Explore our guides on ABN, TFN, and GST registration for the latest news, articles, and insights, tailored for Australian businesses. Stay informed and compliant with expert advice.
Apr. 5, 2026
Makeup artists in Australia may be entitled to an Australian Business Number (ABN) when they are carrying on or starting an enterprise, but receiving payment for makeup services does not automatically establish ABN entitlement. The key question is how the activity is actually operated. An independent makeup artist who finds clients, sets prices, promotes services and manages bookings may be carrying on a business, while an employee working for a salon or production company is treated differently. This guide explains how the ABN rules can apply to freelance, mobile, home-based and contracting makeup artists, how GST registration is separate from ABN entitlement, when a business name may be required, and what to consider before applying.
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Apr. 3, 2026
If you walk dogs or provide pet sitting services in Australia, you may need an Australian Business Number (ABN) if your activity is carried on as a business or enterprise. The fact that you work casually, from home or for private customers does not by itself determine whether you need an ABN. The Australian Business Register looks at how the activity operates, including its commercial purpose, regularity, organisation and whether you are genuinely carrying on or starting an enterprise. This guide explains how the rules can apply to dog walkers and pet sitters, how a hobby differs from a business, what GST means for pet services and what records to keep.
Apr. 1, 2026
If you work as a virtual assistant in Australia, you may need an Australian Business Number (ABN) when your services are carried on as a business or enterprise. The key issue is not simply how much you earn or whether you work from home. What matters is how your virtual assistant activity operates, including whether you find clients, set your fees, provide services independently, keep business records and operate with a commercial purpose. This guide explains when an ABN may apply, how employment differs from genuine contracting, what business structure may suit an individual virtual assistant, when GST registration becomes relevant and what records to keep.
Mar. 24, 2026
If you work as a photographer in Australia, you may need an Australian Business Number (ABN) when your photography activity is carried on as a business or enterprise. The way you work matters: an employee of a photography studio is treated differently from an independent photographer who finds clients, sets prices and manages their own business. This guide explains when photographers may be entitled to an ABN, how employment differs from genuine contracting, what business structure may apply, when GST registration becomes relevant, and what records and expenses photographers should consider.
Mar. 22, 2026
If you earn money through social media in Australia, you may wonder whether you need an Australian Business Number (ABN). Influencers and content creators can receive income from brand collaborations, sponsorships, advertising, affiliate arrangements, subscriptions or other commercial activities, but having a social media account does not automatically mean you are carrying on a business. The key question is how your activity operates and whether it amounts to carrying on or starting an enterprise. This guide explains when an ABN may apply, how hobby and business activities differ, what GST means for creators, and what to consider before applying.
Mar. 21, 2026
If you earn money by hosting guests through Airbnb or another short-term accommodation platform in Australia, you may wonder whether you need an Australian Business Number (ABN). The answer depends on what you are actually doing with the property and whether your activity amounts to carrying on or starting an enterprise. Many people who rent out a room or home are dealing with rental income rather than a separate business, while other accommodation operators may have a business structure and different obligations. This guide explains how ABN entitlement can apply to short-term accommodation, what GST means for residential rent, and when your circumstances may require closer review.
Mar. 18, 2026
If you work as a dog groomer in Australia, whether you need an Australian Business Number (ABN) depends on how you operate your grooming activity. An employee working for a grooming salon or pet business is generally treated differently from a groomer who runs an independent mobile service, home-based business, salon or contracting operation. The key question is whether you are carrying on or starting an enterprise, rather than simply whether you receive payments. This guide explains when an ABN may apply, how employment and genuine business activity differ, and what independent dog groomers should consider when setting up, invoicing, registering for GST and choosing a business name.
Mar. 16, 2026
If you work as a hairdresser in Australia, whether you need an Australian Business Number (ABN) depends on how you operate your work. A hairdresser employed by a salon is generally in a different position from a hairdresser who runs an independent business, rents a chair, visits clients, or provides services under a genuine contracting arrangement. The important question is whether you are carrying on or starting an enterprise, rather than simply how much you earn. This guide explains when an ABN may apply, how employee and contractor arrangements differ, and what independent hairdressers should consider for invoicing, GST, business names and registration.
Mar. 14, 2026
If you provide tutoring services online in Australia, you may need an Australian Business Number (ABN) if your tutoring activity is being carried on as a business or enterprise. The key question is not simply how much you earn, but how you operate your tutoring activity. Regular paid lessons, advertising your services, setting your own fees and keeping business records can all be relevant when determining whether you are carrying on a business.
Mar. 12, 2026
Freelance graphic designers in Australia may need an ABN when they operate independently as a business rather than as employees. Understanding when an ABN applies can help you manage your freelance design work, invoicing and tax obligations correctly. This guide explains how ABN requirements can apply to graphic designers, how employment differs from independent contracting, and what to consider when choosing a business structure. It also covers GST registration, common business expenses, record keeping and the steps involved in applying for an ABN when you are eligible.