Events and Networking

With around 1100 members working across all sectors of the industry Australia-wide, membership0 of the AIAST will expand your professional networking; enhance knowledge sharing through workshops & State Division events; and provides social contact opportunities for geographically dispersed members.

• Events - update your skills through conferences and workshops conducted at regional and capital city locations and receive discounted registration fees.
• Networking - expand your professional contacts by becoming part of national and local networks with around 1100 professionals.
• State Divisions - participate in Division meetings and networking events and functions.
• Special Interest Groups - join the specialist consultants group AAAC* (Australian Association of Agricultural Consultants) or one of a number of Special Interest Groups.
  *Must be a financial member of the AIAST to apply for AAAC membership.

Communication

• Weekly Alert - a weekly newsletter of industry issues, events & opportunities sent via email to members.
• Agricultural Science Journal - complimentary subscription to the official scientific journal of the AIAST.
• Website - access to the Members Only section of the website.
• CSIRO Online Journal Subscriptions - discounted rates are available to AIAST members.

Advocacy

Never has agriculture needed a strong, informed and balanced voice as it does today.  With around 1100 members nationally, their ideas and feedback allows the AIAST to contribute a balanced perspective to government on important and topical issues.  As a member you can participate in the development of policies affecting agriculture and natural resource management.

AIAST also continues to make important contributions to public policy and to the debate on key issues such as:

• The need for increased agricultural training at all levels,
• The future of agricultural RD&E in Australia.
• Genomics and the place of GM's.
• Regional Communication.
• Bio-security in Australia.
• Farmer response to Climate Change and Food Security.

In all of these AIAST provides a scientific, objective approach.

• Representation - represent members and colleagues on Board, Divisions, Committees and Special Interest Groups.

Recognition and Education

• Code of Ethics - enhance your reputation by adopting the AIAST Code of Ethics.
• Industry Credentials - develop your skills base and become recognised through one of the professional accreditation programs offered - CPAg, AgCredited and EnviroCredited.

Awards (for conditions see the AIAST By-Laws)

• Medal of Agriculture - recognises members who have made outstanding, specific contributions to the advancement of Agriculture and Natural Resource Management.
• Fellowship - recognises members who have served the Institute and the profession with eminence and dedication.
• Young Professionals in Agriculture - recognises outstanding achievement of young professionals (under 35) in agri-industry.

Financial

Journal subscription, event registration and membership fees may be tax deductible.  Please consult your accountant or taxation consultant.

• Risk Management - Minimise your consulting risk through the AIAST Group Professional Indemnity Insurance Scheme and receive competitive and discounted rates.
• Discounted rates for online CSIRO journal subscriptions.