The Australian Association of Special Education was inaugurated in late 1975 when representatives of State special education groups met and agreed to form a federation to pursue their aims at a national level. The Association has pursued its objectives through its constitutional and organizational structure since that time. On occasions, progress has been rapid and exciting in its scope and potential. By contrast, there have also been periods of consolidation, of hesitancy, and of frustration. Perhaps one of the most frustrating aspects of AASE has been its inability to have its council delegates meet frequently enough to provide the basis for discussion at a level which assists consensus, and precipitates progress.