Our History

For more than 35 years, Professional Speakers Australia has gathered, up-skilled and represented Australia’s leading professional speakers. What started as two small groups meeting over drinks at the local pub has grown into a nation-wide, thriving and vibrant community.

Inspired by the National Speakers Association in the USA, the founding members were eager to see a similar body developed in Australia that would benefit members individually, as well as help to advance the wider speaking industry.

1986 – The NSW Chapter, convened by John Nevin and the Victoria Chapter, convened by Gary Glenn, were both formed at meetings in October 1986, and formally commenced in January 1987.

1987 – The Queensland Chapter commenced in 1987. After a brief recess it recommenced in 1993.

1993 – The ACT Chapter is launched, co-founded by Ann Villiers and Kerry Nairn with support from the NSW Chapter.

1994 – The South Australian Chapter commenced under the leadership of David Griggs PM, with the zeal of Robyn Henderson CSP as driver and supporter. In the same year, also with Robyn’s support the West Australian Chapter launched under the leadership of David Julian Price (CSP)

2015 – The association changed its name from National Speakers Association of Australia to Professional Speakers Australia.