The 3 steps you must complete to register a co-operative are listed below. This page outlines Step 3.
1. Apply for approval of the co-operative's proposed name, rules and disclosure statement (if applicable) by lodging a pre-approval application.
2. Hold a formation meeting with the co-operative's members and directors.
3. Apply for registration of the co-operative.
Rules of a co-operative
Within 2 months of the formation meeting, you must lodge a co-operative registration application form via myCAV and any relevant supporting documentation:
- a completed Application to register a co-operative
- a copy of the rules signed by the chair and secretary of the formation meeting certifying that they were approved
- a copy of any disclosure statement, signed by the chairperson and secretary of the formation meeting, certifying that it was presented
- fees payable. Refer to Fees and forms – co-operatives for more details.
Find more information about the formation meeting.
If approved, the Registrar will register your co-operative and send you a registration certificate via email which you can view in your myCAV account. Processing time will depend on whether more information or legal advice is needed.
Your registration and incorporation will come into effect on the date your co-operative is registered.
If the Registrar is not satisfied that the requirements for registration of the co-operative have been met, they Registrar may refuse to register the co-operative and its rules.
How to lodge an application to register a co-operative via myCAV
- Sign into your myCAV account
- Scroll down to the section ‘Apply for a licence or registration in myCAV’
- Click on ‘Co-operatives’ and then ‘Lodge co-operative registration application form’.
Using myCAV
Co-operatives can now use our online system myCAV. This provides a quick and easy way to access your registration, manage your co-operatives information and lodge transactions.
To start using myCAV, you must create your own myCAV account using a personal email address to verify your identity and then sign-in to your account.
Apply now
Find more information About myCAV.
Fees
Your co-operative will need to pay a fee when lodging the application.
We no longer accept cheques as payment for transactions, including lodging annual reports. This change reflects the Australian Government’s decision to phase out cheques for more secure options.
Along with using Visa or Mastercard (credit and debit card) to pay fees, you can also pay fees using BPAY. For more information about BPAY and secure payments, contact your financial institution.
If your co-operative uses cheques as its only form of payment, you will need to explore new payment options.
Find more information about co-operatives fees.