Co-operatives

Co-operatives are member-owned, democratic organisations based on self-help, responsibility, and equality. Unlike public companies, voting rights are equal for all members, not based on shareholding.

About co-operatives

Learn about co-operatives, their structure, membership, and legal responsibilities under the Co-operatives National Law.

Co-operatives National Law

Learn about the Co-operatives National Law, its implementation across Australia, and how NSW leads the national regulatory project.

Co-operatives legislation in NSW

NSW co-operatives follow the Co-operatives National Law. Learn about registration, regulations, forms, and exemptions managed by NSW Fair Trading.

Starting a co-operative

Learn the step-by-step process for registering a new co-operative under the Co-operatives National Law (NSW), including rules, disclosures, and meetings.

Running a co-operative

Understand co-operatives’ duties, from naming and registers to directors’ responsibilities and financial reporting under the Co-operatives National Law.

Closing a co-operative

Learn about the different ways a co-operative can be wound up, including voluntary winding up, deregistration, and Supreme Court action.

Download co-operatives forms

Find a list of forms and a link to the co-operatives lodgement portal.

Search for co-operatives in NSW

Search NSW Fair Trading’s Co-operatives Register to find details on co-operative name, number, registration status, and location under the Co-operatives National Law.

Access co-operatives public records

Access NSW Fair Trading’s Public Register to request co-operative documents, pay required fees, and ensure privacy protection under the Co-operatives National Law.

Make a complaint or an enquiry

Learn your rights under the Co-operatives National Law and how to address breaches or file a complaint with NSW Fair Trading.

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