A Statement of Purpose of the ASA

The Astronomical Society of Australia (ASA) is the professional organisation of astronomers in Australia. The aim of the ASA is to promote the advancement of astronomy and closely related fields, especially in Australia, support the training of young astronomers, foster the public understanding of astronomy, and represent the interests of its members.

ASA is the clearly recognised representative of the community (the membership). As such it is distinct from the NCA (National Committee for Astronomy) which formally represents Australian astronomy at the international level and AAL (Australian Astronomy Limited) which manages programs providing access to national optical/infrared and radio astronomy infrastructure.

The ASA seeks to

• represent the interests of its members, individually and collectively
• support students and early career astronomers
• promote equity, diversity and inclusion in astronomy
• provide a community and forum for its members, independent of their employers
• convey the excitement and importance of astronomy to the public
• encourage the activities of the amateur astronomy community
• recognise achievement and service to the Australian astronomical community

The importance of the ASA to its members is summarised in the Benefits of ASA Membership.