The following are a list of questions that are frequently asked about the UNAA. If your query is not answered below please email or phone the UNAA(WA) Honorary Secretary, who will be only too pleased to answer your query.
What is the United Nations Association of Australia (UNAA) and what connection does it have with the United Nations?
The UNAA promotes the aims and ideals of the United Nations by informing Australians about the work of the world organisation. It supports the government's commitment to the UN, promotes international links and organises programmes and activities for its members and the community. UNAA operates at national, state and territory levels and has offices throughout Australia. UNAA is a member of its umbrella organisation, the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA), which is based in New York. "WFUNA is an independent, non-governmental organization with Category One Consultative Status at the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and consultative or liaison links with many other UN organizations and agencies". As such, UNAA is not a formal part of the United Nations and does not represent the UN in any official capacity.
What does UNAA membership offer?
UNAA offers you the opportunity to be involved in the numerous issues that confront the United Nations and Australia. These include human rights, UN reform, conflict resolution, peacekeeping, greenhouse gases, humanitarian aid programmes, world trade issues and so on. Not only is Australia an active member of the United Nations, but the country's federal, state and territory laws are, in many cases, part of Australia's international obligations. UNAA gives you a chance to be heard.
Some of the key benefits of joining the UNAA:
- You can have a direct input into foreign policy debate
- You can help your state and federal parliamentarians, teachers and community leaders understand Australia's international responsibilities and obligations.
- You can be kept informed of UN-related events, conferences and special days.
What are the activities that I can get involved in as a UNAA member?
UNAA activities include conferences, special programmes on human rights, women's issue, environment, peace and UN reform. As UNAA only receives modest financial assistance from the government, fundraising is one activity that members can get involved in. From time to time, social events are organised for members and the community.
Can the UNAA get a job for me with the UN?
The UNAA cannot get you a job with the UN. You can find any advertised UN job on the internet at www.un.org. If you wish to see the variety and level of employment opportunities with the UN (including job classification, salary scales and daily subsistence allowances) you should access www.un.org/Depts/icsc.
How much does it cost to join UNAA?
Annual membership fees are as follows (WA Division only):
- Ordinary membership: $35.00
- Student membership: $20.00
- Family membership: $40.00
- Organisation membership: $45.00
Does the UNAA(WA) have a library?
Yes, we do. We have a comprehensive list of books,including UNGA records, magazines and newspaper articles on the UN and related social justice issues.
For more information on joining, see the membership page.