Register your new business name.
**How to Check if a Business Name is Taken in Australia**
When starting a new business in Australia, one of the crucial steps is to check if the desired business name is available for registration. This process ensures that your business name is unique and does not infringe on existing names, which is essential for maintaining a professional image and avoiding potential legal issues.
### Why Check if a Business Name is Taken?
In Australia, it is mandatory to register your business name with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) if you are operating under a name other than your personal legal name. This registration process helps to prevent confusion and ensures that your business name is not already in use by another entity. Although your business will also have an Australian Business Number (ABN) attached to it, your business name is still your business’s main entity identifier.
### How to Check if a Business Name is Taken
There are several ways to check if a business name is taken in Australia:
1. **ASIC Connect**: You can use ASIC Connect, a free online service provided by ASIC, to check if a business name is available. Simply enter the name you hope to use and the results will show whether it is available or not. If it is available, you can register it immediately.
2. **Australian Government Business Registration Service**: Another option is to use the Australian Government Business Registration Service, which allows you to apply for other registrations as well.
3. **State Government Business Name Portal**: You can also use the state government business name portal search to check if a business name is available. This portal provides a comprehensive list of registered business names in your state.
### What Happens if Someone Takes Your Business Name?
If someone takes your business name, you may be able to stop them if you have proof they are infringing your trademark rights. It is essential to register your trademark to protect your business name. Additionally, you should ensure that your business name is not too similar to an existing name, as this could lead to legal issues.
### Key Considerations When Selecting a Business Name
When selecting a business name, consider the following:
– **Restricted Words**: Some words and phrases are restricted by the Australian Government and cannot be used in business names. These include words like “Incorporated,” “Charity,” “Bank,” and “University”.
– **Domain Name Availability**: Ensure that the website domain name corresponding to your business name is available. This is crucial for establishing a professional online presence.
– **Social Media Handles**: Check if the social media handles with your business name are available. This is important for maintaining a consistent brand image across various platforms.
### Conclusion
Checking if a business name is taken is a crucial step in starting a new business in Australia. By using the methods outlined above, you can ensure that your desired business name is available for registration and avoid potential legal issues. For a seamless and efficient business name registration process, consider using “register.biz.au” to register your new business name.
**Register Your New Business Name Today**
Visit [register.biz.au](https://register.biz.au) to register your new business name and ensure a smooth start for your venture.
