How to Register a Business Name in Australia: 6 Easy Steps

Consider your business structure

As a sole trader, you’ll have full control but also full responsibility. Partnerships share the load, while companies and trusts have more complex setups. Take the time to understand the pros and cons of each before settling on your structure.

Ensure your business name is available

Next, check if your proposed business name is available. You can search ASIC’s business names register to see if it’s taken. If it’s free, lock it in quick. Keep in mind, your name can’t be too similar to an existing one.

Understand restricted words and expressions

Some words and expressions are off-limits or need special approval to use in your business name. Things like ‘bank’, ‘trust’, ‘royal’, and ‘university’ are restricted to avoid misleading people. Double-check the rules before you get attached to a name.

Step 2: Create your ASIC connect account

To register your business name, you’ll need an ASIC Connect account. It’s the online system ASIC uses to manage business names. Creating an account is pretty straightforward, but there are a few steps involved.

Visit the ASIC connect website

Head to the ASIC Connect website and look for the ‘Log in/Sign up’ button. If you don’t have an account yet, click ‘Sign up’ to get started.

Enter your details

You’ll need to provide your email address, which will become your username. Choose a secure password and fill in your personal details like name and phone number. Read and accept the terms and conditions, then click ‘Create account’.

Activate your account

ASIC will send an activation email to the address you provided. Click the activation link in the email to complete the setup process. And just like that, you’ll have an ASIC Connect account ready to go.

Step 3: Register your business name

With your ASIC Connect account set up, you’re ready to register your business name. It’s a pretty intuitive process, but there are a few key steps to follow. Let’s break it down.

Log in to ASIC connect

Jump back into your ASIC Connect account and head to the ‘Licences and Registrations’ section. Select ‘Business name’ from the drop-down menu to start your application.

Enter your business name details

Type in your proposed business name exactly as you want it to appear. Remember, it needs to be unique. You’ll also need to provide some details about the business name’s holder, like their name and address.

Select registration period

Decide how long you want to register your business name for. You can choose either a one-year or three-year registration period. Keep in mind, you’ll need to renew your registration before it expires to keep your business name active.

Make payment

There’s a fee to register your business name, which you can pay by credit card or BPAY. The cost depends on your chosen registration period – one year is cheaper than three. Once you’ve paid, you’re all set. Your business registration should be processed within a couple of days.

Step 4: Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)

An Australian Business Number (ABN) is a unique 11-digit number that identifies your business to the government and community.

You’ll need it for tax purposes and to register your business name. Thankfully, applying for an ABN is free and can be done online.

Visit the business registration service website

The Australian Government’s Business Registration Service is where you’ll apply for your ABN. It’s a one-stop-shop for all your key business registrations. Navigate to the website to get started.

Enter your business details

You’ll need to provide some information about your business, like its structure, activities, and contact details. The online form will guide you through each step. If you’re unsure about anything, there’s plenty of helpful information along the way.

Submit your application

Once you’ve entered all your details, review your application carefully. When you’re happy, click ‘Submit’ to send it off for processing. You’ll receive an ABN application reference number which you can use to track your application’s progress. Most ABNs are issued within a few business days, so sit tight.

Step 5: Register for additional licences and permits

Depending on your business type and location, you may need additional licences and permits to operate legally. These can be specific to your industry, like a food service licence for a cafe, or related to your business activities, like a permit for outdoor dining.

Research required licences and permits

Start by checking with your local council and state government to see what business licences you might need. The Australian Business Licence and Information Service (ABLIS) is a helpful tool for finding the licences and permits relevant to your business.

Apply for necessary registrations

Once you know what licences and permits you need, it’s time to apply for them. The process can vary depending on the licence type and issuing authority. Some may have online application forms, while others require hard copy submissions. Be sure to check the specific requirements for each licence you’re applying for.

Step 6: Protect your business name

Registering your business name is a great first step, but it doesn’t give you exclusive rights to use it. To stop others from trading under your name, you might want to consider registering a trademark.

Consider registering a trademark

A trade mark gives you exclusive rights to use your business name in relation to your goods or services. It can be a valuable asset, especially if you plan to franchise or expand your business in the future. To register a trademark, you’ll need to apply through IP Australia.

Understand the benefits of trademark protection

Registered trademarks offer a higher level of protection than business name registration alone. They can help you build a strong brand identity, prevent others from riding on your success, and give you more legal options if someone infringes on your name. It’s worth considering if you want to give your business name the best possible protection.