PRESIDENT’S REPORT
It is with a great sense of pride and optimism that I present the Annual Report for the Boating Industry Association (BIA) for the period ending 31 December 2025. This past year has been a defining chapter for our organisation as we navigated a complex economic landscape while steadfastly championing the interests of the Australian marine sector.
The BIA remains the essential conduit between the boating community, commercial enterprises and government. Our strategic importance has never been more evident than in 2025. Through rigorous advocacy across nearly 50 committees and the development of the Australian Recreational Boating Statement, we have ensured that our industry’s significant economic and social contributions are recognised at the highest levels of policy and planning.
This report details our achievements across four key pillars: participation, advocacy, jobs, and member services. We have seen the ‘See You Out There’ Discover Boating advertising campaign reach millions, inviting more Australians to experience the restorative power of time on the water. Simultaneously, we have tackled the industry’s most pressing challenge—the skills shortage—through innovative taster programs and the expansion of the Marine Jobs initiative, working to secure the next generation of maritime professionals.
The strength of the BIA lies in our unity. With nearly 700 member companies now under our banner, our collective voice is louder and more influential than ever. Whether through the evolution of safety standards, the investment in boat shows, or the refinement of our accreditation programs, every action taken this year was designed to bolster the commercial viability and professional standing of our membership.
As we look toward 2026, we remain committed to fostering a safe, sustainable and thriving boating culture. I thank the Board, our dedicated staff, and you—our members—for your continued support and commitment to the future of boating in Australia.
Adam Smith President, Boating Industry Association Ltd
GOVERNANCE AND PEOPLE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Adam Smith was returned as Chair of the Board and BIA President at the BIA Ltd AGM in May 2025, with Nicholas Kitchen standing as vice-President, and Richard Hopkins returned as Treasurer.
The Board of Directors for 2025 was constituted of nine directors, with three each from NSW, Queensland and SA; the Board did not decide to appoint a Boardappointed director during the year. The BIA Board met on 12 occasions during the year, via a mix of Teams and in-person meetings.
The 2025 AGM was held online, with members participating in an online ballot, directed by the AGM Notice of Meeting agenda, in the week preceding the meeting date. There were no changes to State council nominated directors; each State nominates one director each year with members participating in the AGM confirming the nomination as appropriate.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025
Nicholas Kitchen
Richard Hopkins
Karen Baldwin
Miriam Griffen
Andrew Hayes
Jon Hunt
Marine Pty Ltd
Tracy Souris Sydney Boat House
Steve Williams Standen Marine
BOATING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION LTD STAFF 2025
Andrew Fielding CEO
Andrew Scott CFO
Nik Parker
Neil Patchett
Shane Wilson
George Bolton
Kim Fox
Jessica Pyke-Nott
Alyssa Carnell
General Manager, Member Services
General Manager, Government & Public Relations
Member Programs Manager
Manager Business Support (SA & NT)
Marketing & Communications Manager (resigned March 2025)
Marketing Communications & Events Coordindator (appointed April 2025, resigned July 2025)
Marketing, Communications & Events Coordindator (appointed October 2025)
GOVERNANCE AND PEOPLE
STATE COUNCILS
The BIA State Councils continued to meet throughout the year to progress a number of local advocacy issues, projects and to consider the approach to future strategic direction of the Association, member support and boating promotion. Each Council was constituted of up to 11 Councillors, with a number of new member-elected representatives being returned at the relevant State Council AGMs in April. Each State Council met three times during the year, in a mix of online and in-person meetings.
NEW SOUTH WALES STATE COUNCIL CHAIR’S REPORT
As your NSW State Chair, I am pleased to present an update on the significant work we’ve accomplished over the past 12 months. It has been a busy and productive year for BIA in NSW, and I’m proud of what we have achieved together as an industry. Covering just two key areas of BIA’s work – boating lifestyle promotion and industry representation and advocacy - I am happy to report we have had some excellent results from our work program.
The Discover Boating campaign for 2025-26 was a three-month campaign and the outcomes are impressive – over 6.3 million people viewed the ad on television and 9.6 million on digital channels across Australia.
Locally, in NSW, we also ran a targeted PWC safety campaign around Port Stephens and Botany Bay that reached 1.1 million people, with strong support from Sea Doo, Kawasaki, and Yamaha. The campaign focused on promoting safe, responsible, and enjoyable behaviour on the water.
The primary boating lifestyle promotion event, the Sydney Boat Show, faced significant challenges last year due to escalating government costs at ICC. We made the decision to split the show into two events: Sydney Boat Show at Olympic Park in August and the On Water Show at Cockle Bay in November. While this required considerable adjustment, it enabled us to continue showcasing boating to the public and support our key focus area of growing participation in boating.
On the advocacy front, we maintained active engagement, with several meetings held with Minister Aitchison, responsible for Boating in this state. Our advocacy covered various issues including power boating bans, and we have presented to Government a five-point plan to address concerns about PWC rider behaviour. We also engaged with NSW Shadow Ministers in preparation for the March 2027 election to ensure our priorities remain visible.
We continued working closely with MP Roy Butler, who leads a Parliamentary Group of approximately 35 MPs – including Ministers – with interest in boating and fishing. Roy is assisting us in organizing a special event inside Parliament to brief MPs on our key industry priorities.
We also maintained regular engagement with the key industry regulator, Transport for NSW – approximately a dozen meetings covering the Marine Safety Plan review, lifejackets regulation, Marine Infrastructure Plan, fees and charges, the Better Boating program, and various marine programs.
The boating industry continues to play a vital role in our economy and our communities, providing recreation, employment, and economic activity across NSW, and members’ support for and participation with BIA is essential to our association’s success. Thank you to our members in NSW for your ongoing support.
I’d like also to extend my thanks to our State Councillors and Directors for their dedicated service, as well as welcome new members joining the BIA throughout the year.
Tracy Souris
Chair NSW State Council
NEW SOUTH WALES STATE COUNCIL 2025
Adam Smith (Chair until July 2025)
Gatt
Hunt
Jarvin
Kristen Kearns (appointed April 2025)
David Kurczewski (appointed April 2025)
Matthew Lloyd (resigned March 2025)
Shannon O'Brien (resigned March 2025)
Ned O’Neil
Tracy Souris (Chair from July 2025)
My Boat
Sydney Harbour Kayaks
Rose Bay Marina
Sydney Boathouse
Shannon Stocks Shannon Outboard Service
Neil Webster
Lorraine Yates
GOVERNANCE AND PEOPLE
QUEENSLAND STATE COUNCIL CHAIR’S REPORT
In speaking with businesses across Queensland, the mood across 2025 was steady but measured. Many reported slightly softer enquiry levels as consumers remain cautious. At the same time, there was a noticeable increase in quoting activity, with customers carefully assessing the cost of required works before committing. Boat dealers and brokerages have seen mixed conditions: the high-end market remains relatively stable, while mid-range and entry-level segments are more inconsistent.
The positive is that during times of heavy news cycles and economic uncertainty, people often turn to boating and fishing as an escape. That presents an opportunity for all of us in the industry to be strong advocates for the lifestyle we believe in and to encourage more people to experience the benefits of time on the water.
Importantly, core maintenance demand remains. Engines still need servicing, antifoul still needs to be applied, and essential repairs can’t be deferred indefinitely.
Across Queensland waterways, we have been closely watching the impact of the Noosa River 28-day-per-year anchoring limit; it will be interesting to see the net outcome and how effectively it improves this valuable waterway. There are certainly other locations around the state that could benefit from similar initiatives.
Our work to plan for the mid-term future, also saw BIA engaged with the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games delivery team, working to ensure the significant opportunity to showcase our state and its waterways that the Games presents is capitalised on for the ongoing success of BIA members and the boating industry generally. BIA continues to work with key stakeholders to ensure event planning delivers meaningful, long-term legacy infrastructure for the boating community.
The demand for workers is still a significant issue for our industry with ongoing concerns about the current and future supply of qualified workers. The success of the BIA’s Marine Jobs program and their partnership with TAFE Queensland and The Industry School is delivering results with a noticeable increase in participation in marine courses and an overall awareness of the opportunities that exist for jobseekers, future tradespeople and professionals.
Well done to the whole BIA team for their commitment supporting our members, and a particular thank you to the Queensland State Councillors for their support throughout the year.
Nic Kitchen
Chair BIA Qld State Council
QUEENSLAND STATE COUNCIL 2025
COUNCILLOR
Nicholas Kitchen
Ben Anderson
Rob Bamford
Brett Bolton
Raymond Blane
Nathan Clark (resigned May 2025)
Johan Hasser (resigned March 2025)
Derrick Nowak
Mike Orsmond
Sonia Robinson (appointed April 2025)
Fabien Vignes
Steve Williams
Seatech Marine Services
Mackay Marina / Peter Hansen Yacht Brokers Mackay Councillor
Marine Structures Councillor
Coriolis Marine Councillor
Southern Seas Marine Councillor
Seal Marine Management & Consultancy Councillor
Mulpha Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show Pty Ltd Councillor
Maritimo Offshore Councillor
Rib Force Inflatables Councillor
EziYacht Councillor
All Marine Spares Councillor
Standen Marine / Flaghship International Yacht Brokers Councillor
GOVERNANCE AND PEOPLE
SOUTH AUSTRALIA STATE COUNCIL CHAIR’S REPORT
There have been many challenges facing the boating industry in both inland waters and coastal waters during the last year. Infrastructure cost, increasing compliance costs, a lack of skilled workers, increased overheads, insurance issues, the aging fleet, aging owners, and competition with other recreational sectors, to name a few. Now we add the SA Algal Bloom to this list, as a major environmental and economic issue.
Since April 2025, South Australia has faced an unprecedented harmful algal bloom affecting Gulf St Vincent, Spencer Gulf and surrounding coastal waters. While conditions have improved in some locations, authorities consider it an ongoing and dynamic situation requiring continued monitoring, industry support and long-term mitigation strategies. The State Government has responded to industry advocacy with a number of measures to safeguard South Australia’s marine economy against future events, including a voucher system to stimulate tourism to the marine environs.
This has included support for the recreational boating sector in way of funding for a boating promotion campaign, delivered by BIA to help bolster participation and engagement with member businesses.
In the same way, the Houseboat Hirers Division maintained its very successful TV advertising campaign, sparking continued renewed interest in houseboat experiences, which includes other power boat activities, fishing and paddling on the River Murray. This program is fully funded by members of the HHA Division and is a great example of the strength of industry working collaboratively.
However, long-running post-flood navigational issues, particularly upstream due to changed channel conditions, remain unresolved, alongside ongoing concerns around slipways and haul-out facilities. In fact, during the last year, the latter has only exacerbated with further closure of already limited number of facilities available.
We have visited the Riverina regions to undertake further research, and the BIA team has been engaged with local government and state government with a recent submission to the Premier, detailing the plight of the industry and requesting assistance.
In October 2025, the Adelaide 4WD and Adventure Show and the Club Marine SA Boat and Fishing Show was held at the Wayville Showgrounds. Boating was well represented by local businesses and several interstate exhibitors, however with the government announcing new fishing bag limit restrictions on the eve of the show, it put a dampener on the event.
The challenge to rejuvenate the industry’s depleted pool of resources of skilled labour and diversity of marine-based industries and services in continuous. The BIA’s work in SA with the Australian Institute of Engineering (AIE) in delivering Cert III in Marine Craft Construction, continues with the challenge of maintaining a critical mass to keep the apprenticeship program viable. I am pleased to report that we are sustaining the numbers, but cannot relax on promoting the industry to schools and career forums. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and thank the employers who have taken on apprentices. Your contribution to the industry is vital.
Finally, I have to comment on the talent, diversity, experience, and passion for the industry that our BIA SA State Council contributes. Their relentless fight for advocacy here in SA for our members is commendable. Thank you for your ongoing support.
Jason Day
Chair BIA SA State Council
SOUTH AUSTRALIA STATE COUNCIL 2025
COUNCILLOR
Miriam Griffen (Chair until July 2025)
David Binks
Allen Buckley (appointed April 2025)
Tim Cook
Jason Day (Chair from July 2025)
Jason Deckers
Trish Flaherty (retired March 2025)
Andrew Hayes
Richard Hopkins
Andrew van Ryneveld (appointed April 2025)
Griffens Marina
Binks Marine
Riverdance Houseboat
Club Marine Limited
Dockyard
Seatrail SA
NM Insurance Pty Ltd
Hallett Australia
EJ Milde & Co Pty Ltd
SA Boat Trailers
James Theodore Lenta Marine
OUR MEMBERS
MEMBERSHIP PROFILE END 2025
Membership numbers as at end December 2025 were 668, consisting of a make-up of 609 full financial members, 21 life members, 16 trade members and 22 industry supporter members.
The annual membership renewal for 2025 saw an improved retention rate, with around 90 per cent of memberships continuing. During 2025, there was also good interest from new members to be part of the Association, with 64 new full financial members joining and 12 industry supporter and trade members being listed, making up the final membership for end 2025.
MEMBERSHIP BY STATE
The state-by-state breakdown of full financial members shows 301 located in NSW, 198 in Queensland, 75 in SA, and 35 reporting a head office based in another state.
YEAR IN REVIEW
As we reflect on the 12 months ending 31 December 2025, the Boating Industry Association (BIA) celebrates a year of resilience, strategic evolution and growth. Despite shifting market conditions and economic headwinds, our industry has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to its diverse membership across almost 700 organisations which employ more than 35,000 people nationwide. Guided by our core strategic priorities—growing participation, government advocacy, supporting marine jobs and delivering member services—the BIA has reinforced its position as the peak body for boating in Australia.
GROW PARTICIPATION IN BOATING
The 2024–25 Discover Boating ‘See You Out There’ campaign set a new benchmark for industry promotion. Expanding its reach into Victoria and Tasmania, the campaign delivered a staggering 25.65 million impressions via television and digital media channels over the summer months with support from Century Batteries, GMSV, Marine Rescue NSW and BIA Victoria. This annual initiative continues to go from strength to strength. Beyond traditional marketing, the BIA has pioneered a shift toward “wellness and experience positioning”. Recognising that boating serves as a vital tool for mental health and appreciating the opportunity for outdoor experiences, we have framed time on the water as a restorative lifestyle choice. This cultural shift was celebrated at major events such as the Australian Wooden Boat Festival in Hobart, which drew substantial crowds to witness over 400 vessels, showcasing the enduring appeal of maritime heritage.
Furthermore, the decision to reshape the delivery of the Sydney boat show—moving to a new indoor event at Sydney Olympic Park—positions the industry at the geographic and demographic heart of a population exceeding six million in the region.
YEAR IN REVIEW
ADVOCACY TO GOVERNMENT
Advocacy remains a cornerstone of the BIA’s value proposition. In 2025, the Association represented industry interests across 49 State, national and international committees. Our proactive engagement has been essential in shaping policies that prioritise safe, responsible and enjoyable boating, while promoting infrastructure access across all jurisdictions.
Key achievements this year include:
• Safety Culture: Leading the national “Responsible Boat Owner” campaign to foster a culture of safety and accountability.
• Regulatory Reform: Collaborating with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) on a simplified Safety Management System (SMS) for “lower complexity” operations.
• Strategic Policy: Finalising the landmark Australian Recreational Boating Statement, a nationwide strategy to articulate the economic and social importance of the sector to regulators and policymakers.
• Ongoing work to progress a number of Standards impacting a variety of subjects from vessel design and manufacture to safety equipment and electrical standards.
• Continuing work to improve commercial marina lease policy outcomes in multiple States.
SUPPORT MARINE JOBS
Addressing the critical skills shortage and promoting career pathways were top priorities throughout 2025. The BIA-led “Marine Jobs” initiative received international acclaim following its success at the International Boat Builder Awards.
To build the workforce of tomorrow, the BIA launched a week-long Marine Trades Taster pilot program at Coomera TAFE. This program provided students with hands-on experience in diesel engine science and boat building, culminating in the attainment of their BIA Marine Card. We also strengthened our partnership with The Industry School’s Marine Academy, acting as a conduit to source apprentices for businesses that may lack the resources to manage large-scale training programs. By highlighting diverse roles—from shipwrights to marine surveyors—we continue to showcase the marine industry as a vibrant career destination.
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR MEMBERS
The BIA exists to help members build thriving businesses. Our 2025 Member Satisfaction Survey results—averaging over 4.10 out of 5—confirm that our programs are delivering real value. Membership has continued its upward trajectory, with the Association now representing its broad array of member organisations across Australia. Key developments in 2025 included:
• BIA Accreditation Program: A new promotional program for “BIA Accredited Marine Brokers” was established to raise standards and bolster consumer confidence. This aligns with recommendations from the Beeby Coronial Inquiry where the NSW Deputy State Coroner made a number of recommendations in September 2023.
• Marine Card & Safety Systems: We evolved the Marine Card program to include interactive, scenario-based training and expanded delivery formats to better manage contractor compliance and site safety.
• Industry Partnerships: We secured specialised services for members, including tailored workers’ compensation solutions through Network Marine Insurance and exclusive commercial benefits via Repco and Century Batteries.
LOOKING AHEAD
As we look toward 2026, the BIA remains dedicated to securing a prosperous future for the Australian marine industry. The strong mandate provided by our members allows us to plan with confidence, ensuring boating remains safe, accessible and enjoyable for all. We thank our members, partners, State councillors and Divisions for their tireless support in making 2025 a landmark year.
The Boating Industry Association: Supporting members, promoting the lifestyle and leading the industry.
FINANCIAL REPORT AND SUMMARY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
The audited Financial Report for the year ended 31 December 2025 identifies a trading deficit from operational activities of ($1,547,160), and an after tax (deficit) of ($1,559,764). The tax component is calculated on ‘non-member’ or external income, largely from our income streams on invested funds.
The net present value of ‘available-for-sale financial assets’ (equity investments managed by the Veridian Finance Group, Asgard eWrap Investments) continued to increase in capital value on previous years for the BIA, now valued at $2,841,437 and provided investment income of $232,293 in 2025. Term Deposits of $3,250,000 are invested with the Commonwealth Bank, at circa 3.75%. Average Members funds are $6,285,068 as at December 2025, down on the previous year of $7,741,298 reflecting the deficit for 2025. The BIA continued to make the necessary financial decisions to maximise revenue opportunities and minimise costs, setting the foundations for a sound financial position in 2026.
Our overall Sales income for 2025 was $5,107,836 as against $6,579,150 in 2024. Our Show contribution towards income was $3,429,412. The 2025 Sydney International On-Water Boat Show traded well for exhibitors in 2025 and included a Discover Boating investment to promote boating as a standout recreational activity for the benefit of industry. Membership and core revenue streams increased in 2025, up from 2024, while our expenses were down in 2025 as against the previous year.
We created a provision for tax in the 2025 balance sheet. The overall tax liability held in the balance sheet reflects taxes on external income streams.
In 2025, the BIA retained key personnel and remains in a strong strategic and financial position to support its core objectives which are to: grow participation in recreational boating; deliver government advocacy; support marine jobs; and provide members with products and services.
Full Financial Reports of the BIA Ltd are available on the member portal and a link has been emailed to all members.
The Financial Report was prepared and presented in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporation Act 2001. BIA are required to report related party transactions between Directors and the businesses they are related to. This disclosure is reported as Note number 14 in Notes to the Financial Report (page 19). These transactions with Director-related companies were on an arm’s length basis and are all business-tobusiness transactions. Income and expenses derived from the related parties would have been the same had they not been related.
The related party transactions relate to membership subscription fees. Our Directors offer their time and support to improve, and develop the industry, and they receive no remuneration for this contribution.
The financial decisions the BIA made during the year were again, not easy. These were decisions to ensure our longevity, for next year and beyond. Our strategic mission and goals, on behalf of our members and the boating community, will continue to be achieved through support from our membership, our dedicated staff and direction from our Board.
INCOME
EXPENDITURE
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Other assets
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
NON-CURRENT ASSETS
Property, plant and equipment
Other financial assets
TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Trade and other payables
Employee entitlements provision
Deferred income
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accumulated
2 5 $ 3,500,436 563,754 247,806 4,311,996 194,667 2,841,437 28,710 3,151,847 7,463,843 318,655 99,125 650,357 9,758 1,107,878 1,178,775 6,285,068 956,349 5,328,719 6,285,068
5,317,666 522,144 145,553 5,985,363 215,243 2,737,904 33,559 3,145,766 9,131,129 112,809 125,449 702,508 263,690 1,254,921 1,389,831 7,741,298 852,815 6,888,483 7,741,298
