Registration of a Co-operative
Administered by: Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety / Consumer Protection
When is this licence required?
You will need this registration if you intend to form a co-operative. A co-operative is an organisation owned and controlled by its members that operates primarily for economic, social or cultural benefit of its members. A co-operative legally registered in one jurisdiction is able to operate on a national basis without the need for further registration or reporting requirements in each state.
A co-operative can be either a:
- distributing co-operative
- non-distributing co-operative.
A distributing co-operative can give a return or distribute surplus to the members of the co-operative as bonus shares, dividends or rebates. A non-distributing co-operative cannot give a return or distribute surplus to its members as they are not-for-profit organisations.
What are the eligibility requirements for this licence?
To be eligible for this registration, the proposed co-operative must have:
- approved rules
- an approved draft disclosure statement
- two or more co-operatives (for a co-operative group)
- a membership of five or more people (for any other co-operative)
- held a formation meeting.
How much does this licence cost?
| Task | Type | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | Application | $201.00 | Fees for 2025-26 |
How often do you need to apply for this licence?
As specified
Are there any specific application requirements?
| Task | Information |
|---|---|
| Initial | There are three steps to registering a new co-operative:
|
What resources provide more information?
| Task | Type | Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Comply | Advisory Material | Rules for Co-operatives |
| Initial | Advisory Material | Co-operative Fees and Forms |
What legislation specifies this licence?
Co-operatives Act 2009 (Western Australia)
Co-operatives Regulations 2010 (Western Australia)
Who can you talk to for more information?
Cooperatives Unit
Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety / Consumer Protection
| Mailing address | LOCKED BAG 14 Cloisters Square PO, Western Australia 6850 |
| Operating address | Gordon Stephenson House 140 William Street Perth, Western Australia 6000 |
| Phone | 1300 304 074 |
| cooperatives@lgirs.wa.gov.au | |
| Business website | Co-operatives |
More Information
The Small Business Development Corporation does not provide legal advice. The materials present on the SBDC website are provided voluntarily as a service to our clients and do not constitute legal advice. Formal legal advice should be sought when appropriate.
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