Launched in 2014, shortly after the closure of the Adult Industry Medical Health Care Foundation (AIM), the organization released a video called Porn 101 containing advice for new and established pornographic performers.

APAC operates a mentor scheme and maintains resources for people starting pornographic acting, as well as hosting panels, releasing statements and lobbying.

A founding member of the group, James Deen, resigned from his roles in 2015 after a series of sexual assault and rape allegations against him, involving actions both in his personal relationships and on-screen performing.

The 2018 chair, Ginger Banks, resigned after her initial response to a scene in which her co-star raised concerns about the behaviour of John Stagliano caused backlash and harassment.

After the allegations were made public, first by Stoya, Deen stood down from his roles in APAC, who released a statement saying "we stand with performers and other sex workers who are victims of any sort of sexual assault".

Aurora Snow, writing in The Daily Beast, commented: "It may prove difficult for women ... to turn to an organization now headed by Deen's current partner, but Preston is not to blame for this.

[7] In early 2018, chairperson Tasha Reign told The Washington Post that she aimed for all pornographic workers to receive training, including directors and producers, and that the Me Too movement made her "more empowered" in speaking freely.

[11][12][13] Banks later filed a report of sexual battery and apologized to Blighe both privately and publicly, saying in 2020, "I should be held accountable for my part in the gaslighting and denying her reality".

[18] APAC hosts panels on sex work, maintains directories of resources for performers, and releases statements on behalf of its members on issues that arise within the industry.

[4] A 2021 resource produced collaboratively with the Free Speech Coalition (FSC) outlines options for conflict resolution and responding to negative incidents on pornographic sets.