The AIMPE represents engineers in coastal shipping, the offshore oil and gas industries, towing and dredging.

[citation needed] Even with the demise of the Australian maritime industry, there are now more members registered with the Institute than at any other time.

The AIMPE official website recognises the conflict of interest it has, that marine engineers have, "endeavoured to find a commonality of interest with their employers" in "a world where capitalist efficiency could lead to excesses against which workers felt it necessary to protect themselves by combining for fair wages and conditions."

The AIMPE has historically been divided between a professional organisation supporting the bosses (much like APESMA), while also having the anti-boss "Not for one but for all" mentality of a trade union.

[citation needed] The AIMPE began as a craft union, using a monopoly on skill to bargain with employers.