Accessing associations public records 

Members of the public can inspect/obtain copies of documents lodged with NSW Fair Trading on the Public Register under the Associations Incorporation Act 2009 following payment of the prescribed fee.

An Extract* or copy of the Certificate of Incorporation may be obtained from Registry Services or over the counter at any NSW Fair Trading Centre. Copies of all other Register documents must be obtained from Registry Services.

*An Extract lists the registration number, current status, current and previous names of the association and public officers and a list of all documents lodged on the Register.

Search request form

Copies of documents lodged can be obtained by completing the form Incorporated associations search request form in PDF format (size: 33kb).

Please note: pre-paid account holders must contact the Registry to obtain a copy of the appropriate form for completion.

Once completed, follow these steps:

• Lodge with Registry Services by fax: 02 6333 1484 or post to PO Box 22, Bathurst NSW 2795 or email to registrysearches@services.nsw.gov.au.
• On receipt, the Registry will contact you within 3-5 working days regarding the cost or progress of your request. There is no obligation to proceed with the search request and the documents sought may be altered during this time.
• Once you have been provided with a quote, payment must be made within 28 days either by:
  • mailing a cheque or money order, payable to NSW Fair Trading to PO Box 22 Bathurst NSW 2795
  • payment at your nearest Fair Trading Centres and telephone the Registry to advise the receipt number issued, or
  • completion of the Credit card payment form in PDF format (size: 19kb) and fax or send it to the Registry.
• Once payment is receipted, the search results will be forwarded to you by post.

More information

Queries about inspecting and obtaining information on incorporated associations should be directed to the:

Search Officer
Registry Services
Freecall 1800 502 042
or email to registrysearches@services.nsw.gov.au

Privacy and personal information

Personal details provided on documents lodged by incorporated associations may be provided to the public by way of a search of the Register, for which fees apply.

Section 10 of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 requires that NSW Fair Trading ensures that individuals are aware that their personal information contained on the Register may be made available to the public. All information collected by Fair Trading is for lawful purposes and in accordance with the appropriate legislation.

The Privacy Act also allows Fair Trading to withdraw personal information from the Register available for public inspection when an individual can demonstrate that their safety or well-being may be affected.

Any person requiring suppression of personal information will be required to fill out the Request for suppression of personal information form in PDF format (size: 24kb).

Contact Registry Services or refer to the Fair Trading website Privacy statement.

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