The objectives of the Association which was formed in 1968, are the general promotion of suburban newspapers, joint co-operation and consultation on industrial matters and forum for exchange of ideas. The Association is governed by a Federal Executive which comprises of representatives from each State. The current President of A.S.N.A. is Mr John Engisch of Torch Publishing Co. A.S.N.A. has two divisions; the Northern Division (New South Wales) and the Southern Division (Victoria and Tasmania). A.S.N.A. conducts national annual seminars and presentation of national awards for suburban newspaper excellence. The seminars, which rotate between Melbourne and Sydney, are held in August of each year with the annual dinner and awards night being held at the conclusion of the seminar. Annual awards are also held at Divisional level. The Association conducts training courses which include a Sub-Editing course, a Media Law course and an investigative Journalism course.