Contents
Setting up an incorporated association? That’s fantastic news and a commendable step towards making a positive impact in your community!
Running a not-for-profit is an incredibly rewarding endeavour, and incorporating your association can open up many benefits – from limited liability to improved governance structures.
Before you get started, however, ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements for your state or territory. It’s wise to review our guide on legal requirements for starting a business to avoid any surprises during the application process.
If you’re based in Tasmania, our experienced lawyers can help you determine if you’re eligible to incorporate your association and guide you through the streamlined application process, now enhanced for 2025.
Who Regulates Incorporated Associations In Tasmania?
In Tasmania, the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) continues to regulate and manage the incorporation process. The regulatory framework has been updated to ensure greater transparency and efficiency as of 2025.
It’s important to familiarise yourself with the key provisions of the Associations Incorporations Act 1964 (Tasmania), as these rules govern your compliance obligations once incorporated.
How Do I Apply?
The process for setting up an incorporated association in Tasmania is straightforward, provided you meet all the necessary requirements before lodging your application.
1. Is Your Organisation Eligible For Incorporation?
Begin by asking, “Is our group formed for a common purpose?” Organisations might be eligible if they exist for one or more of the following reasons:
- Charitable purposes
- Educational or religious purposes
- Encouraging literature, science, or art
- Recreational purposes
- Operating community centres
- Managing superannuation schemes
- Providing retirement benefits
- Offering medical treatment services
If your answer is yes, then ask, “Are we operating on a not-for-profit basis?” This ensures any surplus is reinvested into your organisation’s mission rather than distributed as profit.
If you’ve answered yes to both of these questions, then you’ve successfully completed step 1.
2. Call A Meeting
Next, convene a meeting to decide on committee roles – such as secretary, president, and treasurer – that will govern your new association. For additional guidance on forming effective governance structures, our business partners guide offers valuable insights.
This is also the time to appoint or authorise a representative to lodge your application once all documents are in order.
3. Have Your Organisation’s Name Approved
When choosing your organisation’s name, verify that it isn’t already registered as an incorporated association. Our business name registration service can help you check availability.
Your name should reflect your purpose. Once incorporated, it must include the word ‘Incorporated’ or the abbreviation ‘Inc’ to denote limited liability.
4. Approve Your Set Of Rules
Your association needs a set of rules – essentially a constitution – that outlines how your organisation will operate. These rules must be in line with the Associations Incorporations Act.
You can adopt the model rules provided in the Act or tailor your own. Any amendments must still comply with legal requirements. Remember to attach this document when lodging your application.
5. Lodge An Application
The final step is to submit your application. Along with your set of rules, you will need to pay the relevant fee. In 2025, the incorporation fee in Tasmania is approximately $185, though fees are subject to review. For assistance with ensuring all your documents meet the current requirements, consult our business set-up services.
In addition to these steps, note that the incorporation process in Tasmania has been enhanced with a new online portal for submissions and updates. This streamlined system helps to reduce processing times and ensures that all documentation is securely stored. For comprehensive legal advice tailored to not-for-profits, consider exploring our legal tips and resources section.
Need Help?
Setting up an incorporated association in Tasmania is an exciting step, but it comes with its own set of legal requirements. Whether you need assistance drafting your rules, choosing the right name, or navigating the application process, we’re here to help.
Sprintlaw offers a comprehensive package to help you set up an incorporated association in Tasmania with ease and confidence. Our experts stay updated with the latest 2025 regulatory changes, ensuring your application is compliant and stress-free.
If you’d like a consultation on your options, feel free to reach us at 1800 730 617 or team@sprintlaw.com.au for a free, no-obligation chat.
Get in touch now!
We'll get back to you within 1 business day.
Top 3 Legal Mistakes
Book in a free consultation with us to discuss your legal needs.