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Associations

Associations and clubs have long been, and remain, an important part of our society.

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There would be few Australians who are not involved with an association or club in one form or another – be it social, political, recreational or voluntary service. Clubs and associations do not have to be  incorporated, but there are some benefits.

What does "incorporation" mean?

Incorporation of an association means that it becomes a legal entity in its own right, separate from the individual members. Put another way,

the association is considered at law to have a distinct identity that continues regardless of changes to the membership.  The INC. Guide website is an essential reference for all incorporate associations.

Why incorporate?

The major features of becoming incorporated are:

  • the association acquires the powers of a body corporate with perpetual succession and a
    common seal;
  • the association may sue or be sued;
  • the association may enter into contracts and acquire, hold and dispose of property;
  • members or officers of the association are generally not liable to contribute towards the payment of debts or liabilities of the association;
  • the name of the association concludes with the word "Incorporated" or the abbreviation "Inc." as part of its name; and
  • if members or office bearers of the association incurred liabilities or obligations on behalf of the association prior to incorporation, those liabilities and obligations can be exercised against the incorporated association.

Many social, sporting and community groups can incorporate under the Associations Incorporation Act. The Act provides a cheap, simple way of establishing a legal entity that has the capacity to function in its own right.

Associations Incorporation Green Bill 2006

In 2007/2008 the State Government reviewed the Associations Incorporation Act 1987.  Detailed information is available on the Associations Incorporation Act review pages.  

Business Names

You may also want to refer to our Business Names section which provides information on how to register a business name, or how to do a business name search. Associations cannot be incorporated with the same name as a registered business name.

For more information, call 1300 30 40 74, or send an email.

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