Apply to incorporate an association

Incorporated associations have a legal entity separate from their members and usually suit community-based groups as an alternative to other state-based company structures, such as a co-operative.

They are not-for-profit organisations and don't engage in trade or commerce unless approved by the Corporate Affairs Commission, which is administered by Consumer and Business Services (CBS).

A wide range of associations are eligible for incorporation, but they must benefit the community.

How to incorporate (PDF 284 KB) has a comprehensive list of eligible purpose categories on page two.

Check if an association is incorporated

You can search to see if an association is already incorporated.

Search now

To incorporate an association you'll need to upload a copy of:

Before you begin

The name of the association must be the same as shown in the rules.

Application fee:  $228.00

Before you begin

Please read the guidelines on how to incorporate (PDF 284 KB)

Committee

Your committee members must have:

  • authorised someone to complete and lodge the application
  • approved the name of the association
  • assigned a public officer
  • approved the association's rules.

The association's name

The name should reflect the nature and purpose of the association. The name can't be:

  • the same as a name reserved or registered under the Corporations Act 2001
  • easily mistaken for another incorporated association
  • the same as a registered business or likely mistaken for one
  • undesirable or offensive to the public
  • suggestive of any connection with government.

List of restricted and undesirable names for associations - Government Gazette

Reserve a name

You may reserve your association's name if you need extra time to collect the evidence needed for the application.

Fee: $161.00

Reserve a name

Changing the name

An alteration to the name of the incorporated association isn't official until it's approved and registered by CBS.

Contact CBS Associations and Cooperatives

Email: associations@sa.gov.au

Phone: 131 882

Post:
GPO Box 1719
Adelaide SA 5001


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Page last updated 16 February 2023

Provided by:
Attorney-General's Department
URL:
https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/family-and-community/community-organisations/setting-up-a-community-organisation/incorporate-an-association
Last Updated:
16/02/23
Printed on:
07/06/23
Copyright statement:
SA.GOV.AU is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 Licence. © Copyright 2023
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