The UNAA official mission is "to inform, inspire and engage all Australians regarding the work, goals and values of the UN to create a safer, fairer and more sustainable world".

The UNAA also works to support various initiatives of the United Nations which focus on key international affairs topics such as (but not exclusive to): The UNAA hosts over 150 events a year across Australia; hosts public awards ceremonies on a variety of social, media, and environmental topics; drives celebratory UN observance day activities; operates development projects overseas and generally acts as a key link between the UN and the Australian public.

The debate achieved prominence in the media owing to an address by journalist Stan Grant on "racism and the Australian Dream".

The award recognises "individuals or organisations in Australia that have made a significant contribution to the aims and objectives of the UN, for example in promoting peace, respect for human rights, equal opportunities, social justice and environmental sustainability".

[21] Recipients include: The UNAA’s Victorian division hosts student Model United Nations (MUN) Conferences in high schools and universities around the state.

These day-long conferences aim to increase student awareness of the United Nations, its processes, values, and the complex issues brought before the UN and the international community, while developing a sense of civic responsibility as future global citizens.