Money

When thinking about money and your organisation, some of the key questions include:

What accountability systems are in place
Who controls the money
Whether to fundraise, and if so, whether registration is required
Ability to seek deductible gift recipient status and/or tax exempt status
GST implications
State regulations for fundraising activities

The structure that your organisation chooses can affect its tax status, the duties that it owes to members/supporters, and how it transacts business.

Having a loosely structured organisation may mean that individuals who represent the interests of the organisation in business dealings may be held personally financially liable for their actions. For example, if you intend to raise donations, the money could be considered income in the hands of group members and attract income tax.

Alternatively, it could be characterised as income of a non-profit organisation that may or may not attract tax.

Having a very loosely structured organisation may also mean that the public and businesses are reluctant to deal with your organisation because they are not willing to take the perceived risk.