Start Your Business

Sole Trader

Simplest and least expensive structure
Complete control over business decisions
Personal liability for business debts
Business income taxed as personal income
Suitable for small, low-risk businesses

Partnership

Sole Trader

Shared ownership between 2-20 people
Relatively simple and inexpensive to set up
Partners share profits, losses, and responsibilities
Joint liability for business debts
Partnership agreement recommended

Company

Separate legal entity from its owners
Limited liability for shareholders
More complex and expensive to establish
Subject to additional regulations and reporting
Flat company tax rate (25-30%)

Trust

Company

Complex structure with a trustee
Trustee holds assets for beneficiaries
Potential tax advantages
Higher setup and maintenance costs
Requires formal trust deed

REGISTRATION PROCESS

Registering your business in Australia involves several steps depending on your chosen business structure.
Follow this guide to ensure you complete all necessary registrations.

① Choose Your Business Structure

Decide whether you'll operate as a sole trader, partnership, company, or trust based on your business needs, liability considerations, and tax implications.

Work out your business registrations using this Business Registration Service ►

② Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)

An ABN is essential for all businesses in Australia. Apply online through the

Australian Business Register ►

The application is free and can be completed in one session.

③ Register Your Business Name

The Australian Government Business Registration Service combines several business and tax registrations in one place, making it even easier to start a business. You can apply for an ABN and register your business name online.

Business Registration Service ►

Registration fees apply and renewal is required every 1 or 3 years.

④ Register for Tax Obligations

Depending on your business structure and turnover, you may need to register for:

Goods and Services Tax (GST) ► - mandatory if turnover exceeds $75,000
Pay As You Go (PAYG) ► - if you have employees
Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) ►- if you provide benefits to employees
Luxury Car Tax (LCT) ►- if you supply, import or manufacture luxury cars
Fuel Tax Credits (FTC) ► if you use fuel in your business
Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) ► for wine manufacturers, wholesalers and importers

⑤ Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Research and apply for any industry-specific licenses, permits, or registrations required for your business operations. Requirements vary by industry and location.

Use the Australian Business License and Information Service (ABLIS) ►

to identify the licenses you need.