Toy Libraries Australia Inc

Toy Libraries Australia (TLA) is the national peak body representing over 290 of Australia's 387 toy libraries. Established in 1977, TLA supports a network where 175,000 people borrow from toy libraries each year, collectively circulating over 400,000 toys worth more than $15 million. In an era where 196,000 tonnes of toys are imported annually — with 51% ending up in landfill within 12 months — TLA promotes the "borrow don't buy" mindset.

As a peak body, TLA coordinates an entire sector. Twenty-nine membership tiers cover individual toy libraries, state associations, council-run libraries, commercial operators, and individual supporters. TLA runs training programs, assists in starting new libraries, and coordinates national advocacy across a geographically dispersed volunteer network.

TidyHQ manages TLA's full peak body operation. Twenty-nine membership tiers handle everything. Xero gives clean financials. Slack connects the board for real-time coordination. Zoom streamlines virtual meetings and training. Mailchimp keeps the full network informed about grants, training, and National Toy Library Week. Events and meetings track the governance calendar.

Volunteer time is finite. Toy Libraries Australia Inc now spends it where it matters — on their members, not on admin.

• 4+ — years running on TidyHQ
• 29 — membership tiers — from individual libraries to state bodies
• 290+ — toy libraries represented nationally

Members renew online and register for events through the same platform. The committee spends less time on logistics and more time building the community.