Australian Company and Company Name Registration

Company Registration

To set up a company, it must be registered under the Corporations Act 2001. You can register these types of companies here:

• Proprietary limited companies (also known as private companies) - the most common company structure used by small businesses
• Public companies limited by shares or guarantee
• Public companies with no liability
• Special purpose companies (not for profit, home unit/body corporate, superannuation trustee)

To register a private or public company that's unlimited (where the liability of shareholders is unlimited), you need to apply:

• by using our form Business Registration ABN Registrar

Fees

The fees you pay depend on the type of company you're registering. Pricing will show up at the end of the business form registration:

Before You Register

Before you register a company, you need to:

• Choose a company name, you will be prompted to choose one during the registration
• Decide whether your company will be proprietary or public
• Work out who the directors and shareholders will be
• Understand your legal obligations as a director and shareholder

To find out more, read Understand your legal obligations as a director and shareholder.

After You Register

When registered, the company will:

• Get a unique Australian Company Number (ACN) and a Certificate of Registration
• Appear in the company register
• Be required to complete an annual review and pay an annual review fee each year (see annual statements on the ASIC website)
• Be required to tell ASIC of changes in company details, usually within 28 days of the change taking place (otherwise, late fees may apply - see changes to your company on the ASIC website)

To find out what company information is available to the public in the company register, go to companies and organisations.

FAQ

What is a company?

A company is a type of business structure that creates a legal entity separate from its owners. This separation provides limited liability protection to its shareholders, meaning they are not personally liable for the company's debts.

How do I register a company in Australia?

To register a company in Australia, you need to comply with the Corporations Act 2001 and register the company with the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC). You can do this online through the ABN Registrar website.

What types of companies can be registered in Australia?

To register a company in Australia, you need to comply with the Corporations Act 2001 and register the company with the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC). You can do this online through the ABN Registrar website.

What types of companies can be registered in Australia?

You can register proprietary limited companies (private companies), public companies limited by shares or guarantee, public companies with no liability, and special purpose companies (such as not-for-profits or superannuation trustees).

What fees are involved in registering a company?

The fees for registering a company vary depending on the type of company. There is a one-off registration fee and an annual review fee. For detailed fee information, start your registration on ABN Registrar form.

What information do I need to provide when registering a company?

When registering a company, you need to choose a company name, decide on the type of company, appoint directors and shareholders, and understand your legal obligations. You will also need to provide this information to ABN Registrar during the registration process.

What happens after I register my company?

Once registered, your company will receive a unique Australian Company Number (ACN) and a Certificate of Registration. It will be listed in the company register, and you will need to complete an annual review and update ASIC with any changes to company details.