Incorporating as an Association

Protect your club and its members with the benefits of incorporation. 

Starting a club is exciting! But before you start riding, consider incorporating your organisation. While it’s not mandatory, incorporation offers significant advantages for your club and its members: 

• Limited Liability: Shield members from personal liability if someone is injured during club activities. 
• Enhanced Fundraising: Incorporation opens doors to grants and simplifies fundraising efforts. 
• Streamlined Operations: Easily enter into leases, open bank accounts, and borrow money. 

Who Can Incorporate? 

• Non-Profit Status: Your club must be a non-profit organisation. 
• Minimum Members: The minimum member requirement varies by state or territory. It’s usually between 5 and 7 members. Please check with your local authority for specifics. 

Incorporation Process: 

You’ll first need to hold an Annual General Meeting. This can be same as the initial public meeting for your club. At this general meeting, you’ll need to: 

• Pass a motion to incorporate by resolution. This will need a ¾ majority to pass. 
• Choose an association name 
• Elect a committee 
• Adopt a constitution (our club constitution template can help you get started) 

Then you can file your application. Submit your application and fees to the relevant state or territory government agency. We’ve provided the links below. 

State/Territory Incorporation Websites: 

• Australian Capital Territory: Office of Regulatory Services
• New South Wales: Office of Fair Trading
• Northern Territory: Department of Business
• Queensland: Office of Fair Trading
• South Australia: Consumer and Business Services
• Tasmania: Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading 
• Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria  
• Western Australia: Department of Energy, Mines, Industrial Regulations and Safety

Incorporation is an important step in establishing a strong foundation for your cycling club. By taking advantage of its benefits, you can focus on fostering a thriving cycling community while protecting your members and your organisation. 

Incorporation not right for your organisation? 

Take a look at how to start a Riding Club instead.