Dear AAA Family and Friends,
2020 is proving to be a challenging year. From the Australian bushfires and now the outbreak of the coronavirus, we are being tested in unprecedented ways.
However, if I know one thing about Americans and Aussies, it is that we are a resilient bunch. We will bounce back stronger than ever but in the midst of this global pandemic I wanted to reach out personally to provide you with an update from the American Australian Association (AAA).
The AAA has been closely monitoring the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Your safety, and that of the wider AAA family is of paramount concern to our organization.
In recent weeks, as the severity of the outbreak has become clear, I have directed my staff to take action to ensure our collective safety and security until the worst of the COVID-19 outbreak passes. I am truly grateful that together we are able to manage a complex situation in a calm and measured way.
Today, I wanted to personally reach out to you to advise you of the steps we have taken in line with the best medical advice from the United States and Australian authorities:
The AAA Office on 50 Broadway is temporarily closed
In recent weeks we have tested our remote working capabilities and all AAA staff will be using these until further notice. You will still be able to contact AAA staff via e-mail and phone.
All AAA events for the next 30 days have been canceled
We are currently examining options to host events online over the coming weeks and months. In this uncertain time, rather than shutting down events completely, we have a duty to use our platform and membership to provide information on pressing bilateral issues, including the response to COVID-19. Please monitor the AAA website for more.
I do not take these measures lightly but the safety and health of the community must be our number one concern. We would like to thank all of our partners, sponsors and supporters for their patience while we work through this unprecedented, complex and evolving situation.
If you would like any further information on the above, please do not hesitate to contact me or my team.
For more information on the COVID-19 outbreak, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States or the Australian Government Department of Health in Australia.
Please know that the AAA is taking this situation seriously. On behalf of the entire AAA team, please stay safe and follow the advice of your local medical authorities.
Yours Sincerely,
John Berry
President, American Australian Association
