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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.
The how to incorporate (PDF 284 KB) document has a comprehensive list of eligible purpose categories on page two.
To incorporate an association you'll need to upload a copy of:
- your association's proposed rules (sometimes called the constitution)
- the completed checklist for the proposed rules
- any trust documents connected to the rules, including documents which establish the trust.
The name of the association must be the same as shown in the rules.
Application fee: $216.00
You'll receive the Certificate of Incorporation in approximately 14 days.
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: $152.00
Contact CBS Associations and Cooperatives
Email: associations@sa.gov.au
Phone: 131 882
In person:
91 Grenfell Street
Adelaide
Post:
GPO Box 1719
Adelaide SA 5001
