Free template
Give the association readable rules
Most community clubs operate as incorporated associations under state or territory law. Their constitution needs to explain purpose, membership, committee powers, meetings, finance and closure without forcing volunteers through dated language. This shared template covers those subjects. Adapt it to the association's jurisdiction and have the relevant governing body or adviser confirm required wording.
What is in the document
- Name, objects and powers setting out why the association exists and what it may do
- Member classes, admission, fees, discipline and the ways membership finishes
- Committee offices, elections, terms, casual vacancies and decision quorum
- AGMs and special meetings, including notice, votes and member participation
- Accounts, bank authority, spending controls and proper use of association funds
- Rule amendments and dissolution, with a destination for assets left at closure
Making it yours
Use your jurisdiction's form
An incorporated association sits under state or territory law. Replace generic clauses with any model or required wording applying where your club registers.
Check affiliation requirements
Insert current governing body clauses exactly where affiliation depends on specific safeguarding, discipline or other terms.
Protect assets at closure
State where remaining property goes if the association ends, accounting for its legal form and conditions attached to funded equipment.
What a club registers as in Australia
The usual answer here is an incorporated association, through the fair trading or consumer affairs body in your state or territory.
An incorporated association is the most common structure for a community club, and it is incorporated under state or territory law rather than nationally. It makes the club a legal entity separate from its members. Larger bodies sometimes use a company limited by guarantee instead.
The Australian Taxation Office treats sporting organisations as a type of income tax exempt organisation where the club is established to encourage a game or sport.
This template is a starting point, not legal advice. Check the official guidance, which was correct on 28 August 2026, and take advice before you adopt anything at a general meeting.
Questions
What belongs in an Australian club constitution?
Include the association's objects, membership rules, committee roles and elections, meeting procedure, financial controls, amendments and dissolution. The final wording must fit the requirements of the state or territory where the association is incorporated.
Why does a small association need one?
The constitution gives members a settled process for authority, fees, elections, meetings and disputes. Banks, funders and governing bodies may ask for it. Clear rules also make committee handovers less dependent on custom or memory.
Is this a free Australian constitution?
The shared template is free to download and requires no signup, but it is not an Australian-specific legal document. Adapt it for your jurisdiction and association, then obtain suitable review before formal adoption.