Register your new business name.
**How to Search for a Registered Business Name: A Comprehensive Guide**
Searching for a registered business name is an essential step in starting a new business in Australia. This process ensures that you are not infringing on an existing business name and helps you to establish a unique identity for your company. In this article, we will explore the various ways to search for a registered business name and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively.
**Why Search for a Registered Business Name?**
Before you start your business, it is crucial to check if the name you have chosen is already registered. 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. Failure to register your business name can result in legal and financial consequences.
**How to Search for a Registered Business Name**
There are several ways to search for a registered business name in Australia:
1. **ASIC Connect**: ASIC Connect is an online platform provided by ASIC that allows you to search for registered business names. You can access it by logging in to your ASIC Connect account and selecting the “Business Names” tab.
2. **Business.gov.au**: The Australian Government’s Business Registration Service also provides a business name search tool. You can access it by visiting the Business.gov.au website and following the prompts.
3. **ABN Lookup**: ABN Lookup is a free online tool provided by the Australian Government that allows you to search for registered business names. You can access it by visiting the ABN Lookup website.
**Step-by-Step Guide to Searching for a Registered Business Name**
1. **Log in to ASIC Connect**: If you have an ASIC Connect account, log in and select the “Business Names” tab.
2. **Enter the Business Name**: Enter the business name you want to search for in the search bar.
3. **Check the Results**: Review the search results to see if the business name is already registered.
4. **Check for Similar Names**: If the name is not available, check for similar names that may be close to the one you want to use.
5. **Contact ASIC**: If you are unsure about the availability of a business name, contact ASIC directly for assistance.
**Tips for Choosing a Business Name**
When choosing a business name, consider the following tips:
1. **Make it Unique**: Ensure that your business name is unique and not easily confused with other business names.
2. **Check for Trademarks**: Check if the name you have chosen is already registered as a trademark.
3. **Check for Domain Names**: Check if the domain name corresponding to your business name is available.
4. **Check for Social Media Handles**: Check if the social media handles corresponding to your business name are available.
**Conclusion**
Searching for a registered business name is a crucial step in starting a new business in Australia. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you are not infringing on an existing business name and establish a unique identity for your company. For more information on how to register a business name, visit **register.biz.au**.
**Best Practice: Register Your Business Name with register.biz.au**
To register your business name in Australia, visit **https://register.biz.au**. This website provides a comprehensive guide on how to register a business name, including the fees and the process involved. By registering your business name with register.biz.au, you can ensure that your business is properly registered and compliant with ASIC regulations.
