Contents
Setting up an incorporated association (or any business) is always great news. But it can also be a bit overwhelming when you discover just how much work goes into the application process – especially with the latest updates in 2025.
Don’t stress, though! Setting Up An Incorporated Association In Western Australia is not as complex as it might sound, and Sprintlaw’s experienced team of lawyers is here to guide you every step of the way.
In WA, the process for setting up an incorporated association is regulated by the Associations Incorporation Act 2015 (WA). While this Act remains the cornerstone of the incorporation process, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with any recent amendments and key provisions to ensure full compliance in 2025.
To apply, you’ll need to complete the process with the Consumer Protection Division of the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (Consumer Protection), which continues to regulate incorporated associations in WA rigorously.
Where Do I Start?
The process for setting up an incorporated association in Western Australia can seem intricate at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s walk through each step so you’re fully prepared.
1. Authorise Someone To Apply
Before submitting your application, you need to appoint or authorise a person to lodge it on behalf of your organisation with Consumer Protection. Ensuring that the right individual is tasked with this responsibility can help avoid delays later on.
2. Choose A Name For Your Organisation
When choosing a name for your organisation, make sure it meets Consumer Protection’s requirements. For instance, your proposed name may be rejected if it is:
- Offensive or undesirable
- Likely to mislead the public about your purpose
- Identical to an existing incorporated association’s name
- Not permitted under the Act
You’ll also need to ensure that you append the word ‘Incorporated’ or the abbreviation ‘Inc’ at the end of your name to clearly indicate that you are protected by limited liability.
3. Elect A Management Committee
A management committee must be established to oversee the internal affairs of the association. Their responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Acting in good faith
- Exercising reasonable care, skill and diligence in all business activities
- Adhering to the association’s set of rules
This committee is integral to ensuring your association operates effectively and remains compliant with current legislation.
4. Create A Set Of Rules
If you’ve ever drafted a constitution, creating a set of rules for your incorporated association is very similar – except it doesn’t have to be called a constitution. In this context, your ‘set of rules’ outlines how the association will manage its internal affairs, including membership guidelines and meeting procedures.
It’s essential that these rules comply with the requirements laid out in Schedule 1 of the Act. For instance, you must include details about your association’s purpose. You might consider using the model rules provided by the Associations Incorporation Regulations 2016 (WA) – though it’s always wise to have a lawyer review them. For additional insights on drafting legal documents, check out our guide on legal requirements for starting a business.
5. Decide On Your Organisation’s Purpose
Your incorporated association must have a clearly defined purpose. This purpose should fall into one of the following categories:
- Religious, educational or charitable purposes
- Promoting literature, science or the arts
- Sports or recreation
- Medical treatment
- Political purposes
- Improving a community centre
- Conserving environmental resources
- Promoting the interests of students or staff
- Any other purposes approved by the Commissioner
It’s crucial to work with a lawyer when wording your association’s purpose to avoid issues later. This ensures that the scope of your purpose aligns with the activities your organisation will genuinely engage in.
6. Lodge Your Application
The final step is to submit your application through the AssociationsOnline portal. Don’t forget to attach a copy of your set of rules. If you opt to use the model rules, your application should include a separate statement setting out:
- The name of the association
- Your association’s purpose
- The quorum for a general meeting
- The quorum for a meeting of your organisation’s management committee
- The period of the first financial year of the association
In addition, as of 2025, you’ll need to pay a required fee of approximately $220 if you’re using your own rules. If you choose the model rules, the fee is around $180. Always double-check the latest fee schedule on the Consumer Protection website to ensure you have the most accurate information.
Once your application is lodged via the AssociationsOnline portal, it’s important to monitor your email for correspondence from Consumer Protection. The review process remains efficient in 2025, but prompt responses to any queries can help secure a smooth approval. For further clarity on compliance matters, you might also explore our Register a Business Australia guide.
Need Help Applying?
If you’re not entirely sure about what is required to set up an incorporated association or where to begin, Sprintlaw can help. Our team has guided countless associations through this process, ensuring compliance with all current legislation and providing tailored advice for your unique situation.
We offer a comprehensive package to help you apply and pay the necessary government fee to set up an incorporated association in Western Australia. For a free, no-obligations consultation on your options and next steps, please contact us at 1800 730 617 or team@sprintlaw.com.au. You can also visit our contact page for more details.
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.