Register your new business name.
**How to Check If a Business Name is Registered in Australia**
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 unique and distinct name, differentiating it from other businesses. In this article, we will explore the steps to check if a business name is registered in Australia.
### Checking Business Name Availability
Before registering a business name, it is essential to check if the name is available. You can do this by using the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Business Name Register. This register allows you to search for business names and check if they are available for registration. You can access the ASIC Business Name Register through their website or by contacting them directly.
### Conducting a Comprehensive Search
Conducting a comprehensive search is crucial to avoid any potential conflicts with existing businesses. This includes checking if the name is already registered in another state or territory, as well as ensuring it does not infringe on any registered trademarks.
### Interpreting Search Results
When conducting a search, you will typically receive one of three results:
1. **Green**: The name is available for registration.
2. **Amber**: The name requires manual review by ASIC.
3. **Red**: The name is not available for registration due to existing conflicts.
### What to Do If the Name is Taken
If the name you want is not available, you can try altering it to make it unique. For example, if you want to register “Bunch of Apples,” you could try “Sam’s Bunch of Apples”. If you are unsure about the availability of a name, you can also use online tools like the ABN Lookup or the ASIC Business Name Register to check if the name is available.
### Registering a Business Name
Once you have chosen a unique and available business name, you can register it through ASIC. The registration process involves providing your business structure, ABN, and other required details. You can apply for a business name and other key business registrations through the Business Registration Service.
### Fees and Payment Options
The fees for registering a business name with ASIC are:
– $42 for 1 year
– $98 for 3 years
### Conclusion
In conclusion, checking if a business name is registered in Australia involves a comprehensive search using ASIC’s Business Name Register and other online tools. If the name is not available, you can alter it to make it unique. Once you have chosen an available name, you can register it through ASIC. For more information on registering a business name in Australia, visit **register.biz.au**.
