both the cold storage facility and the head office. The scale and capability of the facility was impressive, giving everyone a chance to learn more about the technology behind the operation. In the office space, you can see the importance of the family’s legacy with special touches all around, including the family lounge room area, which is made up of original furniture pieces from John’s parents house.

Thank you to John, Jack and the entire Cold Xpress family and team for being such fantastic hosts, to Catherine Sayer for facilitating the Q&A, and to La Calabrese Pizzeria for a delicious spread and the yummy cannoli.

It was great to be up in the NT again for an evening event jointly hosted with ANZ and KPMG at the Darwin Trailer Boat C...
29/07/2026

It was great to be up in the NT again for an evening event jointly hosted with ANZ and KPMG at the Darwin Trailer Boat Club.

We were joined by Angus Kennard, who openly let us into the Kennard’s family story and his personal experience working in a multi-generational family business.

FBA CEO, Catherine Sayer also shared an update on FBA, and the issues and opportunities currently facing the family business sector. Followed by an economic update from Daniel Gradwell from ANZ.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on a balmy night. It was wonderful to bring the Darwin family business community together and see all the pockets of conversations happening around the room. We look forward to returning to Darwin again soon.

Our latest After 5 Connect event brought together the QLD family business community in Brisbane at ABOVE: Ovolo Rooftop ...
28/07/2026

Our latest After 5 Connect event brought together the QLD family business community in Brisbane at ABOVE: Ovolo Rooftop Bar.

To make this one extra special, it was the first official event for our new FBA QLD representative, Cassie Hargreaves.

It was a great evening, catching up with the community. Check out the photos from the event below.

Thanks to everyone who joined us.

Make sure to check out our upcoming events to book your spot at the next one.

Address

Level 8, 5 Queens Road
Melbourne, VIC
3004

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+611800249357

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