Choosing a name

Confirm that the name will be allowed

The name you choose for your society cannot be identical or deceptively similar to that of another incorporated society or other body corporate. 

If you do choose a name that is identical to the name used by another body corporate (for example, a company, incorporated society, charitable trust) it can only be used if the other organisation gives its written consent to the Registrar.

The name you choose cannot contain certain words (e.g. ANZAC, Royal) the use of which are prohibited by other pieces of legislation.  See more examples of names that contravene other Acts.

Symbols, such as @ cannot be used in the name.

Search the Companies Register to check that the name that you want is available.   Using the search options on the Companies Office website you are able to check for possible matches with a wide range of body corporates, not just for existing incorporated societies or charitable trusts.

Read more about searching the Companies Register.