Business Registration
Business Registration
Plan the registrations, identifiers, names, and ownership choices needed before an Australian business starts trading.
Overview
Business Registration explained
Business registration in Australia is less a single form and more a short sequence of decisions: which structure you trade under, what name you use, which identifiers you apply for, and which tax registrations follow. Getting the order right saves rework later.
Most people start as a sole trader with an ABN, or set up a company through ASIC for an ACN and limited liability. Layered on top are optional pieces such as a registered business name, GST, and a trademark to protect your brand.
Cockatoo helps you see the whole picture in one place, so you can decide what applies to your situation and prepare the right details before you lodge anything.
What to check
Key points
- Your structure (sole trader, partnership, company or trust) shapes every registration that follows.
- An ABN comes from the Australian Business Register; a company and an ACN come from ASIC.
- A business name is optional and separate from your legal entity and any trademark.
- GST is generally required once turnover reaches $75,000, but you can register earlier.
Before you start
What you'll need
- A clear view of who owns and runs the business and how profits will be shared.
- Personal identity details for each owner or director, including tax file numbers.
- Your proposed trading name and any name alternatives you would accept.
- An estimate of expected annual turnover to judge GST and reporting needs.
- A business address and contact details for correspondence.
Process
How it works
- Choose the legal structure that suits your liability, tax and growth plans.
- Apply for an ABN, and register a company first if you are going the Pty Ltd route.
- Decide whether you need a registered business name and check it is available.
- Register for GST and any other tax roles once you understand your obligations.
- Record key documents and renewal dates so nothing lapses unnoticed.
Avoid these
Common mistakes
- Picking a structure based on a friend's setup rather than your own circumstances.
- Registering a business name and assuming it gives you exclusive brand rights.
- Leaving GST registration too late and scrambling once turnover passes the threshold.
- Treating registration as a one-off and forgetting to renew or update details.
Common questions
Business Registration FAQs
What does business registration in Australia actually involve?
It is a sequence rather than one task: choose a structure, obtain an ABN, optionally register a business name, and add tax registrations such as GST. A company also needs to be registered with ASIC. The right combination depends on how you plan to trade.
Do I need a company to run a business?
No. Many small businesses operate as sole traders with just an ABN, which is simpler and cheaper to maintain. A company offers limited liability and a separate legal entity, but it carries more reporting and compliance. Choose based on risk, tax and your plans.
What is the difference between an ABN and an ACN?
An ABN is an Australian Business Number issued by the Australian Business Register and used by all business types. An ACN is an Australian Company Number issued by ASIC only to companies. A company has both, while a sole trader has only an ABN.
In what order should I register everything?
Generally settle your structure first, then apply for an ABN (registering the company itself first if you are forming a Pty Ltd). Business name and GST registration come after you have an ABN. A trademark can be pursued at any stage to protect your brand.
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