The Australian Institute of Navigation Inc. was established in 1949. Its objects are to unite in one body those who are concerned with or who are interested in the science, practice and development of Navigation. In this context the term "navigation" covers motion of all kinds as well as command and control. It embraces subjects traditionally associated with navigation such as astronomy, mathematics, cartography, electronics and information technology.
The Institute has enjoyed Vice Regal patronage since 1958. The present Patron is His Excellency The Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia.
The aims of the Institute are to encourage the dissemination of knowledge and to coordinate information from all the disciplines involved, and to provide a forum in which new ideas and new products can have the benefit of informed and professional scrutiny. A central feature of the Institute's activities is that they remain devoid of any political, industrial or commercial influences.
The Institute publishes a quarterly Newsletter which, amongst other things, contains papers which have been presented at General Meetings. Selected material from Special Interest Groups is reproduced for the benefit of members.
General Meetings of Members are held in Sydney on a monthly basis (second Wednesday of each month). Guest speakers present papers on a wide variety of subjects at these meetings. All members and guests are welcome at General Meetings -- there is no charge for attendance. General Meetings in other areas outside of Sydney are also arranged from time to time.
That part of the Institute's work which is international in character is coordinated with similar organisations in other countries through the International Association of Institutes of Navigation (IAIN). The IAIN is represented on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
The Institute makes annual awards to selected outstanding students at the Royal Australian Air Force School of Navigation, the Australian Maritime College and the School of Aviation of the University of Newcastle.
The Institute's affairs are overseen by an elected President, Office Bearers and members of Council, which is supplemented by ex-officio representatives from the RAN and RAAF. A Technical Sub-Committee handles all matters of a tehnical nature. Matters of administration are handled by the Directorate of The Chartered Institute of Transport in Australia Inc.