Our specific objectives are to support and promote stem cell research and encourage scientific exchange within the region, and to provide all interested parties, including the general public, with the opportunity to access information relating to scientific, medical and ethical advances in the broad field of stem cell research.

The Society was established by Stem cell scientists from Australia and New Zealand during the 2007 International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) Conference, held in Cairns, Australia. Around 40 stem cell scientists from around Australia and New Zealand voted overwhelmingly in favour. A steering committee of representative scientists throughout Australia and New Zealand consolidated the aims and rules of the society. The ASSCR became an Incorporated Association registered in Victoria, Australia in January 2008.

The society has now over 250 scientists, including numerous early career researchers representing all Australian states and NZ. We are actively involved in numerous projects promoting stem cell research, including Public Forums, Early Career Symposiums, partnerships with other professional societies and Australasian-based initiatives.