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Association Constitution

R449

Create a constitution for a voluntary association, club, community body, interest group, professional group, cultural body, or member-based organisation.

An Association Constitution is used where people create a voluntary association for a shared purpose, such as community work, culture, sport, advocacy, professional interests, social activities, education, welfare, or local development.

South African legal context (2026 checklist)

The constitution should clearly regulate whether the association has separate legal personality, who may bind it, how funds are controlled, how members join or leave, and what happens to assets on dissolution. If the association intends to register as an NPO, the constitution should align with the NPO Act.

  • South African common law of voluntary associations
  • South African common law of contract
  • Nonprofit Organisations Act 71 of 1997, where NPO registration is sought
  • Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013
  • Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 4 of 2000

Use this as a starting point only. Verify current gazetted amendments, tribunal rules, and SARS / DOL circulars that may apply to your matter.

Typical questions we'll walk you through

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What is the name of the association?
What is the name of the association?
What are the association’s objectives?
What are the association’s objectives?
Who may become a member?
Who may become a member?
What membership fees apply?
What membership fees apply?
Who will manage the association?
Who will manage the association?
How are office bearers elected and removed?
How are office bearers elected and removed?
What meeting, quorum, and voting rules apply?
What meeting, quorum, and voting rules apply?
How will money and assets be managed?
How will money and assets be managed?
How will disputes and discipline be handled?
How will disputes and discipline be handled?
What happens if the association dissolves?
What happens if the association dissolves?

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