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

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.

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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.

Our contact details

Associations and Charities Branch

phone icon Telephone: (08) 9282 0764 or 1300 30 40 74 (for country callers)

fax icon Fax: (08) 9282 4337

po box icon Postal address: Locked Bag 14 Cloisters Square, WA 6850

address icon Physical address: Unit 4/321 Selby Street North, Osborne Park

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.  

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