The Australian Institute of Polish Affairs (AIPA) is an independent, voluntary, non-political organization founded in 1991 in Melbourne.

AIPA operates nationally, but its key centres are in Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra. Its principal functions are performed voluntarily, and its main source of income derives from membership fees.

The Institute welcomes all who are interested in deepening their understanding of Polish culture, politics, economy, and society. AIPA’s program of activities has contributed to advancing knowledge about Poland while enhancing Poland’s profile within Australia and promoting interest in Polish matters.

AIPA seeks to advance knowledge about Poland in Australia by inviting and organizing meetings with expert speakers, both Polish and Australian.

Since its inception, AIPA has invited over 40 international guests and organized over 50 public meetings, lectures, academic sessions, book launches, and commemorative events. Our guests have included such influential figures as Jan Karski (the heroic war envoy who brought news of the Holocaust to the world), Bronisław Geremek (historian, Solidarity advisor, parliamentary leader and Minister of Foreign Affairs (1997–2000)), a world known historian Professor Norman Davies, Krzysztof Zanussi (film director), and Leszek Balcerowicz (distinguished economist, architect of Poland’s postcommunist economic reforms, and Minister of Finance in Tadeusz Mazowiecki’s first non-communist government (1989-1991)).