Register your new business name.
**Checking Available Business Names in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide**
When starting a new business in Australia, one of the crucial steps is to check the availability of your desired business name. This process ensures that your business operates under a unique and recognized name, which is essential for building a strong brand identity. In this article, we will explore the importance of checking available business names and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do so.
**Why Check Available Business Names?**
Before you start your business, it is essential to check if your desired business name is available. This is because the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) requires businesses to register their names if they operate under a name other than their legal name. If your desired name is already taken, you will need to choose a different name that is available.
**How to Check Available Business Names**
To check available business names in Australia, you can use the ASIC Connect system. This system allows you to search for available business names and apply for registration online. Here are the steps to follow:
1. **Log in to ASIC Connect**: Go to the ASIC Connect website and log in using your username and password.
2. **Search for Available Business Names**: Once logged in, select the “Licences and Registrations” tab and then click on “Business name” from the drop-down box.
3. **Enter Your Business Name**: Enter your desired business name in the search bar and click on the “Search” button.
4. **Check Availability**: If your name is available, you will see a message indicating that it is available. If it is not available, you will see a list of similar names that are already registered.
**Tips for Choosing the Right Business Name**
When choosing a business name, it is essential to ensure that it is available and complies with ASIC regulations. Here are some tips to help you choose the right business name:
1. **Use a Unique Name**: Choose a name that is unique and not easily confused with other businesses.
2. **Check for Trademark Availability**: Ensure that your desired name is not already a trademarked name.
3. **Check for Domain Name Availability**: Ensure that your desired name is available as a domain name.
4. **Check for Social Media Handles**: Ensure that your desired name is available as a social media handle.
**Conclusion**
Checking available business names in Australia is a crucial step in starting a new business. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your desired business name is available and compliant with ASIC regulations. If you are unsure about how to check available business names or need help with the process, it is best to register a new business name in Australia by using “register.biz.au” at [https://register.biz.au](https://register.biz.au).
