The Associations Salary Survey 2025 found that association salaries had risen on average 1.8 per cent over the year, compared to a 12.1 per cent annual increase the previous year.
Other research takeaways included that overwhelmingly, workplace flexibility is the most important driver of talent retention – 95 per cent of responses indicated this – and that salaries rose for 10 of the 14 positions for which data was collected, with the four that did not see a rise the same positions that saw the largest increases the previous year.
“Understanding how salaries are shifting across the sector gives associations a clear advantage when it comes to workforce planning,” said Associations Forum general manager, Fatima Sunderji.
“This year’s results highlight not just changes in pay, but also what’s driving staff attraction and retention — particularly the growing emphasis on flexibility and organisational purpose.
“With detailed benchmarking across 14 key roles, this report is more than a snapshot – it’s a strategic tool that equips associations to remain competitive and forward-focused.
“Flexibility and purpose continue to drive staff engagement, but it’s the role-specific insights within this report that provide the clarity needed to budget effectively and attract the right talent.”
The research collected insights from 255 associations.
The Associations Forum is offering the full 92-page report for a fee to both members and non-members within the not-for-profit sector.
