THE SRI LANKA ASSOCIATION OF NEW SOUTH WALES INC (SLA) was established in 1973 with many objectives to represent the interests of the Sri Lankan
migrant community in NSW Australia. The SLA prides itself as the only such association in NSW representing the interests of all Sri Lankans despite their ethnic or religious backgrounds. The Federal and State Governments of Australia also recognise SLA as the main advocate for all affairs concerning the local Sri Lankan migrant community and the political and economic interests of Sri Lanka as whole. 

The constitute of SLA stipulates its purpose of existence. Accordingly, SLA provides a common meeting ground for persons of Sri Lankan origin and promotes integration with the wider Australian while maintaining the values and the identity of their unique heritage.

The association promotes and perpetuates the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka amongst in the Australian community. It represents the interests of the Sri Lankan migrant community and that of Sri Lanka at all levels of Australian Government. Either by itself or in collaboration with the other organisations, SLA works towards the advancement of Sri Lankans and Australians of Sri Lankan descent in New South Wales within all levels of the Australian society.

SLA advances the social cohesion and harmony among the Sri Lankan community within the framework of a united and democratic Sri Lanka and work towards the perception of the integrity of Sri Lanka as a nation. It reaches out to the new migrants from Sri Lanka and assists them in the process of settlement at various levels.

Fund raising activities are organised at various levels to assist the Australian communities and the citizens of Sri Lanka at the hours of their need. SLA works with other Sri Lankan and non-Sri-Lankan community organisations to work collaboratively to achieve bigger and better outcomes for all.

The constitution stipulates that SLA establishes a trust fund or funds to assist persons of Sri Lankan origin in Australia or in Sri Lanka in their needs generally. It
also specifies the need to form nursing homes/hostels/retirement homes, together with ancillary facilities or religious centres for the benefit of the Sri Lankan community of NSW.