The McGowan Government is looking for feedback from members of Western Australia’s 20,000 associations and not-for-profit groups with the view to modernise the current laws and reduce their red tape burden.
The Associations Incorporation Act 2015 is now under review, giving associations and their members an opportunity to provide input into possible changes to the laws that affect how they operate.
The review will consider, among other things, whether financial reporting and audit obligations can be simplified, particularly for smaller associations, and if the laws are keeping pace with the advances in modern information and communications technology that facilitate their activities.
The Government wants to ensure that the laws are operating effectively and continue to meet the needs of associations and not-for-profit groups and their members, particularly considering the greater demands arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.
A consultation paper can be viewed and submissions made via the . There is also a survey that can be completed for those who do not wish to make a formal submission but want to provide some feedback.
The closing date for submissions is Monday April 4, 2022.
As stated by Commerce Minister Roger Cook:
“Associations make a vital contribution to the quality of community life and to the economy of Western Australia, so it’s important that we get the balance right between protecting members while not placing too much of a regulatory burden on those who manage them.
“With many associations being run by volunteers, we want to make sure that compliance is not too demanding and seek suggestions where it can be reduced or streamlined.
“It’s important to hear from those who manage these associations and not-for-profit groups, as well as their members, and that they tell us about their experiences with the current laws and make suggestions as to how they could be improved.”
