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Are you thinking of Setting Up An Incorporated Association In South Australia in 2025? Well, we’ve got you covered.
Setting up an incorporated association continues to have its own unique process in each State or Territory across Australia. If your organisation is operating in South Australia, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the latest laws and regulations so you remain compliant from day one—and continue to meet your obligations after you’ve incorporated. For additional insights on establishing your legal framework, you might also explore our comprehensive Business Set Up guide.
In South Australia, the government body that regulates incorporated associations is Consumer and Business Services (CBS). As you prepare your application, it’s important to refer to the key provisions in the Associations Incorporation Act 1985 (SA), which outlines your legal duties and the operational rules your association must follow.
Where Do I Start?
The process for setting up an incorporated association in South Australia may seem overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps can help simplify things. Let’s walk through each stage of the process.
1. Nominate A Public Officer
Every incorporated association is required to have a designated public officer who acts as the primary point of contact for the organisation. This individual’s details must be submitted to CBS and will be the face of your association for all official matters.
2. Choose A Name For Your Organisation
Choosing the right name is crucial. Not only does it need to be unique—so check against ASIC’s business register—but it must also include the word ‘Incorporated’ or ‘Inc’ at the end. This practice signals to the public that your organisation benefits from limited liability protection. For more pointers on selecting a suitable name, take a look at our Business Name Registration page.
3. Create A Set Of Rules
Just as a company has a constitution, an incorporated association requires a set of rules to govern its internal affairs—including how meetings are held and how the committee is structured. While these rules aren’t legally required to be called a “constitution,” the underlying principles remain the same. You can draft your own rules or use the Example Rules provided by CBS. If you’re unsure, it’s a smart idea to consult a professional—our Contract Drafting services can help tailor your rules to suit your organisation’s specific requirements.
4. Decide On Your Organisation’s Purpose
Your association must be established for a recognised purpose. Common categories include:
- Religious, educational or charitable activities
- Sports or recreational endeavours
- Medical or health-related initiatives
- Political purposes
These are not the only purposes available—refer to section 18(1) of the Act for a full list. Ensuring that your organisation’s purpose is clearly defined from the outset will help guide your internal decisions and keep you on the right side of the law.
5. Lodge Your Application
Once you’ve sorted out your internal arrangements, the next step is to lodge your application with CBS. This involves authorising someone to submit the necessary paperwork, which includes the Application for Incorporation of an Association form along with your set of rules.
As of 2025, you’ll need to pay a fee of approximately $250 (fees are subject to change, so be sure to verify the latest details on the CBS website). Completing these steps correctly will ensure your application is processed smoothly.
6. Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Incorporation is just the beginning. Once your association is established, you must continue meeting ongoing compliance requirements. This includes updating key information with CBS, adhering to annual reporting obligations, and regularly reviewing your rules to ensure they remain compliant with any legislative changes. For further advice on staying compliant, check out our Legal Requirements for Starting a Business resource and our guides on consumer law obligations for non-profit organisations.
Need Help Applying?
If you’re not entirely sure what is needed to set up your incorporated association, or if you feel daunted by the process, Sprintlaw is here to help. We provide tailored packages to assist you with your application—including managing the payment of the required government fee. For more specialised advice on not-for-profit legal matters, you can also explore our Charity Set Up page.
Get in touch for a free, no-obligation consultation by calling 1800 730 617 or emailing team@sprintlaw.com.au. We’re dedicated to helping you navigate the legal landscape, ensuring your association is on a firm footing from day one.
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