President’s message: April, 2026
While there is always much to be thankful for in life and in our profession, it is undeniable that the world is experiencing uncertain times. This inevitably has a flow on effect to the way we communicate in business and the importance of our role, as we saw all too well during the COVID years.
The recently released 2026 Global Communication Report highlights a quiet shift taking place across Corporate Communication.
The research from the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations, in partnership with IABC and Meltwater, highlights how political and social polarisation is reshaping corporate communication. The findings point to a more cautious, situational approach by organisations when speaking out about societal issues, alongside growing effects on employee morale and mental health.
At the same time, the role of communication within organisations continues to rise, with 91% of communication professionals reporting increased strategic importance. I encourage all our members to read the insights from the report.
What’s been happening at IABC NSW?
Now back to what I’m personally thankful for – you, and our IABC NSW members and guests!
Recently, we’ve held two terrific events attended in high numbers with lots of diverse engagement. I hope everyone enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with familiar faces and had the chance to meet some new people. Thank you everyone for coming along.
Our ‘2026 Comms Survival Guide’ was a full house with 60 registrants. Thanks to our expert panel – Lucy Newcomb, Libby Mudie and Natasha Brack – for the thought-provoking discussions.
Mione Collins, Natasha Brack, Lucy Newcomb, Libby Mudie and Hallie Donkin.
We also held a panel discussion that included IABC board directors and members with University of Sydney students – our-next generation of communication leaders. The discussion was wide-ranging covering the future of our profession in a world of AI, ever-changing channels and their shifting importance and evolving expectations on our role in business, journalism and as editors.
A sincere thank you to our hosts, Dr Benjamin Miller and to our panellists Mione Collins, Julie Nguyen, Kate Neilson and Camille Penrose for sharing their valuable expertise.
Pat Armstrong, Mione Collins, Julie Nguyen, Camille Penrose, Kate Neilson and Dr Benjamin Miller.
Finally, our Newcastle members held a fantastic session on Inclusive Communications with local expert Sam Rykers. Special thanks to our Newcastle-based IABC NSW Board Director Ali Al-Naseri for his ongoing commitment to building this highly engaged community of members and guests.
IABC Newcastle Comms Professionals with IABC NSW Board Director Ali Al-Naseri and Sam Rykers.
Book your tickets and pack your bags!
Join me and other IABC NSW Sydney members who are going to IABC Asia-Pacific Fusion Conference in Brisbane from 19-20 October . Following the theme ‘Lead What’s Next’, the conference will explore how communication experts are uniquely positioned to lead businesses and communities through rapid change.
The call for speakers is now open! This is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and share knowledge with communication professional across the APAC region.
Also, don’t forget about IABC World Conference from 14-16 June in Toronto, Canada. If you haven’t been to a World Conference, add it to your professional bucket list. This is a world-class event for our profession that you won’t want to miss.
Reach out to me any time at president@iabcnsw.com to discuss your member experience, or your suggestions. All feedback welcome.
See you at our next event.
Cheers,
Patrick Armstrong, IABC NSW President