AWISA was formed in 1986 by the principal suppliers to the Australian woodworking industry. The main aims of the association are to present industry exhibitions, publish industry magazines, co-operate with other organisations in the woodworking industry, and to uphold the highest ethical standards and to encourage members to do the same.

Membership applications are welcome from Australian based companies, and from overseas companies with Australian agents and distributors that are also members of AWISA. Members of AWISA include suppliers of woodworking machinery, cabinet and furniture hardware, panel products and surface materials, portable tools, computer software, materials handling equipment, dust extraction equipment, components, and general plant and safety equipment.