Ai Group has proudly supported Australian industry for 150 years.
Its foundations were laid in December 1873 with the establishment of the Iron Trades Employers' Association in Sydney as a response to the formation of the first trade unions in Australia.
The group’s name was changed to the Metal Trades Employers' Association in 1922 and in 1970, it merged with the Metal Industries Association of Victoria to form the Metal Trades Industry Association Australia (MTIA).
In 1998, MTIA merged with the Australian Chamber of Manufactures (ACM) to form the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) as we are known today.
ACM has its own long history dating back to 1877 when the Manufacturers and Exhibitors Association was formed in Melbourne, later becoming the Victorian Chamber of Manufactures (VCM).
On February 8, 1985, VCM became the Australian Chamber of Manufactures (ACM).
Ai Group further extended its national presence with the amalgamating on July 1, 2009, with the Engineering Employers Association South Australia.
Today, along with affiliated organisations, Ai Group has grown to become a peak national employer association representing businesses across the country.
Chief Executive Innes Willox sees the 150th anniversary of the organisation as much more than a chance to reflect on past successes.
“Ai Group has only been around as long as we have by remaining relevant to members,” he said.
“We do this by staying connected and listening to the businesses of all types and sizes that make up our membership.
“As we look ahead to the next decade and beyond, we are working hard to ensure Ai Group remains a policy leader and high-level provider of business advice and services.
“We are commited to using the bank of influence that we have built up over 150 years to get the best outcomes for employers and their employees and the community.”
We look forward to celebrating with staff, members and special guests throughout the year.
