How to start a
Non-for-profit in Australia

It’s worth noting that starting a not-for-profit business can be complex and requires a lot of planning and dedication. It’s important to do your research and seek advice from experts in the field before embarking on this type of venture.

Identify your mission and purpose

When identifying the mission and purpose of your not-for-profit business in Australia, there are a few key steps to follow:

• Identify the issue
• Research the issue
• Define your mission
• Define your purpose
• Consider your unique value proposition

Identify the issue

Think about the social or environmental issue that you want to address. Consider the scale of the problem, the impact it has on individuals and communities, and the potential for positive change.

Research the issue

Conduct research to better understand the issue you want to address. This might include reviewing academic literature, consulting with experts, and conducting community consultations to gain a better understanding of the issue.

Define your mission

Based on your research and analysis, define your not-for-profit’s mission. Your mission should be a clear statement of what you want to achieve and why it matters. It should be aspirational, but also achievable.

Define your purpose

Next, define the purpose of your not-for-profit. This should be a more detailed explanation of how you plan to achieve your mission and the specific activities and programs that you will undertake to make a positive impact.

Consider your unique value proposition

Finally, think about what makes your not-for-profit unique. Consider your strengths, your resources, and your capabilities, and think about how you can leverage these to achieve your mission and purpose. This will help you to differentiate yourself from other organizations working in the same space and to create a more compelling case for support from donors and stakeholders.

By taking the time to carefully define your mission and purpose, you will be better positioned to create a not-for-profit business that is focused, effective, and impactful. This will help you to attract support from donors and volunteers and to make a meaningful contribution to the issue you are passionate about.

Choose a legal structure

When choosing a legal structure for your not-for-profit business in Australia, there are several options available.

Here’s a brief overview of three common legal structures for not-for-profit businesses:

Company limited by guarantee

This structure is similar to a regular company, but it is set up with the specific purpose of pursuing a not-for-profit objective. Members of the company (rather than shareholders) guarantee to contribute a set amount of money towards the company’s debts if it is wound up. This structure is suitable for not-for-profit businesses that want to have a more formalized structure, with directors and members who have defined roles and responsibilities.

Incorporated association

This structure is specifically designed for not-for-profit organizations and is suitable for organizations that are run by a committee or board of volunteers. Incorporated associations must have a constitution, which outlines the rules and objectives of the organization. This structure is often used by community groups, sporting clubs, and other organizations that do not have a commercial purpose.

Charitable trust

A charitable trust is a legal structure in which a group of people, called trustees, hold property or assets on behalf of a not-for-profit organization. The trust deed outlines the rules for how the trust is managed, and the trustees are responsible for ensuring that the trust is run in accordance with the deed. This structure is often used by organizations that are focused on charitable causes, such as health and welfare, education, and the arts.

When choosing a legal structure for your not-for-profit business, it’s important to consider factors such as your organization’s size, goals, and level of formality. It’s also a good idea to seek professional advice from a lawyer or accountant to help you make an informed decision. Once you have chosen a legal structure, you will need to register your business with the relevant authorities and comply with any legal requirements associated with your chosen structure.

Register your business

Registering your not-for-profit business in Australia involves a number of steps, including registering with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). Here’s a more detailed outline of the registration process:

Register with ASIC

If you have chosen a legal structure that requires registration with ASIC (such as a company limited by guarantee), you will need to complete the registration process. This involves choosing a name for your organization, appointing directors, and completing the necessary forms and documentation.

Register with the ACNC

All not-for-profit organizations in Australia are required to register with the ACNC. This involves completing an application form and providing information about your organization’s governance, activities, and finances. The ACNC is responsible for regulating and overseeing not-for-profit organizations in Australia, so it’s important to ensure that you comply with their requirements.

Register with state or territory authorities

Depending on your legal structure and the activities that your not-for-profit will undertake, you may also need to register with state or territory authorities. For example, if you plan to fundraise in Victoria, you will need to register with Consumer Affairs Victoria. Similarly, if you plan to operate a charitable trust in New South Wales, you will need to register with the NSW Office of State Revenue.

It’s important to note that the registration process can be complex, and there are a number of legal and regulatory requirements that must be met. It’s a good idea to seek professional advice from a lawyer or accountant to ensure that you comply with all of the necessary requirements. By registering your not-for-profit business, you will be able to operate legally and access a range of benefits and support services that are available to not-for-profit organizations in Australia.

Develop a business plan

Developing a business plan is an important step in starting a not-for-profit business in Australia. A business plan is a written document that outlines your organization’s goals, strategies, and financial projections, and serves as a roadmap for your organization’s growth and development.

Here are some key elements to include in your not-for-profit business plan:

• Executive summary
• Organisational structure
• Market analysis
• Programs and services
• Marketing and outreach
• Financial Projections
• Risk Management

Executive summary

This section provides an overview of your organization’s mission, goals, and key strategies.

Organisational structure

This section outlines the legal structure of your organization, including the roles and responsibilities of board members, staff, and volunteers.

Market analysis

This section provides an overview of the social or environmental issue your organization will address, and examines the demand for your services in the community.

Programs and services

This section outlines the programs and services your organization will offer to address the social or environmental issue you have identified.

Marketing and outreach

This section outlines your organization’s marketing and outreach strategies, including how you will reach your target audience and promote your services.

Financial projections

This section includes financial projections for your organization, including revenue and expenses, funding sources, and cash flow.

Risk management

This section outlines the risks and challenges that your organization may face, and includes strategies for managing those risks.

Developing a business plan can be a time-consuming process, but it can also be a valuable tool for your organization’s growth and development. Your business plan will help you to stay focused on your goals, and will provide a roadmap for your organization’s success. It’s important to review and update your business plan regularly to ensure that it remains relevant and reflects the changing needs of your organization and the community you serve.

Establish a governance framework

Establishing a governance framework is an important step in starting a not-for-profit business in Australia. A governance framework is a set of policies, procedures, and practices that govern the operations of your organization, and ensure that it is managed effectively and efficiently. Here are some key elements to include in your governance framework:

Board or management committee roles and responsibilities

This section outlines the roles and responsibilities of your board or management committee, including their legal duties, decision-making processes, and accountability to stakeholders.

Risk management

This section outlines your organization’s approach to risk management, including how risks will be identified, assessed, and managed.

Compliance

This section outlines your organization’s compliance obligations, including legal and regulatory requirements, and the policies and procedures that will be put in place to ensure compliance.

Conflict of interest

This section outlines policies and procedures to manage conflicts of interest, including the disclosure of conflicts of interest and the processes for managing them.

Financial management

This section outlines policies and procedures for financial management, including budgeting, financial reporting, and internal controls.

Code of conduct

This section outlines the ethical and behavioral expectations of your board, staff, and volunteers, and establishes a code of conduct that aligns with your organization’s values.

Developing a governance framework can help your organization to operate effectively and efficiently, and ensure that it is managed in a way that is accountable to stakeholders. It’s important to review and update your governance framework regularly to ensure that it remains relevant and reflects the changing needs of your organization and the community you serve. You may also want to seek professional advice from a lawyer or governance expert to ensure that your governance framework complies with legal and regulatory requirements.

Secure funding

Securing funding is an important step in starting a not-for-profit business in Australia. Here are some key steps to consider when developing a fundraising strategy:

Identify potential sources of funding

This includes government grants, philanthropic donations, corporate sponsorships, and individual donations.

Research funding opportunities

Look for funding opportunities that align with your organization’s mission and purpose, and identify the requirements and deadlines for each opportunity.

Develop a fundraising plan

This plan should outline your fundraising goals, strategies, and activities, and include a timeline for implementation. It should also identify the roles and responsibilities of staff and volunteers involved in fundraising activities.

Build relationships with donors and supporters

Develop relationships with potential donors and supporters, and keep them informed about your organization’s activities and impact.

Apply for grants

Develop grant applications that align with the funding criteria and requirements, and ensure that they are submitted before the deadline.

Host fundraising events

Organize fundraising events such as auctions, galas, or charity runs, to raise awareness and funds for your organization.

Explore alternative revenue streams

Consider alternative revenue streams, such as selling merchandise or services, or creating a social enterprise to generate income for your organization.

Securing funding can be a challenging process, but it is essential for the success of your not-for-profit business. It’s important to diversify your funding sources, and to develop relationships with donors and supporters who share your organization’s values and goals. You may also want to seek professional advice from a fundraising consultant to help you develop and implement your fundraising strategy.

Recruit volunteers and staff

Recruiting volunteers and staff is an important step in starting a not-for-profit business in Australia. Here are some key steps to consider when recruiting volunteers and staff:

Define roles and responsibilities

Develop job descriptions that clearly outline the roles and responsibilities of volunteers and staff, and ensure that they align with your organization’s mission and goals.

Develop policies and procedures

Develop policies and procedures for volunteers and staff that cover areas such as code of conduct, health and safety, confidentiality, and performance management.

Recruit volunteers and staff

Advertise volunteer and staff positions through online job portals, social media, or local newspapers, and conduct interviews to identify the most suitable candidates.

Provide training and support

Provide training and support to volunteers and staff to ensure that they have the skills and knowledge required to perform their roles effectively. This may include on-the-job training, workshops, or mentoring.

Recognise and reward volunteers and staff

Develop recognition and reward programs to acknowledge the contributions of volunteers and staff, and to retain their support and commitment to your organization.

Manage performance

Develop performance management processes to monitor and evaluate the performance of volunteers and staff, and to provide feedback and support to help them improve.

Recruiting volunteers and staff is an ongoing process, and it’s important to ensure that your recruitment practices are fair, transparent, and inclusive. It’s also important to create a positive and supportive work environment that encourages volunteer and staff engagement and retention. You may also want to seek professional advice from a human resources consultant to help you develop and implement your recruitment and retention strategies.

Establish partnerships and collaborations

Establishing partnerships and collaborations is an important step in starting a not-for-profit business in Australia. Here are some key steps to consider when building partnerships and collaborations:

Identify potential partners

Identify organizations and stakeholders who share your goals and can help you achieve greater impact. This may include government agencies, community groups, other not-for-profit organizations, or businesses.

Develop a partnership strategy

Develop a partnership strategy that outlines your goals, strategies, and activities for building partnerships and collaborations. This should include a plan for identifying and approaching potential partners, as well as guidelines for developing and managing partnerships.

Establish clear communication

Establish clear lines of communication with your partners, and ensure that you have regular meetings and check-ins to discuss progress and make decisions.

Define roles and responsibilities

Define the roles and responsibilities of each partner, and ensure that they are aligned with your organization’s mission and goals.

Develop a memorandum of understanding (MOU)

Develop an MOU that outlines the terms of the partnership, including the scope of work, timelines, and financial arrangements. This can help to ensure that all parties are clear on their responsibilities and commitments.

Collaborate on programs and projects

Collaborate with your partners on programs and projects that align with your shared goals, and leverage each other’s strengths and resources to achieve greater impact.

Evaluate and adapt

Regularly evaluate your partnerships and collaborations to assess their effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement. Be willing to adapt your partnership strategy and approach as needed.

Establishing partnerships and collaborations can help you to achieve greater impact and reach more people with your programs and services. It’s important to identify partners who share your values and goals, and to develop strong, mutually beneficial relationships based on clear communication, trust, and respect. You may also want to seek professional advice from a partnership or collaboration specialist to help you develop and implement your partnership strategy.

Launch your not-for-profit

Launching your not-for-profit is an exciting milestone in the journey towards making a meaningful impact on your chosen issue. Here are some key steps to consider when launching your not-for-profit:

Plan your launch event

Plan a launch event that will generate excitement and awareness about your not-for-profit. This could be a public event, a media release, or an online campaign.

Communicate your mission and purpose

Clearly communicate your not-for-profit’s mission and purpose to your audience. This will help to build support and engagement among your stakeholders.

Build your brand

Develop a strong brand identity that reflects your not-for-profit’s values and goals. This could include a logo, website, social media presence, and other marketing materials.

Start implementing your business plan

Start implementing your business plan and begin delivering your programs and services. Monitor your progress and adjust your strategies as needed to ensure that you are making a meaningful impact on your chosen issue.

Engage with your stakeholders

Engage with your stakeholders, including donors, volunteers, staff, and beneficiaries. This will help to build relationships and trust, and ensure that you are meeting their needs and expectations.

Develop partnerships and collaborations

Continue to develop partnerships and collaborations with other organizations and stakeholders who share your goals and can help you achieve greater impact.

Regularly review and evaluate

Regularly review and evaluate your progress against your goals and objectives, and make adjustments to your strategies and activities as needed. This will help you to stay on track and ensure that you are making a meaningful impact.

Launching your not-for-profit is an important milestone, but it’s just the beginning of a long journey towards achieving your goals and making a meaningful impact. It’s important to stay focused, remain adaptable, and continue to build strong relationships with your stakeholders as you work towards your mission.

Starting a not-for-profit business can be complex and time-consuming, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. By following these steps, you can establish a strong foundation for your not-for-profit and create positive change in your community and beyond.