Choosing a business name is one of the first steps when starting a business in Australia. But before you can legally trade under that name, you must register it with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). This guide explains the business name registration process in Australia, step by step, to help you get it right.
Key Takeaways:
- Businesses must register a business name with ASIC if trading under a name different from their legal entity (e.g., your personal name or company name).
- An Australian Business Number (ABN) is a mandatory prerequisite before registering a business name.
- Registration is completed online through the ASIC Connect portal.
- Fees apply for 1-year or 3-year registrations.
- Business names must be renewed before they expire to maintain the right to use them.
The business name registration process in Australia involves checking name availability, obtaining an ABN, and registering the name through ASIC Connect. Businesses must register a business name if they trade under a name different from the owner’s legal name. Registration is handled by ASIC and usually takes minutes if details are correct.
What Is a Business Name in Australia?
Think of your business name as its public-facing identity. It’s the name customers see on your shopfront, website, and invoices. Legally speaking, a business name (or trading name) is any name you use to conduct business that isn’t your own legal name or your company’s registered name.
For example, if your name is Jane Smith and you run your business simply as ‘Jane Smith’, you’re in the clear, no registration needed. But if you decide to trade as ‘Jane’s Creative Designs’, you must register that business name.
This isn’t just red tape. Registration creates a public record, allowing customers and suppliers to identify the legal entity they are dealing with. It’s a key part of Australia’s business landscape, which continues to grow. As of 30 June 2025, Australia had 2,729,648 actively trading businesses, with sole traders alone increasing by 2.4% to 822,873. You can find more business trends data over at the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Do You Need to Register a Business Name?
Yes, you must register a business name in Australia if you trade under a name different from your own legal name or your registered company’s name. This rule applies across different business structures.
Sole traders
You must register a business name if you operate under any name other than your own first and last name. For example, ‘John Citizen’ doesn’t need to register, but ‘John’s Plumbing’ does.
Companies
A company must register a business name if it trades under a name that is not its exact legal name as registered with ASIC. For example, if your company is ‘Sydney Plumbing Pty Ltd’ but you market it as ‘Sydney Plumbing Experts’, you must register ‘Sydney Plumbing Experts’ as a business name.
Partnerships and trusts
These structures must always register a business name. This is because the name of a partnership or trust is not a legal entity itself, so the trading name needs to be officially linked to the individuals or the trustee entity behind it.
Requirements for Registering a Business Name
Before you can start the ASIC business name registration, there are a few key requirements you must meet. Getting these sorted first will make the process much smoother.
- Have an Australian Business Number (ABN): This is non-negotiable. You cannot register a business name without a valid ABN. The name will be linked directly to your ABN on the Australian Business Register (ABR).
- Check Name Availability: The name you want must be available. It cannot be identical or nearly identical to an existing registered business or company name in Australia.
- Provide Address Details: You must provide a service address for the business name holder (usually your business premises) and a physical residential address for each business name holder or director.
Meeting these business name registration requirements Australia ensures your application can be processed without delays.
Business Name Registration Process in Australia
Ready to register your trading name? The entire business name registration process in Australia is handled online. Follow these business name registration steps to get it done correctly.
- Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN): First, apply for a free ABN through the Australian Business Register (ABR). You cannot proceed without it.
- Check Business Name Availability: Use ASIC’s ‘Check business name availability’ tool to ensure your desired name isn’t already taken. It’s also wise to check the IP Australia database for existing trademarks. For a full walkthrough, see our guide on how to make sure your business name is not taken.
- Create an ASIC Connect Account: All registrations are managed through the ASIC Connect portal. Sign up for an account if you don’t already have one.
- Complete the Business Name Application Form: Log in to ASIC Connect and follow the prompts to apply for a new business name. You will need your ABN, the name you want to register, and contact details.
- Select the Registration Period (1 or 3 years): Choose whether to register your name for one or three years. The three-year option typically offers better value.
- Pay the ASIC Registration Fee: Pay the required fee using a credit card.
- Receive Confirmation and Start Trading: Once payment is confirmed, ASIC will email your Record of Registration. Your details will be added to the ASIC business name register, and you can legally start trading under your new name.
Cost of Registering a Business Name
The cost to register a business name in Australia is set by ASIC and depends on your chosen registration period. The three-year option is generally more cost-effective.
| Registration Period | Fee (as of 1 July 2025) | Regulator |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | $42 | ASIC |
| 3 years | $98 | ASIC |
Note: Business name registration fees may change. Check current ASIC guidance for the most up-to-date figures.
Business Name vs Company Name vs ABN
It’s easy to get tangled in the jargon when starting out. Understanding the difference between a business name vs company name Australia is crucial for compliance.
- Australian Business Number (ABN): A unique 11-digit identifier for your business’s dealings with the government and ATO. It’s a prerequisite for ABN business name registration.
- Company Name: The legal name of a registered company (e.g., ending in ‘Pty Ltd’). It creates a separate legal entity and comes with an Australian Company Number (ACN).
- Business Name: A trading name used for marketing and public identity. It does not create a separate legal entity and offers no liability protection or trademark rights.
For a deeper dive, read our guide on the difference between an ABN and ACN.
Worked Example: Registering a Business Name as a Sole Trader
Let’s see how the process works in practice. Meet Chloe, a gardener in Brisbane starting a sole trader business. She wants to trade as “GreenEdge Landscaping.”
Steps:
- Chloe first applies for and obtains her ABN through the ABR website.
- She then uses the ASIC search tool and checks the availability of “GreenEdge Landscaping.” It’s available.
- She creates an account on ASIC Connect and completes the application, linking the business name to her ABN.
- She selects the 3-year registration to save money and reduce future admin.
- Timeline: The entire online process, from ABN application to receiving the business name registration certificate, takes Chloe under an hour.
- Cost: She pays the ASIC fee for a 3-year registration.
- Legal Rights: Chloe now has the legal right to trade and invoice under the name “GreenEdge Landscaping” anywhere in Australia. However, this does not give her trademark ownership of the name.
Chloe’s setup is a common path for new entrepreneurs. For more on this structure, check out our guide on the advantages of being a sole trader. Data on new business trends in Australia shows that thousands of sole traders follow this exact process every month.
Business Name Registration Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure you’ve covered all the bases for a smooth registration.
✔ ABN registered and active.
✔ Business name availability checked on the ASIC register.
✔ Name checked against the IP Australia trademark database.
✔ ASIC Connect account created.
✔ Application form completed with correct holder and address details.
✔ Registration fee paid.
✔ Business name recorded on ASIC register (confirmation received).
✔ Renewal reminder set in your calendar for your business name renewal Australia.
Common Mistakes When Registering a Business Name
A few common slip-ups can cause delays and compliance issues. Here’s what to watch out for.
- Mistake: Registering a business name without an ABN.
- Fix: Obtain an ABN first through the Australian Business Register. It’s a mandatory first step.
- Mistake: Confusing a business name with a company name.
- Fix: Understand they are separate registrations. A business name is a trading name, while a company is a legal structure.
- Mistake: Forgetting renewal deadlines.
- Fix: Track your renewal dates. ASIC will send a reminder, but it’s your responsibility to pay the business name renewal Australia fee on time to avoid losing the name.
- Mistake: Choosing a name that is already trademarked.
- Fix: Always check the IP Australia trademark database before registering your business name to avoid legal disputes.
FAQs About Business Name Registration
Do I need to register a business name in Australia?
Yes. You must register a business name with ASIC if you trade under a name different from your legal personal or company name.
How much does it cost to register a business name in Australia?
ASIC charges a fee for business name registration depending on the registration period (1 or 3 years). As of July 2025, it costs $42 for one year or $98 for three years. Check current ASIC guidance for the latest fees.
How long does business name registration take?
Most online applications through ASIC Connect are processed almost instantly, provided all details are correct. You should receive your Record of Registration via email within minutes of payment.
Do I need an ABN before registering a business name?
Yes. An Australian Business Number (ABN) is required before you can apply to register a business name.
What is the difference between a business name and a company name?
A business name is a trading name that does not create a separate legal entity. A company name is the legal name of a separate legal entity (‘Pty Ltd’) that provides limited liability.
How long does business name registration last?
You can register a business name for one or three years. You must renew it before it expires to continue using it.
Can I change my business name later?
You cannot ‘change’ an existing business name. You must register a new business name and then link it to your ABN. You can also choose to cancel the old one if you no longer use it.
Does registering a business name protect it as a trademark?
No. Registering a business name allows you to trade under that name but does not provide trademark protection. To protect your brand, you must register a trademark with IP Australia.
Final Tips for Starting a Business in Australia
Completing the business name registration process in Australia is a critical milestone, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Ensure your ABN is active, you understand your GST and tax obligations, and your chosen name is not infringing on an existing trademark. Getting your compliance right from day one sets a strong foundation for future success.
Getting your business name registered correctly is a foundational step for your new venture. If you want to be sure every detail is handled right the first time, the team at Nanak Accountants & Associates can manage the entire process for you. Book a consult by calling us on 1300 NANAK TAX (626 258) or visit our website.
