Choosing a Company Name
  • Select a unique name that isn't already registered to another company or business
  • Ensure the name shows the legal status of the company, e.g., "My Business Pty Ltd"
  • Use ASIC's name availability search to check availability
Registering Your Company
  • Register through the Business Registration Service or a private service provider (PSP)
  • Decide whether your company will be proprietary or public
  • Understand your legal obligations as a company director
Director Identification Number (DIN)
  • Apply for a DIN if you're a director of a company, registered foreign company, or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation
  • Get consent from officeholders, members, and occupiers
Company Structure and Governance
  • Decide how your company will operate and be governed
  • Choose between replaceable rules or a constitution
  • Determine share structure and ensure compliance with the Corporations Act
Registration Process
  • Register online through the Business Registration Service (takes around 15 minutes)
  • Receive confirmation in 2 business days if all documents are provided and fees are paid
  • Get an Australian Company Number (ACN) and apply for an ABN
Post-Registration
  • Display the company name and ACN/ABN on documents and premises
  • Keep company details up-to-date and maintain records
  • Pay annual company fees and pass a solvency resolution ¹ ²
Types of Companies:
  • Proprietary Company: Limited by shares or unlimited company with share capital
  • Public Company: Listed on the stock exchange or unlisted
  • Not-for-Profit or Charitable Organisations: Registered under specific laws and regulations
  • Indigenous Corporations: Registered with the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC)
Cost and Timeframe:
  • Registration cost varies depending on company type
  • Registration timeframe: around 15 minutes online, 2 business days for confirmation ¹

     
    Registering a Company in Australia
    To register a company in Australia, you'll need to provide certain documents and pay the required fees. Here's what you need to know:
    Documents Needed
    • Company Name: You'll need to choose a unique name for your company that's not already registered. You can check availability using ASIC's name availability search.
    • Director Identification Number (DIN): All directors will need a DIN, which can be applied for online.
    • Company Structure and Governance: Decide whether your company will be proprietary or public, and choose between replaceable rules or a constitution.
    Registration Costs
    • Registration Fees: The cost of registering a company in Australia varies depending on the type of company:
      • Public Company with Share Capital: $597
      • Public Company Limited by Guarantee: $491
      • Proprietary Company: $597
    • Annual Review Fees: You'll need to pay annual review fees to keep your company registered. The fee amount depends on the type of company and scheme.
    Additional Costs
    • Late Fees: If you lodge documents late or don't pay fees on time, you may incur additional fees:
      • Lodgement or Payment up to One Month Late: $96
      • Lodgement or Payment over One Month Late: $401
    • Other Fees: ASIC charges fees for various services, including reserving a company name ($61) and applying for relief from financial reporting requirements ($3,487) ¹ ².
    Registration Process
    • Online Registration: You can register your company online through the Business Registration Service or a private service provider (PSP).
    • Processing Time: Registration typically takes around 15 minutes online, and you'll receive confirmation within 2 business days if all documents are provided and fees are paid ³.