Engage local expert support
Partner with local professionals who understand Australian business registration, compliance, and governance processes to ensure a smooth setup experience.
Company Registration in Australia – Fast, Online & Fully Managed by Experts
Setting up or registering a company in Australia is simple when handled by professionals who understand the process inside out. At RBizz Corporate Accountants, we make it effortless for international entrepreneurs and investors to register a company in Australia online. From choosing the right structure to meeting ASIC and ATO requirements, we manage every step with precision. Whether you want to start a company in Australia, open a branch, or form a new entity, our seamless company registration services ensure full compliance and quick turnaround, allowing you to focus on building your business success.
Requirement
What it is / Why needed
Company structure & type
Most common: Proprietary Limited (Pty Ltd). It limits liability and is suitable for private businesses.
Company name
Must be unique and comply with ASIC naming rules (e.g., include “Pty Ltd”, avoid restricted words).
Registered office & principal place of business
Provide a registered address in Australia (for legal notices) and a principal business address (can differ).
Directors & secretaries
Appoint at least one director (for a Pty Ltd, the director must ordinarily reside in Australia). Supply full details (name, address, date of birth).
Shareholders & share structure
Define total shares, share classes, holders, and nominal value.
Director Identification Number (Director ID)
New directors must apply for a Director ID before or upon becoming a director.
Consents & documentation
Written consent from officeholders, a constitution or adoption of replaceable rules, and details of officeholders must be lodged with ASIC.
Fees & lodgement
Pay the ASIC registration fee. Usually lodged via the Business Registration Service / ASIC portal.
If your company is foreign (i.e. incorporated overseas) but wishes to conduct business in Australia, you must register as a foreign foreign
company with ASIC (obtaining an ARBN) and comply with additional reporting obligations. (ASIC)
1Name check & reservation (optional)
- Search ASIC registers to confirm the name is available.
- Reserve the name if you’re not ready to lodge yet.
- 2
Prepare company particulars & structure
- Decide shareholders, share classes, directors, and constitution/replaceable rules.
- Gather IDs, addresses, and written consents.
- 3
Apply for Director IDs
- Each proposed director must have (or apply for) a Director ID.
4Lodge incorporation with ASIC
- Submit via ASIC portal / Business Registration Service and pay fees.
- On approval, you receive an ACN and certificate of registration.
- 5
Post-registration formalities
- Get ABN/TFN; add GST if required; set up PAYG as needed.
- Open bank accounts, adopt constitution, issue share certificates, maintain registers, etc.
- 6
Ongoing obligations commence
- Pay annual ASIC review fees; notify ASIC of company changes.
- Keep records, lodge financials when required, hold meetings, and comply with the Corporations Act.
Limited liability protection
Personal assets are generally protected against the company’s debts (within legal boundaries).
Separate legal entity
The company can enter contracts, own assets, sue and be sued in its own name.
Reputation and credibility
Having “Pty Ltd” in Australia raises trust among clients, suppliers, and financiers.
Access to capital & growth structures
Easier to bring in new investors, issue shares, and expand operations.
Tax planning opportunities & flexibility
Australian tax laws and double tax treaties permit efficient structuring.
Stable legal & regulatory environment
Australia has strong rule of law, transparent governance, and a well-developed economy.
Gateway to Asia-Pacific markets
Being based in Australia offers strategic proximity to fast-growing neighbouring economies.
Prepare backup names
Have a few alternative business names ready in case your preferred one is unavailable or conflicts with existing trademarks or ASIC restrictions.
Use nominee / local director arrangements
If you do not have an Australian-resident director, engage a qualified local nominee or director service to meet ASIC’s legal requirements.
Check name against trademarks
Before registration, verify your proposed business name with IP Australia’s trademark database to avoid infringement or disputes.
Plan the share structure simply
Start with a clear, flexible shareholding arrangement that allows future investors or partners to join easily without restructuring later.
Anticipate compliance costs
Budget for ASIC fees, tax registrations, annual reviews, and accounting services early to maintain compliance from the start.
Obtain necessary licences & permits early
Identify required state or federal licences for your industry and secure them before you start trading to prevent costly delays.
Understand foreign investment screening
Determine if your business falls under FIRB review to ensure compliance with foreign investment regulations before investing in Australia.
Ensure a seamless and compliant company registration process by following key strategic steps designed for international and local investors alike.
1
Engage local expert support
Use professional services to handle ASIC lodgements, structure advice, and compliance setup.
2
Prepare backup names
Always have alternative name ideas in case your first choice is unavailable or fails ASIC’s tests.
3
Use nominee / local director arrangements
If foreign investors lack an Australian-resident director, engage a trusted nominee or director service.
4
Check name against trademarks
Search IP Australia’s trademark register to ensure your proposed name does not infringe.
5
Plan the share structure simply
Start with a straightforward allocation; add complexity later as the business grows.
6
Anticipate compliance costs
Budget for audit, accounting, ASIC fees, reporting, bookkeeping, and related obligations.
7
Obtain necessary licences / permits early
Some industries require extra regulatory, environmental, or licensing approvals before trading.
8
Understand foreign investment screening
For sensitive sectors or land acquisitions, FIRB review may be mandatory—factor into timelines.
Overall, registering and setting up a company in Australia is a well-established process — but it must be done correctly to unlock all its benefits and avoid regulatory pitfalls. As you proceed, ensure rigorous professional support, clarity of structure, and full compliance from day one.
FAQs — Business Registration in Australia for Foreign Clients
Can a foreigner register a company in Australia?
Answer: Yes — non-residents and companies incorporated overseas can establish or register a company in Australia. Requirements include:
- At least one director must ordinarily reside in Australia.
- Foreign companies may need to register with ASIC for an ARBN.
- Certified incorporation documents and a local agent may be required.
What is a foreign company, and when must it register with ASIC?
Answer: A foreign company is incorporated outside Australia but carries on business within the country. Such companies must register with ASIC and obtain an ARBN.
They must maintain a registered office, appoint a local agent, and lodge required documents.
How long does it take to register a company in Australia?
Answer: Typically 1–2 business days once all information is complete. Delays occur if documentation is incorrect, names conflict, or additional verifications are needed.
What are the costs involved in registering a company?
Answer: Costs include ASIC registration fees, document certification, translations, nominee director fees (if required), and service provider charges depending on your needs.
Do I need to be in Australia during registration?
Answer: No — company registration can be completed remotely using certified or attested documents.
What documents are required for registration?
Answer: Typical requirements include:
- Proposed company name
- Director & shareholder details
- Proof of identity
- Constitution or replaceable rules
- Registered office address
- Consent forms
- For foreign companies: incorporation certificate & appointment of local agent
Can I use a virtual address or PO Box as the registered office?
Answer: No — ASIC requires a physical address for the registered office. A genuine virtual office may be acceptable, but not a PO Box.
Must at least one director be an Australian resident?
Answer: Yes — a proprietary company must have at least one Australian-resident director.
If all directors are overseas, a nominee/resident director service is required.
What ongoing compliance is required after registration?
Answer: Ongoing obligations include:
- Annual ASIC review & fee
- Maintaining company registers
- Financial reports & audits (if required)
- Lodging changes with ASIC
- Holding board/shareholder meetings
Do I need a visa or permit to run a company in Australia?
Answer: Yes — if living or working in Australia. A business-related visa may be required. You can register remotely, but operating from Australia requires proper immigration status.
How do I choose a company name, and can I reserve it?
Answer: Names must comply with ASIC rules. You may reserve a name for up to 2 months before registering.
What if ASIC rejects or queries my application?
Answer: Rejections occur due to incorrect details, name conflicts, missing certifications, or invalid director IDs.
You must provide clarifications or corrected documents before approval.
Do I also need an ABN or GST registration?
Answer: Yes, in most cases:
- ABN is required for business activity, invoicing & GST credits.
- GST registration is required if turnover exceeds AUD 75,000.
What about foreign investment screening or restrictions?
Answer: Certain acquisitions or industries require FIRB approval. This applies especially to property, finance, telecommunications, and sensitive sectors.
