FREE session: Governance Matters 1: The Incorporated Societies Act Changes: Re-register or risk closure – What your society needs to do now

The Incorporated Societies Act Changes: Re-register or risk closure – What your society needs to do now 

Date: Tuesday 3 February

Time: 6.30pm to 7.45pm.

Cost: FREE

On Zoom

Presenter: Carol Scholes

NOTE: Register prior to 5.30pm COB on the day of the session to guarantee your zoom link.

The new Incorporated Societies Act has come into force, introducing significant changes for membership societies and associations. All existing incorporated societies must decide whether to re-register under the new Act by 5 April 2026. Organisations that do not complete the process risk losing their incorporated status.

This session explains what the changes mean in practice and what boards need to do now. It covers the re-registration process, the time involved, and the governance responsibilities associated with updating constitutions and consulting members.

This session sits within the Governance & Accountability capability area of the LiiFT Aotearoa framework and supports boards to manage compliance confidently and proactively.

Key takeaways

Participants will gain:

• A clear understanding of the key changes under the new Incorporated Societies Act

• An overview of the re-registration process and why preparation takes time

• Guidance on constitutional updates and effective member consultation

• Clarity on board responsibilities during the transition

Why attend?

This session will help you to:

• Understand what your society needs to do to remain compliant

• Plan the re-registration process in a realistic and timely way

• Support informed decision-making at board and committee level

Who this session is for

This session is designed for:

• Board and committee members of incorporated societies or associations

• Managers and administrators involved in governance and compliance

• Anyone responsible for overseeing re-registration or constitutional change

Feedback from previous participants

“The presenter was knowledgeable who politely answered our questions no matter how small or repetitive. She made you feel safe in asking whatever we needed.”

“This was very enlightening.”