The DIA is the organisation through which designers work for the future of the design professions in Australia.

Strategic planning for the DIA and the design professions is the role of the National Council. The National Council is made up of representatives of the six state branches.

To ensure that the DIA is recognised as a dynamic body representing designers in Australia by promoting the highest ethical and professional standards through education, information and event management.

To promote and assist the effective excellence, political influence, and co-operative spirit of the Australian design professions and enhance their relevance to Government, business and society.

To support the Vision, the key roles of the DIA are to:

1. Promote excellence in the professional design industry through education and professional development;
2. Provide timely, relevant and targeted information and support services to members and, where appropriate, government and the community;
3. Conduct research and formulate policies that affect present and future directions of activity;
4. Uphold the input value of design in the national framework of business and the community;
5. Represent the views and interests of the design profession to government, regulatory bodies, business, education, and the community;
6. Maintain and enforce a members’ code of professional and ethical conduct;
7. Develop and maintain strategic alliances with similar organisations overseas to further the interests and roles of the DIA;
8. Provide event management services for the promotion of design excellence in the different sectors of the industry.

The DIA’s Strategic Plan organises the efforts of the organisation under six strategic areas.

1. Management
   Leadership, Organisation, Resources, Finance, Sponsorship
2. Education and Professional Development
   Excellence, CPD, Accreditation, University and TAFE Connections
3. Information and Membership Services
   Publications, Communication, Web, Referral Service, Employment Service, Practice Notes, Branch Administration
4. Representation, Influence and Commercial Services
   Government, Society, Industry, Overseas Relationships, Past Presidents, Event Management
5. Ethics and Professional Standards
   Code of Conduct, Corporate, Governance/Compliance, National Recognition
6. Membership
   Student Membership, Membership Standards, Practice Groups and Networks, Business and Institutional Membership, Commercial Practice Development