The Association represented theatrical and cinematic employees, outdoor sports ground staff and many in the television industry. It was originally known as the Australian Federated Stage Employees' Association in 1910, and underwent name changes to become the Australian Federated Theatrical Employees' Association in 1912, the Federated Theatrical & Amusement Employees' Association in 1914, and finally the Australian Theatrical & Amusement Employees' Association in 1915. In 1992 it amalgamated with the Australian Journalists' Association and the Actors' and Announcers' Equity Association to form the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance.