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The Blind Manufacturers Association of Australia (BMAA) has announced that it will undergo a name change following the approval of a motion at at Special General Meeting held on 7 August.
The organisation will now be known as the Window Shading Association of Australia Limited (WSAA).
“On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to announce that the motion to change the name of our Association has been approved by the members at the Special General Meeting held today,” Gilbert Da Silva, President of the Window Shading Association of Australia said.
“Before we are formally known as the Window Shading Association of Australia Limited (WSAA), we must now lodge the appropriate paperwork with ASIC and await formal acceptance.”
”If accepted, we will be updating our branding and marketing materials to reflect our new name. This includes a new logo, website, socials and promotional materials. The new domain www.wsaa.au, will replace www.bmaa.net.au and all email addresses will transition accordingly.”
”Members will receive new membership decals, and updated certificates will be available upon request.”
The change of name has been a focus for the board for a number of years with focus groups, constitutional changes, and workshops held to shortlist new names that better represent the Association.
Da Silva highlighted four main reasons behind the board’s decision to present the resolution for the name change including a more inclusive name, industry perception, growth opportunities and Government recognition.
“The new name is more inclusive. Not all members align themselves with the term ‘blind manufacturer’. Broadening our name will better reflect our inclusive nature and diverse membership.”
“Many potential members have not considered joining the BMAA, viewing it as exclusive to blind manufacturers. A new name will help attract a wider audience.
“A broader appeal will open new markets and support our existing members, enhancing our association’s value.
“Finally, a more inclusive name will help government bodies better understand who we represent and encourage them to work with us, recognising the full scope of our membership and the industry’s diversity.”
Over 75% of members who attended the Special General Meeting voted to adopt the new name.
Pathway to a name change
Focus Group Interest: In February 2020, BMAA members expressed interest in participating in a focus group to discuss the future direction of the association.
Member Focus Group: In May 2020, a focus group reviewed the Strategic Plan, discussing the need for a rebrand to better reflect our industry’s current scope.
Constitutional Changes: In March 2023, members approved changes to the Constitution which allowed its membership categories to be updated to include retailers and importers, reflecting broader industry involvement.
Workshop at General Meeting: In October 2023, a workshop with members led to brainstorming and shortlisting new names that better represent the Association.
Board confirmation: In February 2024, the BMAA board proposed a rebrand of the Association to the Window Shading Association of Australia Limited (WSAA).
Special General Meeting: A Virtual Special General Meeting took place on Wednesday 7 August 2024 at 2.30pm with more than a 75% majority of voting members voting in favour of the new name.
