Although specialist endodontists have been closely involved in the activities of the Australian Society of Endodontology (ASE) and in the overall development of endodontics in Australia, many dentists probably have little knowledge of the existence or activities of ANZAE, the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Endodontists.

The Australian Endodontic Specialists Group, as it was originally known, began in the 1970's as an informal gathering of endodontists under the umbrella of the ASE. The group held its first scientific meeting in 1986 and by the late 80's it became clear that there were sufficient numbers and interest to form a professional group; independent, yet still closely allied with the ASE. After several years under a guiding committee, a foudnation meeting took place in 1993 at which the Australian Academy of Endodontists was officially formed; in 1995, it became the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Endodontists.

After a decade as an independent professional body, there are now more than 80 full members in the ANZAE. During this time, the executive of the ANZAE has rotated around the states, in much the same way as the operation of the ASE. Those that have served as President and Secretary would be well known to most dentists. The inaugural. President and Secretary were Geoff Heithersay and the late John Booth (SA), followed by Paul Fitzwalter and Luke Moloney (Vic), Alex Moule and John McNamara (Qld), Paul Heijkoop and Ian Trantor (SA).