Making changes in a co-operative

Changing a co-operative’s name

Changing a co-operative’s name requires approval via a special resolution. The co-operative should also amend its rules to reflect the change. Go to the starting a co-operative page to see the requirements for a co-operative’s name.

If the resolution is passed, send the following to the Registrar within 28 days:

• Form C9 Application for Name Change with the relevant lodgement fee
• the current certificate of registration
• Form C10 Application to Register Rule Amendment
• with the relevant lodgement fee.

The name change and amendment to the rules will not have any effect until they are registered.

Changing a co-operative’s rules

See the co-operatives rules page for more on how a co-operative can change its rules.

Address change

Co-operatives must notify the Registrar of any change to their registered or postal address within 28 days. This is done by lodging Form C8A - Notice of change of registered office address (online lodgement only).

There is no fee for this application but late lodgement fees apply.

Find out more about online lodgment.

Change of directors or officers

Co-operatives must notify the Registrar if any of the following officers are changed: 

• director
• secretary
• chief executive officer.

A change in name, position, or termination of their appointment must also be reported by giving notice to the Registrar.

Notice is given by lodging Form C8 – Notice of change of details of co-operative officers.

There is no fee for lodging this form, however late lodgement fees apply.

Find out more about online lodgment.

Resignation or removal of auditor

Auditors of large co-operatives must apply in writing to the Registrar for permission to resign. The auditor of a small co-operative does not need the Registrar's consent to resign.

All co-operatives must send a copy of any notice to remove its auditor to the auditor and the Registrar. This must be done as soon as possible after receiving the notice.

All co-operatives must lodge Form C14 Notice of Resignation Removal or Cessation of Auditor within 14 days after:

• the removal from office of an auditor, or
• the receipt of a notice of resignation from an auditor.

The CNL does not require audits of small co-operative's financial statements. However, small co-operatives may be required to have an audit under their rules.