Established in 1988 by three outstanding physicians (Cecil Cass, Ron Quirk, and Brendan Dooley), the Australian Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society was created after the physicians saw a need for such a society within Australia. The need for the Australian Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) arose as a result of the necessity for a sophisticated and more scientific approach to the treatment of foot and ankle problems.

Over the years, AOFAS has organised annual scientific meetings where a broad spectrum of overseas speakers have been in attendance, boosting the society's reputation in the international community. Interest amongst trainees and fellows in the field has additionally increased.

Through the formation of the society, tremendous improvements have been made and implemented regarding the treatment of foot and ankle problems. The field has witnessed increased funding for research as well as the achievement of innovative treatment procedures.