Membership
ACT Branch Membership
Joining the AIIA keeps you at the forefront of international affairs with a diverse range of presentations on current events and thematic topics of global, regional, and Australian interest.
The ACT Branch hosts around 20 presentations annually. Our speakers include government and non-government policy makers, academics, business representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Branch Membership currently exceeds 200 members, and we actively encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and work and life experiences to join us. Our events offer a unique opportunity to network with like-minded professionals, stay informed about global trends, and gain valuable insights into Australia’s international perspective and foreign policy. We are keen to encourage students and young professionals to join.
Contact the AIIA ACT Branch
If you have an enquiry about membership please contact the branch at act.branch@internationalaffairs.org.au.
General Benefits
Membership fees effective September 2019
| Membership Tier | Details | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
Individual/Diplomatic
|
Membership for one individual or diplomatic representative. |
$160 | Join Now |
Family
|
Individual and spouse/partner membership. |
$200 | Join Now |
Senior
|
Membership for an individual over 60 yrs and not in full time employment. |
$110 | Join Now |
Senior Family
|
Membership for an individual and spouse/partner who are over 60 yrs and not in full time employment. |
$150 | Join Now |
Student – with AJIA
|
Individual full time student. Includes Australian Journal of International Affairs. |
$60 | Join Now |
Corporate/Diplomatic
|
Membership for Corporate entities such as government departments, business, diplomatic missions, etc. Entitles membership for up to five nominated representatives to attend an event. Should any of the nominated representatives be unable to attend an event, other staff members may take their place. |
$375 | Join Now |
Membership for an individual and spouse/partner who are over 60 yrs and not in full time employment.
Individual full time student. Includes Australian Journal of International Affairs.
Membership for Corporate entities such as government departments, business, diplomatic missions, etc. Entitles membership for up to five nominated representatives to attend an event. Should any of the nominated representatives be unable to attend an event, other staff members may take their place.
About Us
Branch History
The AIIA is an independent, non-profit, and apolitical national organisation dedicated to promoting informed discussion among Australians on international issues and their impact on the country. Since 1924, the AIIA has fulfilled this role with distinction.
The AIIA (ACT) Branch strives to play a key role in the community by sharing our passions and increasing awareness of international affairs through its events, publications, and community presence, while maintaining a neutral perspective.
On this page, you can download the Branch’s constitution and learn about the AIIA (ACT) Branch’s long history. Please visit the “Our People” tab to view the current serving members of the ACT Branch Council.
AIIA (ACT) Branch Constitution
Contact the AIIA ACT Branch
Address
32 Thesiger Court (PO Box 34) Deakin West, ACT 2600
General Inquiries
Phone Number
Follow Us on Social Media
Please note that the information above is ACT Branch. To contact the National Office of the AIIA, please click “About Us – Contact Us” above.
Our People
Office Holders
Councillors
Public Officer, External Liaison & Branch Administrator
Our History
Early Years - 1930s
The ACT Branch was formed in 1937 by AIIA members mainly from Victoria and NSW. They included Sir Robert Garran, Secretary of the Commonwealth Constitutional Convention and for many years Secretary of the Attorney-General’s Department; H.F.E. Whitlam, Commonwealth Crown Solicitor and father of the future Prime Minister, Gough Whitlam; the Anglican Bishop of Canberra and Goulburn, Ernest Burgman; Sir John Crawford, Secretary of the Department of Trade and future Vice Chancellor of ANU; Sir Kenneth Bailey the Commonwealth Solicitor General, and Leslie Bury who would become MP for Wentworth, Treasurer and Minister for Foreign Affairs among other ministerial appointments during the 1960s and 70s.
1940s-50s
World War II resulted in increased migration to Canberra from other states, and this was further boosted by the establishment of the Australian National University and the post-war Commonwealth Reconstruction Training Scheme, which provided scholarships for ex-servicemen and resulted in a significant number of students and graduates living in the city. By 1950 the ACT branch membership had risen to 50 which included a group from Yass led by the Town Clerk.
The Dyason Lectures, delivered annually, were a major event in the growing city with many distinguished speakers filling the Albert Hall, then Canberra’s premier venue, or the largest theatre at ANU. The series ended in 1981.
Many regular functions attracted considerable numbers and were often followed by receptions at what is now the Hyatt Hotel. There was one occasion when the then Acting Prime Minister arrived, uninvited and happily under the influence.
1960s
The 1960s saw the permanent relocation to Canberra of the Defence Forces headquarters and the social service Departments of the Commonwealth, resulting in a further rise in membership. The arrival of the Australian Defence Force Academy with its degree courses through the University of NSW provided another source of speakers to augment politicians, diplomats and ANU academics.
1980s to Now
In 1987 Stephen House was opened as the national headquarters of AIIA. The branch had contributed to the building fund and, after some consideration, decided to leave its rent-free facilities at the ANU to take up residence in the new building.
Membership currently stands at more than 200 and a student branch was formed at ANU during 2007. Members from other branches visiting Canberra are always made most welcome.
* Bob Byrnes was ACT Branch Secretary from 1949 to 1954 under the presidencies of H.F.E. Whitlam and Leslie Bury. He was made a life member of ACT Branch at the 2008 Annual General Meeting.
Annual General Meeting
ACT Branch Constitution
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