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Company Registration in Australia- An Overview

Are you a foreign entrepreneur looking to expand your business in Australia? If yes, you are at the right place. At Corpbiz, we assist business enthusiasts like you with online company registration in Australia, provided you meet the specific conditions to start and register a company. For instance, non-citizens require a work visa to start and run a business.

Any foreign company that does not wish to open a separate legal entity in Australia can consider establishing a branch office, where the parent company remains responsible or liable for the branch.

In addition, company registration in Australia with ASIC is mandatory, and the branch will be issued an Australian Registered Body Number (ARBN). The ASIC is the official companies’ registration office in Australia. Once a company is registered, the business is recognized as a separate legal entity under Australian law, capable of entering into contracts, owning assets, and operating independently.

If you are considering company formation in Australia, Corpbiz consultants with more than a decade of experience will ease the process for you.

Company Registration in Australia

Benefits of Company Formation in Australia

The list of benefits of company formation in Australia is as follows:

Advantages of company Setup in Australia
Access to a Stable and Growing Economy

Access to a Stable and Growing Economy

Australia offers a long-standing stable economy with consistent growth. Even during global economic uncertainty, the country’s GDP grew by 1.5% in 2023–24. This stability provides a strong foundation for both local and international businesses to thrive. Along with a robust banking sector, transparent regulatory framework, and strong consumer confidence, Australia creates an ideal environment for businesses to flourish.

Strategic Location for Asia-Pacific Trade

Strategic Location for Asia-Pacific Trade

Australia enjoys a prime geographical position as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region, one of the fastest-growing economic zones in the world. Its proximity to major Asian markets such as China, Japan, and South Korea ensures shorter delivery times and reduced shipping costs. In addition, Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with these countries provide lower tariffs and simplified trade procedures, making company incorporation in Australia highly advantageous for international businesses.

Ease of Doing Business

Ease of Doing Business

According to the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index, Australia consistently ranks among the top 20 countries worldwide. Its straightforward regulatory framework and business-friendly environment make it one of the best places to start and operate a business. As a result, company registration in Australia is generally smoother and more efficient compared to many other countries.

Government Support and Incentives

Government Support and Incentives

The Australian government is highly supportive of businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are considered the backbone of the national economy. To encourage growth and innovation, the government offers various programs and incentives such as the Research and Development (R&D) Tax Incentive and the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, which provides both funding and expert business advisory services.

Access to Skilled Talent

Access to Skilled Talent

Businesses in Australia benefit from access to a highly skilled workforce. The country places strong emphasis on higher education and vocational training, producing graduates in fields such as engineering, finance, technology, and business management. In addition, Australia’s open immigration policies make it easier for companies to recruit specialized talent from overseas.

Potential for High Returns on Investment

Potential for High Returns on Investment

The Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) ranks among the top 15 largest stock markets in the world, offering vast opportunities for businesses seeking to raise capital through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) or attract institutional investors. Listing on the ASX not only provides access to capital but also enhances a company’s credibility and trust among the public.

Quality of Life and Employee Satisfaction

Quality of Life and Employee Satisfaction

Australia is known for offering one of the best qualities of life in the world. With an excellent healthcare system, stunning natural environment, and a strong focus on work-life balance, it creates an ideal setting for both employees and businesses to thrive. It is one of the key merits of company formation in Australia.

Structures for Business Registration in Australia

The different types of structures for business registration in Australia are as follows:

  • Proprietary Limited (Pty Ltd) Company

    A Pty Ltd company is ideal for small to medium businesses and foreign entrepreneurs. It is a separate legal entity limiting shareholder liability to their contributions. A Pty Ltd can have 1–50 shareholders and must have at least one Australian-resident director.

  • Australian Public Company

    Suitable for businesses seeking to raise capital from a larger investor pool. Management is often independent of owners. Registration requires a minimum of three directors, at least two of whom must be Australian residents. These companies can sell shares to the public and list on exchanges like the ASX.

  • Australian Branch Office

    A branch office lets foreign companies establish a presence in Australia while consolidating earnings with the parent company. It is not a separate legal entity, so the parent company is fully liable for debts. A registered Australian office and a local agent are required to operate.

  • Sole Trader

    The simplest structure for online company registration, where the individual and business are the same legal entity. You have full control but unlimited personal liability for business debts. A valid visa permitting work is required to operate as a sole trader in Australia.

  • Partnerships

    Involves two or more people running a business together, sharing profits, management duties, and liabilities. In a general partnership, all partners have unlimited personal liability for business debts.

  • Australian Trust

    Common among small and family-owned businesses. Discretionary trusts are frequently used. A trust is not usually a separate tax-paying entity if all income is distributed to beneficiaries — the beneficiaries then pay tax on their share.

Eligibility Criteria for Company Incorporation in Australia

The eligibility criteria for company incorporation in Australia are as follows:

  • Minimum one shareholder
  • Minimum one foreign director
  • Must have a local company secretary
  • Must have a local registered address (either virtual or physical)
  • There is no minimum requirement of share capital for company registration in Australia
  • Must have a unique business name that is not already registered and does not closely resemble an existing company name
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Documents Required for Business Registration in Australia

Documents Required for Company Registration in Australia

The list of documents required for company registration in Australia is as follows:

  • Complete Application form
  • ACN (Australian Company Number)
  • Notarized copies of the passports of the individual shareholders and directors
  • Registered office address
  • Shareholder details
  • Any other relevant documentation according to state or territory regulation

Process of Company Registration in Australia

The step-by-step process of company registration in Australia is as follows:

DSC and DIN

Pre-Registration Essentials

Before starting the process of company registration in Australia, you must prepare a detailed business plan. This should clearly outline your intended business activities, target market, and financial and funding strategies. Additionally, it is mandatory to appoint at least one Australian-resident director.

Secure Your Business Name

The next step in the journey of company registration in Australia is to choose a unique business name. You can do this by visiting the official website of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). There, you can check the availability of your proposed name and reserve it through ASIC if it’s available.

Obtain Key Business Identifiers

Next, file an application to obtain two essential identification numbers: the Australian Company Number (ACN) and the Australian Business Number (ABN). The ACN is a unique nine-digit number assigned to every company in Australia, while the ABN is used for government dealings and tax purposes.

Complete Necessary Tax Registrations

Depending on the business scale and activities, the applicant company will need to register for a specific tax such as Goods and Services Tax (GST) mandatory for business whose annual turnover cross AUD 75,000, Pay As You Go (PAYG) Withholding in case the company is planning to hire employees, Tax File Number (TFN) is used for interacting with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Prepare and submit your application

Once you have all the required documents, a clear business plan, and an Australian resident director in place, you can move forward with filing the application for company registration in Australia. This can be done either by yourself or through an appointed agent using Form 201 with ASIC.

Company Registration Certificate

After submitting your application, you will receive an electronic registration certificate via email. This certificate serves as the official proof of your company’s existence and will include the company’s name along with its Australian Company Number (ACN).

Post Compliance for Company Formation in Australia

Once the company is registered in Australia, it must meet the post-compliance requirements to ensure the smooth functioning of the business. The list below mentions the post compliance for company formation in Australia:

Sole Trader

Annual Company Review & Payment of Fees

Every registered company in Australia must undergo an annual review with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), along with the review fees. Failure to complete this review may result in the cancellation of company registration.

Ongoing ASIC Compliance

Ongoing ASIC Compliance

Any changes to company details must be promptly reported to ASIC. Additionally, companies must maintain a registered office in Australia (a physical address) where official documents and correspondence can be delivered.

Tax and Financial Reporting

Tax and Financial Reporting

Companies registered for GST must file Business Activity Statements (BAS) either quarterly or monthly. They must also submit annual corporate tax returns to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Furthermore, accurate financial records must be maintained for at least seven years.

Additional Reporting and Licensing

Additional Reporting and Licensing

Depending on the type of business, companies may need to submit audited financial reports if certain thresholds are exceeded. Some industries also require specific permits and licenses—for example, food and beverage businesses must obtain health and safety permits from local authorities.

Start Your Australia Company Today

Tax Structure for Company Formation in Australia

Various tax structures for company formation in Australia are as follows:

Tax Structure for Company Formation in Australia
    • Income Tax

      All companies registered in Australia are required to pay corporate tax at a rate of 30%. However, small and medium-sized businesses enjoy a reduced tax rate of 25%.

    • Goods and Services Tax (GST)

      Businesses in Australia with an annual turnover of more than $75,000 must register for GST. A 10% tax is added to their sales, collected by the federal government, and later distributed to state governments.

    • Payroll Tax

      Companies whose payroll exceeds a specified threshold must pay payroll tax on employees’ salaries and wages. The threshold varies depending on the state or territory.

    • Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT)

      Employers may be required to pay 47% FBT on certain non-cash benefits provided to employees, such as company cars or low-interest loans.

    • Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

      Companies registered in Australia may be liable to pay Capital Gains Tax on profits made from the sale of assets.

Reasons to Trust Corpbiz for Company Registration in Australia

Reasons to Trust Corpbiz for Company Registration in Australia

10+ Years of Excellence

Our experienced professionals hold over a decade of expertise in assisting entrepreneurs and investors with company registration in Australia for foreigners and locals.

Consulting for Company Formation

Consulting for Company Formation

We provide expert consulting services to help you seamlessly register company name in Australia and meet all legal requirements.

Assistance in Documentation

Assistance in Documentation

We extend reliable and cost-effective assistance in preparing the documentation required to register a new company in Australia.

Evaluation & Audit

Evaluation & Audit

We offer guidance and compliance support to ensure smooth company registration in Australia aligned with ASIC regulations.

Transparency and Authenticity

Transparency and Authenticity

Our services focus on delivering transparency and authenticity while you register business name in Australia with ease.

Smooth Entry into the Australian Market

Smooth Entry into the Australian Market

We ensure hassle-free entry of your business into the Australian market without bureaucratic hurdles.

Tech-Driven Solutions

Tech-Driven Solutions

We leverage tech-enabled solutions for faster and simpler company registration in Australia for foreigners and locals.

Time and Cost Effective

Post-Registration Compliance

Our dedicated experts help your business stay compliant with ongoing tax and corporate obligations in Australia.

Expedited Registration Process

Expedited Registration Process

We assist in the timely completion of the online application, ensuring a fast and seamless registration process.

Strong Ties with Regulatory Bodies

Strong Ties with Regulatory Bodies

We maintain close coordination with ASIC and other authorities for a streamlined registration experience.

24/7 Client Assistance

24/7 Client Assistance

Our experts offer round-the-clock assistance for company registration queries, ensuring you are supported at every step.

Launch Your Company in Australia

FAQs on Company Incorporation in Australia

Yes, a non-resident or foreign national can register a company in Australia, provided they meet the essential legal requirements, such as having at least one Australian resident director (it can be a nominee). One of the most popular types of company registration in Australia is the Proprietary Limited (Pty Ltd).

The different types of business registration in Australia are Proprietary Limited (Pty Ltd) Company, Australian Public Company, Australian Branch Office, Sole Trader, Partnerships, and Australian Trust.

Yes, you need an Australian address to register a company; however, this address must be a real, physical location in Australia and not a PO Box. Meanwhile, if you are a foreigner looking to start a business in Australia, you may take help from the professionals like Corpbiz for end-to-end company registration services.

Yes, it is mandatory to have at least one Australian director for company registration in Australia. In case all directors are based outside Australia, you will need to appoint at least one director or nominee residing in Australia to comply with regulatory compliance.

Yes, you can register a company in Australia online from India or any other country, right from the comfort of your home. At Corpbiz, we assist you in ensuring a seamless company registration process in Australia.

The time required for company registration depends on the readiness of the necessary documents and preparation. However, if all documents are complete and in order, the registration process can be completed within an hour or a day through the online system provided by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

Yes, after obtaining a company registration certificate in Australia, you must apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and a Tax File Number (TFN) as part of the mandatory post-registration compliance requirements. Additionally, if your company’s annual turnover exceeds AUD 75,000, you are required to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST).

It depends on the bank. Some banks in Australia allow remote business account opening, while others require at least one director to be physically present for identification. Meanwhile, some foreign banks opt for a fintech banking platform or work with banks that have a global branch.

Yes, to ensure smooth business operations in Australia, companies must comply with annual requirements such as conducting an annual review, paying ASIC annual review fees, maintaining updated financial records, lodging Business Activity Statements (BAS) if registered for GST, and filing annual tax returns.

Yes, you can hire employees in Australia after registering your company, but you must also register with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for PAYG withholding, pay superannuation contributions, and obtain workers’ compensation insurance in the state where your employees are based.

Authors

Written by Aarya Pokharel. Last updated on Nov 11 2025, 09:56 PM

Aarya Pokharel brings 3 years of solid experience in legal research and compliance. Her expertise spans tax filing, secretarial compliances, and advisory services, with a strong focus on delivering precise legal research and strategic advisory support.

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