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Getting started

Starting a not-for-profit organisation but not sure where to start? We're here to help. We’ll guide your new organisation through key legal decisions.

Content last updated 24/07/2024

Should your group register as a charity?


  • what is a charity?
  • the difference between not-for profit organisations and charities
  • how are charities regulated?
  • should your organisation register as a charity?
  • how do you register as a charity?
  • what must a charity do to keep its ACNC registration?
  • using the ACNC Registered Charity Tick


  • to be a not-for-profit (including having 'not-for-profit clauses' in its rules)
  • meet the definition of 'charity', and
  • have an ABN

More information 

Read more about the definition of charity and registering as a charity on the ACNC's website.

If you are not sure whether your organisation is eligible to register as a charity, read the ACNC’s application checklist and guide and use the ACNC's Charity registration self-assessment tool.  


Getting Started Tool: A free online tool

Need help making key legal decisions? Our self-help tool will ask you a series of questions about your new organisation - in plain and simple English - and will provide you with information to help you answer these questions.



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