The Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA) is a movement centred on Jesus Christ, focused on His Kingdom and Mission. Founded in 1887 at Old Orchard, Maine, USA, by Dr. Albert B. Simpson, a Canadian-born Presbyterian minister, the C&MA was originally established as an evangelical foreign missionary organisation that received support from an alliance of Christians from several denominations and nationalities.
The deep expression of Simpson’s heart was revealed when he wrote:
"To the regions beyond I must go, I must go. Where the story has never been told. To the millions that have never heard of His love, I must tell the sweet story of old."
This experience was at the heart of Simpson's "Fourfold Gospel", the Alliance’s emphasis on the believer's relationship with Christ as Saviour, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King, and sparked what was to become the Christian and Missionary Alliance of today.
In Australia, the Alliance is a multi-ethnic movement with more than 80 congregations in most states and territories. Internationally, there are about 22,000 churches in 88 countries with more than 6 million Christians worshipping in Alliance churches worldwide.
The Christian and Missionary Alliance of Australia established the Alliance College of Theology in 1970 to equip men and women for both mission work and local church ministry, embracing the conviction that vibrant local churches naturally become sending churches.
Early Development and Growth: The college initially delivered theological education through extension programs. This approach expanded in 1974 with the establishment of a dedicated college centre in Canberra, followed by the acquisition of permanent premises in Waramanga, ACT, in 1977. The college achieved its first formal accreditation in 1992 when the Australian Capital Territory Accreditation and Registration Council recognised its courses and later secured accreditation for its Bachelor of Theology degree through the Sydney College of Divinity (SCD) in November 1999.
Strategic Restructuring: Following a comprehensive review by the National Board in 2006, the college underwent significant transformation. The board directed a withdrawal from SCD membership in favour of developing a dual-track approach combining formal qualifications with leadership development. This shift led to a strategic partnership with the Australian College of Ministries, enabling the college to offer government-accredited ministry courses (Certificate IV and Diploma in Christian Ministry and Theology). The college began establishing local teaching centres in partnership with Alliance churches to address specific training needs within their communities.
Modern Evolution: Recognising the growing demand for degree-level training, the college expanded its ACOM partnership in 2011 to include higher education programs. This collaboration culminated in 2016 when the C&MA of Australia became a formal ACOM member, facilitating the creation of the Alliance Institute for Mission and the establishment of a Master of Intercultural Ministry. In 2017, the college transitioned to operate under this new identity, marking a new chapter in its educational mission.