Non-Profit Fact Sheets

What is a Charitable Trust?

When establishing a non-profit organisation, founders can choose from a large range of legal forms, including registering a charitable trust. Your organisation’s legal structure will determine the …

What is an Organisation formed by Royal Charter or by Special Act of Parliament?

Organisations formed by Royal Charter or by Special Act of Parliament are some of Australia’s oldest and largest non-profits. In the past, organisations formed by Royal Charter were administered by …

What are the different legal structures of non-profit organisations in Australia?

There are many different non-profit structures that organisations use in Australia. Among them are unincorporated associations, incorporated associations, companies limited by guarantee, cooperatives, …

What is the difference between a charity and not for profit organisation?

In Australia, there is a clear difference between a charity and not for profit organisation. To be legally recognised as a charity, an organisation must meet a strict set of requirements and be …

What is an Unincorporated Association?

Although an unincorporated association does not have the same economic significance as larger non-profit organisations, its great number and presence in many communities across the country attest to …

What is Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) Status?

Deductible gift recipient (DGR) status carries with it certain legal responsibilities and only certain types of entities qualify. As with organisations registered as a charity, a deductible gift …

What is an Indigenous Corporation?

When establishing a non-profit organisation specialising in providing programs or services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait groups, founding an Indigenous Corporation is a great option. An Indigenous …

What is an Incorporated Association?

An incorporated association is one of several formal legal structures available to non-profit organisations in Australia. Incorporating your association can offer your members certain rights and legal …

Cooperatives in Australia: What are they?

Co-operatives in Australia come in several different forms. The co-op organisational structure may be the right one for you if your goal is to produce goods and services in an isolated community where …

What is a Company Limited by Guarantee?

When establishing your non-profit organisation, you have several legal structure options to choose from, including an incorporated or unincorporated association, a cooperative, a charitable trust, or …