How to join
Freemasonry is a rewarding experience and membership is open to all men aged 18 years or over. Like many membership organisations, there are certain prerequisites that potential members must satisfy when applying to be a Freemason. To become a Freemason a person needs to:
- Be a Law abiding person;
- Have a belief in a Supreme Being; and
- Have made his decision to join Freemasonry by his own free will and not for any personal gain or reasons of idle curiosity.
As Freemasonry offers many unique benefits, these prerequisites ensure that those who join get the most out of becoming a Freemason.
If you satisfy these requirements and are interested in joining Freemasonry, there are two ways in which you can apply to become a Freemason.
Approach a Freemason you know
If you know a Freemason, approach him and inform him of your desire to join. After discussing your intentions, he would probably become your ‘nominator’ and make arrangements for you to become a member of his Lodge (Masonic meeting group).
Approach the United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT
If you do not know any Freemasons, you are welcome to approach the United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT, which is the governing body of Freemasonry in these areas. If you are interested in joining you should contact the Membership Co-ordinator and you will be informed of the necessary steps you need to take to become a Freemason. Through this process – known as the Membership Assistance Scheme (MAS) – you will be asked to attend a preliminary interview with a representative of the United Grand Lodge before you meet with members of the Lodge you may join.
The Interview Process
Once this process has started you will be required to attend an interview and certain questions will be asked pertaining to your application. This is a standard procedure and gives any potential member an opportunity to meet with members of the Lodge and ask any questions he may have about Freemasonry. Provided that you and the Lodge are satisfied with the interview, a date would then be arranged for your admission into Freemasonry.
Expectations of Members
Having joined Freemasonry there are several criteria that are to be respected by members. As Freemasons come from all walks of life, members are expected to interact with each other free from religious or racial prejudice.
Freemasonry is neither a religion, nor is it intended to be a substitute for religion.
Its philosophy is designed to encourage its members toward self improvement.
Members are encouraged to support Masonic Charities which perform valuable services throughout NSW and the ACT.
A Freemason is required to pay annual membership fees to his Lodge and to the United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT. A joining fee is also charged by most Lodges. The average yearly cost to members varies between Lodges however the fees are explained to potential members before joining.
Information Pack
To obtain an information pack on Freemasonry please call the United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT on 1800 803 354 or email info@masons.org.au.