Incorporated societies

An incorporated society is a group of at least 15 people who have applied for registration as an incorporated society under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908.  A wide range of groups and organisations apply for incorporation, including sports clubs, music and cultural groups and special interest organisations.

Once registered the incorporated society becomes a separate legal entity distinct from its members.  This means that the members are not personally liable for the society’s debts, contracts or other obligations.  Likewise, members do not have any personal interest in any property or assets owned by the society.

An incorporated society will continue in existence as long as it files certain documents with the Registrar of Incorporated Societies, or until its members, or a creditor, decide to bring the society to an end.

Further information

The Companies Office operates a website that caters specifically for incorporated societies and charitable trusts - Societies and Trusts Online.

Use Societies and Trusts Online to search the Register of incorporated societies as well as update your society's details including addresses, officers details and other contact details.  You will also find all the forms you need to incorporate or maintain your society after incorporation (for example, file financial statements, update rules).

Visit Societies and Trusts Online now.