From memory the aim of AOPA was to represent members rights to fly responsibly without unnecessary costs or regulations. It would appear any DAS having a membership would be not only be an error of judgment but given the aim of CAsA is constantly at odds with that mission statement, one would feel it was inappropriate.
Past experience of AOPA being a compliant Arm of that regulator appears to have ended now they are doing what they were supposed to do. Represent their members interests. Maybe now they may get a membership increase with an assertive President who is not prepared to cop their $hit any more.
Some of you blokes are precious.