The AAMA takes care to avoid duplication with industry associations or with existing research programs. As well as the roles outlined on other AAMA web pages, the AAMA exists to facilitate existing work and to provide a bridging function between disparate activities in the realm of maritime resources and interests.

AAMA has now become an important forum for, and contributor to, the national debate on maritime issues; it has gained a significant reputation for its work. It continues to move steadily towards achieving a status comparable with leading private research institutions in Britain, the United States and elsewhere overseas.