The Incorporated Societies Act 2022 is now in force. If your society was registered under the old 1908 Act, you’ll need to reregister by 5 April 2026, or risk being removed from the register.
Here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare.
Key requirements:
1. Constitution review
- Must include a dispute resolution process that follows natural justice.
- Update rules to reflect new governance and membership requirements.
2. Membership
- Minimum of 10 members required.
- Each member must consent to joining.
- Maintain a register with names, contact details, and dates of membership.
3. Committee structure
- Majority must be members of the society.
- Officers must consent in writing and confirm they’re not disqualified.
4. Financial reporting
- Prepare financial statements using XRB standards.
- Larger societies may need audited accounts.
- Understand thresholds for audit requirements.
5. Compliance and records
- Keep proper records of meetings, decisions, and officer appointments.
- Ensure processes are documented and accessible.
6. Reregistration timeline
- Reregistration opened 5 October 2023.
- Deadline is 5 April 2026.
- Societies that don’t reregister will be removed.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Assuming your current constitution is compliant, it likely isn’t.
- Forgetting to document officer consent.
- Missing the audit threshold and failing to prepare accordingly.
Next steps
- Review your constitution now.
- Get legal advice if you’re unsure about compliance.
- Start preparing documents for reregistration.
At Treadwell Gordon, we work with societies across the region to ensure they’re ready. If you need help reviewing your constitution or preparing for reregistration, we’re here to assist.
