How do I register a business in Australia?

In Australia, registering a business can mean three different things: applying for an ABN as a sole trader, registering a business name with ASIC, or incorporating a Pty Ltd company. The right path depends on whether you need a separate legal entity, liability protection, and a trading name.

Do I need to register a business name with ASIC?

You only need to register a business name if you will trade under a name that is different from your own personal name or your registered company name.

Is a business name the same as a company?

No. A business name is only a trading name. A company is a separate legal entity registered with ASIC that receives an ACN and has directors, shareholders, and ongoing obligations.

Do I need an ABN to register a business?

Most Australian businesses need an ABN to trade, invoice customers, and interact with the ATO. If you are registering a business name, you generally need an ABN or ABN application in place first.

Registration6 min read

How to register a business in Australia (2026)

The phrase register a business is a little misleading in Australia because it can mean different legal steps. Depending on your situation, you might need an ABN, a business name, or a full company registration with ASIC. This guide breaks down each path so you can register the right thing.

What “register a business” usually means

Most founders are trying to do one of these three things:

Start as a sole trader and apply for an ABN
Register a business name with ASIC so they can trade under a chosen name
Register a company with ASIC to create a separate legal entity

If you are unsure which path fits your goals, start with our structure comparison guide.

Option 1 — Sole trader plus ABN

This is the simplest path if you are working alone and do not need a separate legal entity. You apply for an ABN, trade either under your own name or a registered business name, and report the income in your personal tax return.

Read the full process in our sole trader registration guide.

Option 2 — Register a business name with ASIC

If you want to trade under a name other than your own legal name or your exact company name, you need to register that business name. This gives you the right to trade under the name, but it does not create a separate company.

A business name does not provide limited liability
A business name does not create an ACN
You usually need an ABN first

Option 3 — Register a Pty Ltd company

If you want a separate legal entity, limited liability, or a structure that is easier to use for co-founders and investment, then you are really looking to start a company, not just register a business name.

Company registration requires director, shareholder, and address details, and once registered ASIC issues an ACN. We cover that in detail in our start a company guide.

What about ABN, TFN, and GST?

Whatever structure you choose, tax setup still matters. Most businesses need an ABN, companies usually also obtain a TFN, and GST registration becomes relevant once annual turnover reaches $75,000.

If you are comparing identifiers, our ABN vs ACN guide explains where each one fits.

How to choose the right path

Choose sole trader if you want the simplest low-cost setup and accept personal liability
Choose business name registration if you already have the right structure and only need a trading name
Choose Pty Ltd company registration if you want limited liability, co-founders, or future investment flexibility

Quick rule of thumb

If your search is really about protecting personal assets or creating a company for growth, skip the business-name-only route and go straight to company formation.

Summary

To register a business in Australia, first decide whether you need a sole trader ABN, a business name, or a full company registration. Those are different legal steps, and understanding the difference is the fastest way to avoid duplicate work and the wrong registrations.