Annual Information Statement
Your charity’s Annual Information Statement, explained
What the AIS is, what it asks for and what to have ready, in plain English. When you want support, Headstart Legal can help right through to submission.
For ACNC-registered charities. General information only, not legal advice.
Doing the legal heavy lifting so you can serve your mission
Headstart Legal works with charities and community organisations on their legal and governance needs, including Annual Information Statements, so reporting does not take time away from your programs.
“Since our registration in 2021, HeadStart Legal has prepared all our Annual Information Statements and been crucial throughout the process”
Al Nawawi Centre
The AIS at a glance
An online form that tells the ACNC about your charity’s operations and finances each year.
What it is
An online form lodged through the ACNC Charity Portal. There is no fee to lodge it.
Who lodges it
Every ACNC-registered charity, for each reporting period.
When it is due
Six months after your reporting period ends. Check your date on the ACNC Charity Register.
What your charity’s size means
Size is based on annual revenue. It decides whether you need a financial report with your AIS.
Small
Revenue under $500,000
AIS only. A financial report is optional.
Medium
$500,000 to under $3 million
AIS plus a financial report that is reviewed or audited.
Large
$3 million or more
AIS plus an audited financial report.
What the AIS asks for
The form is completed online in seven sections. Have your charity’s details, programs, people and financial information ready.
Packages and pricing
Headstart Legal’s AIS support, from reviewing your draft to preparing it for you. Every package includes an initial consultation and the AIS checklist. We confirm the package and fee with you before work begins.
Package 1
AIS review & submission
Appropriate for charities with a draft ready to check. We review your AIS against the information supplied, raise any questions or corrections, and submit it once you have approved it and authorised us to lodge.
Package 2
AIS preparation & submission
For charities that need help preparing their return. We provide a checklist, prepare the AIS from your records, follow up on outstanding information and arrange submission after your approval.
Package 3
AIS preparation & governance review
For charities seeking AIS assistance and a review of agreed governance documents and practices. Includes AIS preparation and submission, a concise findings report and a meeting to discuss recommended actions.
Fee note: All fees exclude GST and cover one charity for one reporting period. Annual revenue determines charity size: small, under $500,000; medium, $500,000 to under $3 million; large, $3 million or more. Financial statements, independent financial reviews and audits are not included. Additional work is quoted separately.
How we can support your AIS
Tell us where things stand
Share your reporting period and where you need help.
Agree the scope
We confirm the support and timing.
Review and approve your AIS
We send the AIS for your approval, then lodge it.
Common questions
Does my charity have to lodge an AIS?
Every ACNC-registered charity does. A few have different arrangements, such as ORIC-regulated corporations, Basic Religious Charities and eligible non-government schools.
Can we fix a mistake after we submit?
Yes. Amend your AIS in the Charity Portal as soon as you identify a material error, and no later than 60 days for small charities or 28 days for medium and large charities.
What happens if we lodge late?
The ACNC sends warning letters and penalties apply from the first day overdue. Long-overdue reports can put your registration at risk.
Can you work with our accountant?
Yes. You or your accountant provide the financial information, and we clarify what the AIS needs.
When is our 2026 AIS due?
For charities reporting from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026, the ACNC has extended the deadline to 31 January 2027. Other reporting periods have different deadlines. Check your charity’s listing on the ACNC Charity Register for its due date.
Tell us more about your needs
Send us a few details about your charity and the help you are looking for. We will be in touch to discuss the scope and timing.
Prefer to call? Call us on 1300 974 644