The Australian Anthropological Society emerged in 1973 as an independent association oriented toward a professional constituency and concerns after the prior establishment of Australian branches of UK-based academic societies and a number of state-based associations oriented toward the educated public. It has evolved in line with a mandate to professionalize the discipline in Australia. These professionalizing developments have included elaboration of its executive, publishing of a flagship journal and other media, enhancement of its web presence, and increasing internationalization through such means as participation in joint annual conferences with other national and international associations.