4 key steps when setting up your business

ABN, GST, TFN - setting up a business can be a minefield of confusing acronyms. Here’s what they all mean, plus four key steps you should take to get you on your way.

1. Register a business name

Unless you plan to trade under your legal name, you’ll need to decide on a business or company name. Think about making it catchy, easy to recall, and logical to spell (so customers can Google you). Then you should:

 

• Check the National Names Index to see if the business name you want is available.
• Register your business name in each state or territory you intend to trade in (only for sole traders, partnerships and trusts; a registered company does not need to register a business name).
• Register a domain name that’s the same or similar to your business name.

2. Apply for an ABN, and potentially an ACN and TFN

ABN:

An Australian Business Number (ABN) helps identify your business in public records and facilitates interactions with banks, the tax office (for GST registration), and other government departments. If you’re required to be registered for GST (see below) you must have an ABN. But even if you don’t charge GST, you should still feature an ABN on purchase orders and invoices – otherwise those paying you may be obliged to withhold tax at the highest marginal rate.

 

ACN and TFN:

If you plan on operating as an incorporated entity, the company needs to be registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. ASIC issues an Australian Company Number (ACN) for use in all business transactions. You need this before applying for an ABN.

 

Additionally, partnerships, trusts and companies need a separate tax file number (TFN) to do business. (Sole traders use their personal TFN when dealing with any business tax matters).

 

You can apply for an ABN and TFN through the Australian Business Register.

3. Register for GST

If you think your business will earn $75,000 or more, you’ll need to register for GST (goods and services tax) through the ATO. GST matters can vary by business type but in broad terms, the 10% GST you levy on customers is generally offset against any GST you incur in doing business. Then any difference is calculated when completing your business activity statement (BAS).

 

There are a few other reasons why businesses might register for GST. Check with your tax adviser about your particular situation.

4. Open a separate business bank account

Tax time can be simpler if you separate your business income and expenses from your personal finances. Plus, separate accounts give you more control of your cash flow with better visibility of ways to cut costs and increase profits. Learn more in our 4 reasons to separate business banking from personal article.

 

How do I open a business bank account in Australia?

As long as your business operates in Australia and you’re over 18, you should be able to apply for a business account online or drop into any branch. Get tips on choosing the right types of account in our How to set up business banking article.

 

What do I need to open a business bank account?

Most types of business - plus trusts, not-for-profits and associations - can apply for most Westpac business accounts online. Before you apply, have two of these handy:

• Australian driver licence
• Medicare card
• Passport
• Australian birth certificate
  

New customers with two or more signatories will need an ID and document check in branch before they can complete account activation. Find out what information Westpac needs from new customers.

 

What should I look for when opening a business bank account?

Some things you may wish to consider:

• The way you mainly bank, such as all online or by app, or mostly in branch
• Transaction fees and other costs
• The services you’ll want, such as connecting to accounting software
• Ability to add a debit card, cheque book, or overdraft facility
• The eligibility of the account to receive settlements from a merchant facility such as an EFTPOS machine.

 

Next steps: Watch our Getting started in business webinar

This webinar is produced by the Davidson Institute, Westpac's home of free financial education resources, building confidence today for a better financial future.