The Institute had its genesis in 1893 with the formation in Adelaide of the Australasian Institute of Mining Engineers drawing its inspiration from the success of the American Institute of Mining Engineers, and some impetus from the Mine Managers Association of Broken Hill. Office-holders were equally from South Australia and "The Hill", where the Institute established its headquarters.
This approach to the foundation of a federal organization was welcomed in mining districts of other Australian colonies. and branches were formed in Broken Hill, the Thames Goldfield (New Zealand), Ballarat, and elsewhere. Succeeding annual conferences were held at Ballarat, Hobart, Broken Hill and other mining centres. The 1926 conference was held in Otago, New Zealand.
In 1896 its headquarters were removed from Broken Hill to Melbourne, and in June 1919 adopted its present name.
In 1954 the institute applied for a royal charter, granted 1955.
The AusIMM represents more than 15 500 members drawn from all sections of the industry and supported by a network of branches and societies in Australasia and internationally.