Business Name Registration
Administered by: Australian Securities and Investments Commission / Registry
When is this licence required?
You must register a business name if you run a business in Australia and are not trading under your own name.
A business name is the name your business operates under. You must choose and register a business name unless you are:
- operating as an individual sole trader under your first name and surname
- operating in a partnership under all partners' personal names
- a registered Australian company and your operating name is the same as the company's name.
What are the eligibility requirements for this licence?
To be eligible for registration of a business name you will need an Australian Business Number (ABN), or if your application for an ABN is pending, a statement to that effect and the reference number for the ABN application.
How much does this licence cost?
| Task | Type | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial | Application | $45.00 | Registration for 1 year. Fees for 2025-26 |
| Initial | Application | $104.00 | Registration for 3 years. Fees for 2025-26 |
How often do you need to apply for this licence?
One or three years
Are there any specific application requirements?
| Task | Information |
|---|---|
| Transfer | You may transfer a business name to a new owner. Once the request to transfer is submitted, your registration will be cancelled within 28 days. If the new owner intends to use the name, they will need to register it using the transfer number. |
| Initial | You can register a business name on the Business Registration Service or ASIC Connect. If you already have an ABN or an ABN reference number, you can apply for a business name through ASIC's online system ASIC Connect. |
What forms provide more information?
| Task | Forms |
|---|---|
| Initial | Business Registration Service |
| Initial | ASIC Connect |
| Transfer | Submit a Business Name Transfer |
What legislation specifies this licence?
Business Names Registration Act 2011 (Australian Government)
Business Names Registration Regulation 2011 (Australian Government)
Who can you talk to for more information?
Customer Contact Centre
Australian Securities and Investments Commission / Registry
| Phone | 1300 300 630 |
More Information
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