South Australiam doctors have been pioneers in the creation of a strong and united association representing the nation's medical profession. The Australian Medical Association (South Australia) Inc is the oldest association in Australia, having been formed in 1879, initially as a branch of the British Medical Association. Through its continued efforts, the South Australian branch urged the establishment of a national organisation, eventuating in the inauguration of the Australian Medical Association in Adelaide in May 1962.

As a national organisation, the AMA functions in a representative, democratic manner. When members join the AMA(SA), they automatically become members of the Federal Body, and subscription fees are inclusive of this dual representation.

Although state branches are run independently of the federal body, their constitutions are interlocking – for the protected interests of AMA members at both the state and federal level. The AMA(SA) has also followed its Federal counterpart’s lead in establishing craft groups, negotiating with State Government on issues of interest to its members.