The Academy was founded in 1954 by Australian Fellows of the Royal Society of London. It was established under a Royal Charter as an independent body but with government endorsement. The Academy's Constitution was modelled on that of the Royal Society of London. It receives government grants for its activities but has no statutory obligation to government. The objects of the Academy are to promote science through a range of activities, including: recognition of outstanding contributions to science; education and public awareness; science policy; international relations; and science and industry. The Fellowship of the Academy is made up of about 300 of Australia's top scientists, distinguished in the physical and biological sciences and their applications.

President:
Dr. Kurt Lambeck

Foreign Secretary/Secretary General:
Professor Jenny Graves (FS)
Email: jenny.graves@science.org.au

IAP Contact Person:
Dr. Sue Meek
Executive Secretary

Ms. Nancy Pritchard
International Programme Officer
E-mail:  nancy.pritchard@science.org.au