What is Freemasonry?

Ask any of the 15,000 Freemasons in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory this question, and you’ll probably get 15,000 different answers!

Freemasonry means different things to each member.

Some would say it’s a personal development program which promotes family and community values.

Others would describe Freemasonry as a chance for both social interaction and "philosophical brainstorming".

Freemasonry also provides an opportunity for public service, and hands-on involvement in charitable or community issues.

The short answer to the question, "What is Freemasonry" is that it’s one of the world’s oldest and largest fraternal organisations.

Made up of 5 million Freemasons around the world, it has adopted the fundamental principles of integrity, goodwill, and charity as foundations for an individual’s life and character.

So, a Freemason strives to be moral and ethical.

He strives to show justice, act honourably, and be loyal.

A Freemason teaches and practices concern for people.

He cares for the less fortunate, and helps those in need.

And all this is done irrespective of cultural or ethnic background.

Irrespective of religious beliefs.

And irrespective of any differences in social standing or education.