The Australian Family Association describes itself as a voluntary, ecumenical, non party political organisation which has been formed to provide a forum and a vehicle for those individuals and organisations in the community concerned with the strengthening and support of the family. Founded over 25 years ago, the AFA is Australia's leading family advocacy group.

Organisation
There is a Federal Executive, with Branches in all States, each with a State Chairman, Secretary and Executive. Active groups within State Branches are based on Federal Electorates or suitable towns or regions. Each group has a Chairman and Convener and normally comprises 10 to 12 members. Briefing and resource material is provided through State's Secretaries.

Objectives

The objectives for which the Association is established are as follows:

(i) to cultivate within society an appreciation that the integrity and well being of the family is essential to the stability, morale, security and prosperity of the Australian nation;

(ii) to analyze laws and policies for their effect on the family and to formulate and promote corrective measures as necessary;

(iii) to support initiatives taken by other individuals and organisations in support of the traditional family;

(iv) by means of conferences, seminars and the active involvement of individuals and groups, to create public awareness of the fundamental importance of the family unit;

(v) to facilitate research and act as a resource centre for the effective pursuit of the Association's objectives;

(vi) to facilitate programs in family education;

(vii) to promote and encourage the development of services to assist families in difficulties; and

(viii) to do all such things as are incidental or conducive to the attainment of the above objectives.

AFA Patrons

Founder: Mr B.A. Santamaria, M.A., LL.B.

Hon. Kim Beazley Snr, A.O., M.A.Hons., F.A.C.E., Hon.D.Litt. (Sydney & WA) LL.D. (A.N.U) Minister for Education 1972-75

Professor Rupert Goodman, A.M., B.A., Dip.Ed. ( Hons.), B.Ed., Ph.D., F.A.C.E., Former Reader in Education, University of Queensland.

Dr Clair Isbister, C.B.E., M.B., B.S., F.R.A.C.P., D.C.H. (Lond.) Consultant Pediatrician.

Major General W.B 'Digger' James, A.C. A.O., M.B.E., M.C., M.B.B.S (Syd.) F.R.A.C.S.

Dr. T.B. Lynch, A.O., M.B., B.S., F.R.A.C.P. Rockhampton

Dame Elizabeth Murdoch, A.C. D.B.E., Hon. LL.D. Formerly President, Committee of Management, Royal Children's Hospital, 1954-65; Life Governor Royal Women's Hospital Melbourne.

Lady Scholtens Former National President Catholic Women's League, Canberra

Judge Frank Walsh, LL.B., Q.C., Judge of the County Court.

Emeritus Prof. Jerzyzubrzycki, A.O., C.B.E., M.B.E. (Mily.), F.A.S.A. Former Professor of Sociology, Australian National University.

Dr John I Fleming, B.A., ThL. (Hons.), PhD.(Griffith)