The Historic Houses Association of Australia was formed to raise awareness and support for important local and national properties. It began in Sydney in 1988, alongside the formation of the NSW Government’s Historic Houses Trust. It brought together the “friends” of some of Sydney’s most important buildings such as Elizabeth Bay House and Vaucluse House. In 2014, the association became national and fully independent of government and is now a registered charity, not-for-profit and volunteer organisation, with a growing national membership and reach. Our goal is to educate and inform the public through a series of tours and events, to support private owners and to build an environment in which historic properties and places are supported, valued and enjoyed. We provide a forum for owners along with resources and expert advice. We advocate on their behalf to government and educate the public through a dynamic range of events and activities. We also support research to understand the special issues faced by owners of historic properties. We welcome new owners and actively seek private and corporate supporters to protect and promote our shared national heritage.