The Association of Practical Theology in Oceania (APTO) began in 2004 when a number of Australian and New Zealand members of the International Association of Practical Theology met at Australian Catholic University (Brisbane) with a view to founding a professional association for practical theologians in the Oceania region.

Foundation members of APTO were Brian Kelty, the first president of APTO, Gerard Hall, Ann Tuohy, Damien Casey and David Pascoe and Mary Eastman. The Association quickly grew as practical theologians from New Zealand, the islands of Oceania and Australia were invited to join APTO.