If you want to trade under a specific name in Australia, you need to register it as a business name with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), or you can do it at Biz Australia Register Business Name. This registration is necessary unless you are trading under your own name. The ABN Lookup contains a list of all Australian Business Numbers (ABNs), and when you register a business name with ASIC, it will be associated with your ABN record.
Trading names, which were previously used by entities to carry out their business activities, do not meet the requirements of a registered business name. To remove a trading name from your ABN, you will need to contact the Australian Business Register (ABR). The fees for registering a business name are $99 for one year and $189 for three years. After registration, you will receive a copy of your record of registration, and you must prominently display your business name wherever you are open to the public. Additionally, you must include your ABN on any business correspondence that you send out.
How to Register a Business Name in Australia
Registering your business name in Australia is a simple process that can be done online. There are two options available: the Australian Government’s Business Registration Service or Biz Business Name Registration. Both methods provide a convenient way to register your business name.
If you choose to register through Biz Australia, you will need to log in or create an account. Once logged in, select “Business name” from the drop-down menu and enter your Australian Business Number (ABN). Next, enter your proposed business name and select the desired registration period, either one year or three years. Provide the necessary details and addresses for the business name holder, and confirm your eligibility to hold the name. Review your application, make the payment, and complete the transaction. Within 48 hours of payment, your business name should be officially registered.
Alternatively, you can opt for the Australian Government’s Business Registration Service. This service allows you to register your business name along with other necessary registrations, such as an Australian Business Number (ABN) and Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration. The process is similar, but can take a little longer and be a bit more clunky.
Why Register Your Business Name?
Registering your business name is an important step in establishing your brand and protecting your interests. It provides legal recognition and allows you to trade under your chosen name. Registering also ensures that your business name is associated with your ABN, creating a clear link between your business activities and identification.
By following the registration process, you can confidently operate your business using your chosen name, knowing that it is legally recognized and protected. So, take the necessary steps to register your business name and set your brand up for success.
What to Do If Your Preferred Business Name is Not Available
If the name you want for your business is already registered, you cannot register the same name. However, there are alternative options you can consider to ensure your business name is unique and distinguishable from existing names.
One solution is to add your name or a descriptor to the desired name. For example, if “Smith & Co.” is already registered, you could register “Smith & Co. Plumbing” or “Smith & Co. Consulting” instead. This helps differentiate your business name while still retaining the essence of your desired name.
To find alternative choices, you can use the business name availability check tool provided by the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC). This tool allows you to search for available business names and see if any similar variations are already registered. It is important to note that the availability check tool only indicates if a name is available and does not guarantee registration with ASIC. Therefore, it is recommended to have a few backup options in case your preferred name is not available.
| Unavailable Business Names | Alternative Choices |
|---|---|
| Smith & Co. | Smith & Co. Plumbing |
| Johnson Enterprises | Johnson Holdings |
| Green Gardens | Green Oasis Landscaping |
By selecting alternative choices and ensuring your business name is unique, you can successfully register your business and start trading under a name that represents your brand and offerings.
Responsibilities After Registering Your Business Trading Name
Once you have successfully registered your business trading name, there are important responsibilities that you need to fulfill. It is crucial to keep your business details up to date with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to ensure accurate information is available to the public. This includes notifying ASIC of any changes such as a change of address or contact information for your business.
Another responsibility is prominently displaying your registered business name wherever you are open to the public. This can include your storefront, office, or any physical location where you conduct business. Displaying your business name not only helps establish your brand identity but also provides transparency to your customers regarding the legal entity they are dealing with.
Additionally, it is essential to update your business correspondence with your registered business name and Australian Business Number (ABN). This means including your business name and ABN on invoices, purchase orders, contracts, and any other official documents that you send out. This helps ensure clarity and identification when conducting business transactions.
Updating Your Business Details with ASIC
To update your business details with ASIC, you can use the ASIC Connect portal or lodge the changes via mail. The ASIC Connect portal provides a convenient and efficient way to make changes online. You will need to log in to your account and select the “Business names” option. From there, you can update the required details such as address, contact information, and other relevant information.
If you prefer to lodge the changes via mail, you can download the relevant form from the ASIC website and send it to the designated address along with any supporting documents. It is important to note that there may be fees associated with updating your business details, so it is advisable to check the current fees on the ASIC website before submitting your changes.
By fulfilling these responsibilities after registering your business trading name, you will be compliant with ASIC regulations and maintain accurate and transparent information about your business. This helps build trust with customers and ensures smooth operations as you continue to grow and succeed.
Considerations for Protecting Your Business Name
Registering a business name does not automatically grant you exclusive rights to that name. To ensure complete protection and prevent others from using your business name, it is recommended to apply for a registered trademark. A trademark is a form of intellectual property (IP) right that provides legal protection for your business’s unique brand, products, or services.
Obtaining a registered trademark offers you exclusive use of the trademark throughout Australia, providing protection in all states and territories. This means that no one else will be able to use your business name or any similar names in the same industry, safeguarding your brand’s identity and reputation.
To learn more about trademarks and their benefits, as well as to check the availability of your desired trademark, you can visit the IP Australia website. IP Australia is the government agency responsible for administering intellectual property rights, including trademarks, in Australia. Their website provides comprehensive information on the registration process, fees, and other important details to help you protect your business name effectively.
By applying for a registered trademark, you can establish a strong legal foundation for your brand and prevent any potential confusion or infringement issues. It is a proactive step that demonstrates your commitment to protecting your business’s assets and sets you apart from competitors. Take the necessary measures to safeguard your business name and ensure its unique recognition in the market.
FAQ
Do I need to register my business trading name in Australia?
Yes, unless you are trading under your own name, you need to register your business name.
How do I register a business name in Australia?
You can register your business name online using the Australian Government’s Business Registration Service or register.biz.au – Simply log in or create an account, select “Business name” from the drop-down box, enter your Australian Business Number (ABN), provide the necessary details, make payment, and complete the transaction.
What should I do if my preferred business name is not available?
If the name you want for your business is already registered, you cannot register the same name. It is recommended to choose an alternative name that is different from any existing names. You can add your name or a descriptor to the desired name to make it unique.
What are my responsibilities after registering my business trading name?
After registering your business name, you must keep your details up to date with ASIC, prominently display your business name wherever you are open to the public, and include your registered business name and ABN on your business correspondence.
Should I consider protecting my business name with a registered trademark?
If you want exclusive rights to your business name and to prevent others from using it, you should consider applying for a registered trademark. A trademark provides protection for your unique brand, products, or services throughout Australia and in all Australian states and territories.
