Incorporating an association
Generally, organisations that may incorporate are small non-commercial community groups.
The types of associations that may consider incorporation are:
- sporting groups
- arts and crafts groups
- social groups
- ethnic and cultural groups
- pensioner associations
- musical societies
- environmental groups.
The steps to incorporate vary, depending on whether your group is just starting out or is already an unincorporated association, a co-operative or a company.
Note: you can't incorporate if you are planning to provide monetary gains to members.
Incorporating a new association
If the association does not already exist, follow these steps:
- Five or more individuals authorise an application for incorporation/registration that includes:
- a statement of the association's objects
- a copy of the association's proposed constitution.
- Reserve a name by lodging an Application for reservation of name (Form A1) together with the prescribed fee, with NSW Fair Trading. To find out if a name is already registered call the Registry of Co-operatives & Associations on 1800 502 042 or NSW Fair Trading on 13 32 20 and select the Business Registration option.
- Apply for incorporation by lodging an Application for registration (Form A2), with the prescribed fee and documents at any Fair Trading Centre or by mail to the Registry of Co-operatives & Associations, PO Box 22, Bathurst NSW 2795.
Top of pageIncorporating an existing association
To incorporate your existing association, follow these steps:
- Pass a special resolution to authorise an application for incorporation/registration that includes:
- a statement of the association's objects
- a copy of the association's proposed constitution.
Follow Step 2 and Step 3 (see Starting an incorporated association).
How much does it cost to incorporate an association?
Information on current fees is available by calling the Registry of Co-operatives & Associations on 1800 502 042 or 02 6333 1400 or by visiting the Incorporated association fees page on the Fair Trading website.
Need more information?
Contact the Registry of Co-operatives & Associations
Tel: 6333 1400
FreeCall: 1800 502 042
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