For information on the common structures available to community groups, and assistance in deciding which structure best suits your group, check out the Community Law website resources:
For many groups taking on large-scale projects, the choice comes down to forming either an incorporated society or a charitable trust. The table below indicates some of the differences between these two options.
Some differences between Incorporated Societies and Charitable Trusts.
| Incorporated Society | Charitable Trust |
|---|---|
| Minimum of 15 members | Board of trustees of at least two |
| Key decisions made by members at general meetings and in committees | Key decisions made by trustees. Members support but do not run the organisation |
| Can be charitable or work for profit | Always charitable |
| Members can join and leave easily | Trustees are appointed or elected for a fixed term |
| Fee of $100 to set up | No fee to set up |
| Companies Office requires annual financial accounts | No annual accounts required by Companies Office |