The umbrella body was incorporated in 1965, with member organisations in every state and territory of Australia.

Modelled on the National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty and inspired by local campaigns to conserve native bushland and preserve old buildings, the first Australian National Trusts were formed in New South Wales in 1945, South Australia in 1955 and Victoria in 1956; followed later in Western Australia, Tasmania and Queensland.

The driving force behind the establishment of the National Trust in Australia was Annie Forsyth Wyatt (1885–1961).

She lived for much of her life in a cottage in Gordon, New South Wales, which is still standing.

The distinctive building, which retains its appearance from the time of its conversion to a school in 1849, is visible from the approaches to the Sydney Harbour Bridge.