What does a corp sec do?

A corporate secretary—often shortened to “corp sec”—helps a company meet its corporate-governance and filing obligations. The role supports the company and its board; it does not replace the directors, who remain responsible for the company’s decisions and compliance.

What the role usually covers

Keeping company information current

A corporate secretary helps maintain statutory registers and company records, and coordinates updates when details such as directors, shareholders, shares, or the registered office change.

Preparing corporate records

They commonly prepare or maintain board and shareholder resolutions, meeting notices and minutes. These records provide evidence of how significant company decisions were approved.

Managing ACRA filings and deadlines

A company secretary may file transactions through Bizfile and often coordinates the annual return. The company’s details should be checked and updated before the return is filed. Financial statements, AGM information and other declarations may also be required, depending on the company.

Advising on governance process

The secretary helps directors understand the formal steps around appointments, resignations, share changes, meetings and resolutions. For a complex transaction, the company may still need a lawyer, accountant or tax adviser.

What a corporate secretary does not do

• They do not take over the directors’ legal duties or business decisions.
• They are not automatically the company’s accountant, lawyer or tax agent.
• They cannot make incomplete or inaccurate records compliant simply by filing them.

In-house or outsourced?

A company can appoint an eligible individual or use a corporate service provider. Many smaller companies outsource the work because filings are periodic and the provider can supply reminders, templates and practical process support.

When comparing providers, look at what is included in the annual fee, charges for one-off changes, response times, how records are stored, and whether the provider clearly discloses any additional services or commercial relationships.

What founders should still own

Keep your secretary informed before you change officers, issue or transfer shares, change the registered office, approve major transactions or approach an annual deadline. Directors should review documents and filings rather than treating the secretary as the final decision-maker.