What is an IPO? CSB’s Guide to Going Public

If your company is considering an IPO, understanding what’s involved is the first step.

Let's dive in!

An IPO is the process of a private company becoming publicly traded by offering shares to investors on a stock exchange. Companies typically pursue an IPO to:

• Raise capital for growth, acquisitions or debt reduction.
• Enhance credibility and brand awareness in the market.
• Provide liquidity for early investors and employees.
• Attract top talent with public company incentives.

BUT, going public is not just about raising money—it requires a fundamental shift in how a company operates, with increased transparency, Corporate Governance obligations and ongoing regulatory reporting requirements.

So, what are the Key Steps in an IPO?

Step 1: Preparation

Before launching an IPO, a company needs to ensure it has a strong Corporate Governance structure, financial reporting systems, and compliance framework in place. This includes:

• Appointing a relevant Board of Directors with independence and key capabilities.
• Establishing key Committees, such as Audit & Risk, Due Diligence and Strategy.
• Conducting financial audits to meet ASX and investor expectations.
• Ensuring Company Secretarial and Corporate Governance processes are IPO-ready.

Step 2: Due Diligence & Prospectus

A company must prepare a prospectus, a legally required document outlining:

• Business model and growth strategy
• Financial performance and forecasts
• Risks associated with investing
• Corporate Governance and Board structure

TIP: Regulators and potential investors will scrutinise these disclosures, so accuracy, compliance and transparency are critical.

Step 3: ASX Listing & Investor Engagement

Once approved, the company conducts an investor roadshow to generate interest. Shares are then offered to institutional and retail investors before the official ASX listing date. From this point forward, the company is publicly accountable and must meet strict ongoing disclosure and reporting obligations.

What Are the Corporate Governance Requirements for an IPO?

Transitioning to a public company means complying with ASX Listing Rules, the Corporations Act 2001, and continuous disclosure obligations.

Boards must:

• Ensure a strong Corporate Governance Framework is in place
• Ensure the Company has the required and relevant suite of Corporate Documents (e.g. appropriate Constitution, Charters, Whistleblower Policy)
• Meet financial reporting and audit requirements
• Follow ASX Listing Rules, including market-sensitive disclosures
• Maintain transparency with investors and regulators

TIP: This is where CSB's expert Corporate Governance support is crucial—ensuring compliance before, during, and after the IPO.

Choose Peace of Mind

At CSB Corporate Services, we provide expert fractional Company Secretarial and Corporate Governance support ensuring your company's IPO journey is seamless, tailored, compliant and stress-free.

We'll do the heavy lifting:

• Pre-IPO Corporate Governance Framework – We help set up Boards, Committees and Corporate Documents to meet ASX requirements.
• Prospectus Compliance & Due Diligence – We ensure IPO documentation meets regulatory and investor expectations.
• Ongoing ASX & ASIC Compliance – Our Company Secretaries manage regulatory filings and disclosure obligations.
• Board & Executive Training – We equip leadership teams with the skills and knowledge to operate as a listed company.

Going public is complex, but with the right Corporate Governance and compliance framework, it can be a seamless and successful transition.

Post-IPO—so what's next?

Once your company transitions from private to public, CSB Corporate Services can provide ongoing Company Secretarial and Corporate Governance support to ensure continuous compliance, efficiency, and strong Board operations. We've got your back!

Ongoing ASX & ASIC Compliance

• We'll ensure continuous compliance with the ASX Listing Rules and Corporations Act 2001.
• We'll manage market-sensitive disclosures, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• We'll look after ASIC filings; company registers and corporate documentation.

Board & Corporate Governance Support

• We'll facilitate Board and committee meetings, including expertly crafted agendas, Board packs and Minuting.
• We'll assist in establishing and refining your suite of Corporate Documents for a listed public company.
• We'll conduct Board and Corporate Governance evaluations to assess performance and identify Corporate Governance improvements.

Financial & Regulatory Reporting

• We'll oversee periodic financial reporting obligations under ASX and corporate law.
• We'll ensure compliance with continuous disclosure requirements, keeping investors and regulators informed.
• We'll coordinate annual reporting obligations, including the Director’s Report and ESG disclosures.

Director & Executive Training

• We'll provide ongoing ASX compliance training for Directors and key executives.
• We'll enhance the Board’s knowledge of Risk Management reporting, Corporate Governance trends and regulatory updates.
• We'll help the leadership teams understand continuous disclosure, market announcements and investor obligations.

ESG Compliance & Risk Mitigation

• We'll assist with the development of Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) frameworks.
• We'll assist with Risk Management assessments to align with public company expectations.
• We'll design and implement a relevant Whistleblower Policy implementation and?Corporate Governance framework.

Investor & Market Engagement

• We'll ensure shareholder communications and investor relations meet ASX disclosure standards.
• We'll assist with AGM planning, from notices to shareholder resolutions.
• We'll manage corporate actions such as capital raisings and regulatory approvals.

The CSB Difference

Going public is just the beginning. CSB Corporate Services ensures that once your company is listed, you remain compliant, well-governed, and positioned for long-term success. Our fractional Company Secretarial model provides expert Corporate Governance support—without the cost of a full-time in-house team.

• Australian-Owned & Operated – Local expertise, no offshore outsourcing.
• Specialists in ASX & Private Governance – Supporting companies across multiple industries.
• Tailored Solutions – We act as an extension of your team, adapting to your company’s unique needs.

The Bottom Line

An IPO is an exciting step, but strong governance, financial preparation, and regulatory compliance are essential for long-term success. With CSB Corporate Services as your Corporate Governance partner, you can navigate the IPO process confidently, efficiently, and with expert support every step of the way.

Ready to go public? Let's get started!

HOT OFFER! Book a complimentary Discovery Call with us and gain exclusive access to IPO Essentials, our quick-start guide to IPO success—includes pricing details.

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