Co-operatives Act 2009
Co-operative principles
The following seven guiding principles distinguish a co-operative from other business structures. These are set out in section 6 of the Co-operatives Act 2009.
- Voluntary and open membership
- Democratic member control
- Economic participation
- Autonomy and independence
- Education, training and information
- Co-operation among co-operatives
- Concern for the community
Overview of the Act and Regulations
The Act was designed to provide guidelines for the formation and day to day operation of
co-operatives. Specifically, the Act:
- Enables the formation registration and operation of co-operatives;
- Promotes co-operative philosophy, principles, practices and objectives in the operations and activities of co-operatives;
- Protects the interests of co-operatives, their members and the public in the operations and activities of co-operatives;
- Ensures directors of co-operatives are accountable to members for their actions and decisions; and
- Encourages and helps co-operatives to manage themselves at all levels of the organisation.
How to register a co-operative
By law, all co-operatives trading in Western Australia must register with the Department of Commerce. This website contains information sheets about becoming a new co-operative, or transferring an existing co-operative to the new legislation. The forms which are required to be completed to register or transfer a co-operative are included on tabs down the left hand side.
In addition the Department has produced a guide for co-operatives titled “Co-operatives: Good Business Guide”. The guide covers the requirements of the legislation and also details some good governance practices.
For those co-operatives looking to transfer their registration under the new Act then the publication titled the “Co-operatives Transfer Guide” is the one for you! This guide details the transfer process in step by step points to make the process as easy as possible.
If you require any information about co-operatives please do not hesitate to contact the staff in the Co-operatives Unit. Contact Us