The Australian Academy of Law comprises elected individuals of exceptional distinction in the discipline of law who are committed to the advancement of that discipline and to justice according to law in Australia.
The objects of the Academy are to:

• Advance the discipline of law;
• Establish scholarships and research grants;
• Promote excellence in legal scholarship, research, education, and the administration of justice;
• Promote law reform;
• Promote ethical conduct and professional responsibility;
• Enhance the understanding and observance of the rule of law;
• Provide a forum for collaboration and constructive debate amongst all branches of the legal community.

Membership is by invitation by the Board of Directors following nomination by an existing Fellow, together with a Seconder, and consideration and recommendation by the Membership Committee. Fellows are invited from the practising profession, from legal academia and from the judiciary to facilitate collaboration and constructive debate amongst all sections of the legal community. The Academy thereby provides a bridge between all sections of the legal community.

It is important that Fellows consider from time to time other distinguished lawyers who are suitable for nomination as a Fellow. All Fellows are encouraged to look broadly to nominate candidates and to consider candidates from diverse backgrounds. Nominations should be forwarded to the AAL Secretariat by 31 August each year. The AAL expects to elect new Fellows by the end of each calendar year.