Changing a company type
This is Information Sheet 18 (INFO 18). It explains how to change a company type to a more suitable option if your company has significantly changed its activities since it was first registered.
During the life of your company, you may decide to change your company type.
The activities or nature of your company may have altered so much that the existing company type no longer suits you.
Changing company type is a serious step to take so we recommend you seek legal advice if you are considering making such a change.
Kinds of company you can change to
Section 162 of the Corporations Act states that only some kinds of conversion are allowable. The following table is contained in that part of our legislation:
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This type of company may change… |
…to this type of company |
|---|---|
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1 proprietary company limited by shares |
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|
2 unlimited proprietary company |
|
|
3 public company limited by shares |
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4 company limited by guarantee |
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5 unlimited public company |
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6 public no liability company |
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What you have to do
- Pass a special resolution.
- Lodge Form 205 Notification of resolution and Form 206 Application for change of company type with ASIC.
When the change officially occurs
Under subsection 164(3) of the Corporations Act ASIC is required to publish a notice in the Commonwealth Gazette that states that it intends to alter the details of the company's registration. One month after the notice is published in the Gazette the change to company type takes place.
Information sheets provide concise guidance on a specific process or compliance issue or an overview of detailed guidance.