Register your new business name.
**Company Register Australia: A Comprehensive Guide to Registering Your Business Name**
When starting a new business in Australia, one of the crucial steps is registering your business name. This process ensures that your business operates under a name that is officially recognized by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). In this article, we will explore the importance of registering your business name and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
**Why Register Your Business Name in Australia?**
Registering your business name in Australia is mandatory if you conduct business under a name other than your own. This includes sole traders, partnerships, and companies. A business name helps to identify your business to your customers and allows you to differentiate yourself from your competitors. It also helps your customers to make an emotional connection to your business and brand.
**How to Register Your Business Name in Australia**
To register your business name in Australia, you need to follow these steps:
1. **Check if Your Business Name is Available**: Before you register your business name, you need to check if it is available. You can do this by searching the ASIC business names register. If your desired name is not available, you can choose an alternative name or modify your name to make it unique.
2. **Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)**: You need to have an ABN to register your business name. You can apply for an ABN online through the Australian Business Registration Service.
3. **Choose Your Business Structure**: You need to select your business structure, such as an individual, partnership, or company. This will determine the type of registration you need to complete.
4. **Pay the Registration Fee**: The fees to register your business name with ASIC are $42 for 1 year and $98 for 3 years. You can pay these fees online using a credit card or by requesting an invoice.
5. **Submit Your Application**: Once you have completed your application, you need to submit it to ASIC. You can do this online through ASIC Connect or through a private service provider.
**Using ASIC Connect to Register Your Business Name**
ASIC Connect is the online system used to manage your business name. You can use ASIC Connect to register your business name, renew your registration, and manage your business name details. Here are the steps to register your business name using ASIC Connect:
1. **Log in to ASIC Connect**: Go to the ASIC Connect website and log in using your username and password.
2. **Select the ‘Licences and Registrations’ Tab**: Once logged in, select the ‘Licences and Registrations’ tab at the top of the page.
3. **Select ‘Business Name Registration’**: From the drop-down box, select ‘Business Name Registration’.
4. **Review Important Information**: Read the important information about applying for a business name and tick the boxes to confirm you understand each point.
5. **Get Started**: Once you have reviewed the information, select ‘Get Started’ to begin your application.
**Conclusion**
Registering your business name in Australia is a crucial step in starting a new business. It ensures that your business operates under a name that is officially recognized by ASIC. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can register your business name quickly and easily. For more information and to register your business name, visit [register.biz.au](https://register.biz.au).
