Register your new business name.
**Checking ABN Availability: A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Businesses**
When starting a new business in Australia, one of the crucial steps is to ensure that your business name is available. This involves checking the availability of your desired business name and ensuring that it does not infringe on any existing trademarks or business names. In this article, we will explore the importance of checking ABN availability and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
**Why Check ABN Availability?**
Checking ABN availability is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that your business name is unique and does not conflict with any existing business names. Secondly, it helps to avoid any potential legal issues that may arise from using a name that is already registered by another business. Finally, checking ABN availability helps to ensure that your business name is compliant with Australian business registration regulations.
**How to Check ABN Availability**
There are several ways to check ABN availability in Australia. One of the most convenient methods is to use the Australian Business Number (ABN) Lookup tool provided by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). This tool allows you to search for an ABN by name, which includes checking the availability of your desired business name.
Another method is to use the Business Registration Service provided by the Australian Government. This service allows you to apply for an ABN and register your business name online. You can also use this service to check the availability of your desired business name before applying.
**Using ASIC Connect**
ASIC Connect is an online system used to manage your business name. You can use this system to check the availability of your desired business name and apply for registration. To do this, follow these steps:
1. **Log in to ASIC Connect**: Visit 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. **Check Availability**: Enter your desired business name and check if it is available. If it is not available, you can choose an alternative name.
**Using a Private Service Provider**
Alternatively, you can use a private service provider (PSP) to check ABN availability. PSPs are authorized by ASIC to provide business registration services. They can help you check the availability of your desired business name and apply for registration on your behalf.
**Conclusion**
Checking ABN availability is a crucial step in starting a new business in Australia. By using the methods outlined above, you can ensure that your business name is unique and compliant with Australian business registration regulations. For more information on how to register a new business name in Australia, visit [register.biz.au](https://register.biz.au).
