Legal Definition
Section 3 of the NPO Act defines a controller as a person who has the control or management of a non-profit organisation, and includes:
- A director of a non-profit company, where the NPO is established as a non-profit company;
- A trustee of a trust, where the NPO is established as a trust;
- A person responsible for the management or administration of an unincorporated body, where the NPO is established as an unincorporated body;
- A senior officer of the non-profit organisation; or
- Any other person not specified above where the NPO is controlled or managed by that person.
What Does the Controller Need to Do?
The Controller has significant responsibilities under the NPO Act, including:
- Signing and submitting Form 1 at the time of NPO registration
- Signing and submitting Form 6 (Annual Return) each year
- Notifying the Registrar of changes using Form 4
- Ensuring the NPO remains compliant with its obligations under the Act
What Information Must Be Provided for Each Controller?
On all NPO forms, you must state for each controller:
- Full name (first given name, middle name, surname)
- Full street address including building and unit number
- Occupation with area of specialty (e.g. electrical engineer)
- Nationality
- Telephone number(s)
- Email address
- The basis upon which the person is considered a controller
What If I Want to Change the Controller?
To change your controller, you must complete and submit Form 4 — Notice of Change in Particulars to the Registrar General’s Office in person.
Where Controllers Must Be Declared
- Form 1 — at the time of NPO registration (Question 9)
- Form 6 — in every Annual Return (Question 5)
- Form 4 — whenever controller details change (Items 4–7)