Company Registration in Australia- An Overview

Aspect Details
Timeline for Company Registration in Australia The timeline for company registration in Australia is 2 to 4 weeks
Benefits of Company Formation in Australia The list of benefits of company formation in Australia is as follows:
  • Access to a Stable and Growing Economy
  • Strategic Location for Asia-Pacific Trade
  • Ease of Doing Business
  • Government Support and Incentives
  • Access to Skilled Talent
  • Potential for High Returns on Investment
Types of Entities for online business registration in Australia Types of entities for company registration in Australia are as follows:
  • Australian LLC
  • Proprietary Company (Pty Ltd)
  • Australian Public Company
  • Australian Branch Office
  • Partnership Firm
  • Australian Representative Office
  • Trust
Eligibility Criteria for Company Registration in Australia The eligibility criteria for company registration in Australia are as follows:
  • At least one director must be an Australian resident.
  • At least one company secretary, who can be an Australian resident.
  • No minimum share capital requirement.
  • Must have a registered office in Australia.
  • Must be unique and not resemble an existing company name.
  • Foreign companies must register with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
Documents Required for Company Formation in Australia The list of documents required for company formation in Australia:
  • Passport (for foreign shareholders and directors)
  • ACN (Australian Company Number)
  • Constitution or replaceable rules
  • Registered office address
  • Shareholders details
  • Signed Consent Form from all Directors and Shareholders
  • Any other relevant documentation as per the state or territory regulations.
Procedure for Online Business Registration in Australia The procedure for online business registration in Australia is as follows:
  • Choose the Type of Company
  • Business Name Registration Australia
  • Select a Registered Office Address
  • Appoint a Local Nominee Director
  • Apply for a Director’s Identification Number (DIN)
  • Apply for an Australian Company Number (ACN)
  • Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • Acquire the Certificate of Incorporation
How can we help you with Company Formation in Australia? At Enterslice, we ensure a smooth and efficient company registration in Australia for foreigners:
  • Right business structure selection
  • Register company name Australia
  • Quick name registration & bank setup
  • 98% filing accuracy
  • Trade license & tax support
  • End-to-End Assistance

Effortless Business Registration in Australia with Enterslice

Register your business in Australia smoothly with Enterslice for fast approvals, expert assistance, and get complete compliance support.

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Understanding Company Registration in Australia

Australia has one of the world’s strongest economies, welcoming foreign investment to drive growth. With a GDP of $1.78 trillion and a thriving consumer market, company registration in Australia opens the door for vast business opportunities and global market access.

If you're an entrepreneur looking to expand, company registration in Australia, especially in Sydney, offers a strategic advantage. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) manages company registrations, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. Ready to start your business in Australia? Enterslice provides expert support for company registration in Australia. Leverage natural resources, R&D tax incentives, startup accelerator programs, and government grants to turn your business vision into reality! Given below are some of the major criteria to register a new company in Australia:

No minimum Share Capital

100% Foreign Ownership

30% Corporate Tax Rate

Local Registered Address (virtual or Physical)

Local Company Secretary

Minimum one director (Australian resident)

Types of Structures for Business Registration in Australia

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

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Australian LLC

An Australian Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a popular business structure that provides liability protection for its members. As a separate legal entity, it ensures that the owner's personal assets remain protected from the company’s debts and obligations. It is one of the preferred business structures for company registration in Australia.

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Proprietary Company (Pty Ltd)

One of the most preferred business structures in Australia, a Proprietary Limited Company (Pty Ltd) operates similarly to a limited liability company. It allows 100% foreign ownership with a minimum share capital of $1. At least one resident director is required if a nominee director is not appointed, making it an ideal choice for foreign investors.

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Australian Public Company

An Australian Public Company is suitable for businesses seeking investment from a broader pool of investors. Management and ownership are separate, requiring at least three directors, two of whom must be Australian residents. Additionally, a Company Secretary and Public Officer must be appointed to handle tax-related matters.

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Australian Branch Office

A Branch Office enables foreign companies to establish a presence in Australia. It must be registered with ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission) and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). A local agent is required to handle official communications, and the branch is subject to Australian taxes on locally generated income. It must also submit annual financial reports to ASIC.

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Partnership Firm

A Partnership is commonly used by professionals such as lawyers and accountants. It requires at least one Australian resident partner. While the partnership itself is not taxed on profits, partners must declare their earnings and pay personal income tax.

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Australian Representative Office

A Representative Office is designed for non-commercial activities, making it ideal for market research or business expansion. It offers a simple registration process, but businesses cannot engage in commercial activities under this structure.

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Trust

A Trust is commonly used by family-owned businesses. It is not considered a legal entity and does not pay taxes as long as earnings are distributed to beneficiaries. Establishing a trust requires a trust deed, which outlines its operations and beneficiaries.

Benefits of Company Registration in Australia for Foreigners

The list of benefits of company registration in Australia for foreigners is as follows:

Access to a Stable and Growing Economy

Australia has a stable and consistent economic growth. Its current GDP is 1.73 lakh crores USD. Even during the global economic uncertainty, it has shown a remarkable resilience.

Strategic Location for Asia-Pacific Trade

Australia is strategically located as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region. Registering a business in Australia provides a competitive advantage, offering easy access to major Asian markets like China, Japan, and South Korea.

Ease of Doing Business

Australia has consistently ranked among the top 20 in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index. It offers a straightforward regulatory framework and a business-friendly environment, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.

Government Support and Incentives

The Australian government actively supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through various programs and incentives aimed at fostering growth and success. These include Research and Development (R&D) Tax Incentives and Entrepreneurial Support Programs, among others.

Access to Skilled Talent

Australia boasts a highly skilled workforce in engineering, finance, technology, and business management. The country places a strong emphasis on higher education and vocational training, ensuring a well-equipped talent pool for businesses.

Potential for High Returns on Investment

The Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) ranks among the top 15 largest stock markets globally, offering businesses excellent opportunities to raise capital through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) or attract institutional investments.

Procedure for Online Business Registration in Australia

Have a look at the stepwise process for online business registration in Australia-

Choose the Type of Company

First, the applicant must choose the right business structure based on their needs. If the business is a proprietary company, it must include the word "Proprietary" or its abbreviation "Pty" in its name. The business can also use its Australian Company Number (ACN) as its name. The ACN is a unique number issued by ASIC.

Business Name Registration Australia

Next, the applicant must choose a unique and available name before applying for company registration in Australia. The name should be short, distinct, and free from offensive words or misspellings.

Select a Registered Office Address

Every Australian company must have a registered office address for receiving legal documents, notices, and government communications. This address can be a physical or virtual office but must be located within Australia.

Appoint a Local Nominee Director

For a foreign business owner, Australian laws require at least one local (Australian) director to establish a company.

Apply for a Director’s Identification Number (DIN)

Every company director in Australia must obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN) and submit it through the Australian Business Register. The DIN helps identify directors and promotes transparency in the business world.

Apply for an Australian Company Number (ACN)

In this stage, the applicant must obtain ACN (Australian Company Number), a unique nine-digit identifier for your company. This ACN number is required when an applicant company registers with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). It is one of the important steps for forming a company legally in Australia.

Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)

Obtain an Australian Business Number, a unique number that businesses in Australia use for tax and identification purposes. This ABN number is important for dealing with the Australian Taxation Office.

Acquire the Certificate of Incorporation from ASIC

After a thorough review by the relevant authority, ASIC issues a Certificate of Incorporation to the applicant company. This official document confirms that the company is legally registered and ready to operate in Australia.

Eligibility Criteria for Company Registration in Australia

The list of eligibility criteria for online company registration in Australia is as follows:

Director

The company must have a minimum of one director (must be an Australian resident)

Secretary

The company must have at least one company secretary who can be an Australian resident.

Share Capital Requirement

There is no minimum share capital requirement for business registration in Australia.

Registered Office

The company must have a registered office in Australia.

Business Name

The company should also obtain a unique business name that is not already registered and does not closely resemble an existing company name.

Enrolled with ASIC

Company registration in Australia for foreigners must enrolled with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

Documents Required for Company Formation in Australia

The list of documents required for company formation in Australia:

Passport (for foreign shareholders and directors)

Registered office address

Shareholders details

Detailed Business Plan

Signed Consent Form from all Directors and Shareholders

ACN (Australian Company Number)

Constitution or replaceable rules

Any other relevant documentation as per the state or territory regulations.

Taxation Structure for Company Registration in Australia

The taxation structure for company registration in Australia is as follows:

  • A corporate tax of 30% has to be paid by the company registered in Australia. On the other hand, small and medium business organizations are subjected to a lower tax rate of 25%.
  • Companies with a GST turnover of more than $75,000 are required to register for GST in Australia and are charged GST on their sales.
  • A payroll tax needs to be paid by a company registered in Australia based upon a certain threshold.
  • The FBT (Fringe Benefits Tax) is levied at 47%.
  • Companies may be required to pay CGT (Capital Gains Tax) on capital gains.

Businesses for Company Registration in Australia for Foreigners

The list of most profitable businesses and industries for company registration in Australia for foreigners-

List of Industries for Online Business Registration in Australia

  • Superannuation funds in Australia
  • Finance in Australia
  • National and Regional Commercial Banks in Australia
  • Professional Services in Australia
  • Consumer Goods Retailing in Australia
  • Residential Property Operators in Australia
  • Health Services in Australia
  • Oil and Gas Extraction in Australia
  • Retail Property Operators in Australia
  • General Insurance in Australia

List of Businesses for Company Formation in Australia

  • Mining and resources
  • Real Estate
  • Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
  • Technology and IT Services
  • Agriculture
  • Education and Training
  • Finance and Banking
  • Tourism and Hospitality

Our Offerings for Your Company Formation in Australia

Have a look at the key offerings of Enterslice for your company formation in Australia-

  • Name Reservation with ASIC
  • Preparation of Company Documents
  • ABN Registration
  • GST Registration
  • DIN Application
  • Corporate Bank Account Opening Assistance
  • Nominee Director for 1 Year
  • Company Incorporation with ASIC
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Why Trust Enterslice for Company Registration in Australia?

Enterslice has proved its mettle as one of India’s leading business consulting firms for company registration in Australia. Given below are the reasons why we are the first choice for company formation in Australia-

  • 10+ Years of Proven Experience in Company Registration in Australia
  • Visit Govt Office on your Behalf and Do all the Formalities
  • Empowered 500+ Business Owners with Company Formation in Australia
  • Network of Local Lawyers, CAs, Consultants, and CS
  • Documentation Support for Online Business Registration in Australia
  • End-to-end Assistance in Online Business Registration in Australia
  • Help you Register Company Name Australia

FAQs for Company Registration in Australia for Foreigners

After company registration in Australia, businesses must adhere to post-registration compliance to ensure smooth operations. This includes holding a shareholders' meeting within 18 months of incorporation, filing annual tax returns, submitting financial reports to ASIC every 15 months, and maintaining accurate company records.

Australia’s business-friendly environment, strong economy, and government support make it an attractive destination for global entrepreneurs. Here are the five best cities for investment:

  • Sydney – A thriving financial hub with a strong property market.
  • Melbourne – A leading tech startup hub with a booming real estate sector.
  • Brisbane – Offers modern infrastructure and affordable investment opportunities.
  • Perth – Ideal for mining, energy, and resource-based businesses.
  • Adelaide – A strategic location for defence and renewable energy industries.

Entrepreneurs in Australia can choose from various company structures based on their needs. The main types include Australian LLC, Proprietary Company (Pty Ltd), Australian Public Company, Australian Branch Office, Partnership Firm, Australian Representative Office, Trust etc. Each structure offers unique benefits, depending on business goals and liability considerations.

Yes, foreign entrepreneurs are eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia in different ways. The Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (subclass 188) is one such method that facilitates business setup in Australia. After a specific time period, provisional visa holders can apply for permanent residency under the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa (subclass 888). Other means to apply for PR include skilled migration visas and family-sponsored options.

Australia is the land of infinite opportunities, allowing international businesses and investors a chance to grow their ventures in Australia's dynamic ecosystem. Some of the most profitable areas for online business registration in Australia include IT services, renewable energy, e-commerce, healthcare, real estate, education, and agriculture.

Yes, foreigners are qualified to own up to 100% of a business share after successful company formation in Australia. However, they are mandated to meet the legal and regulatory requirements, including appointing a minimum of one Australian resident director. Every business must follow the Australian compliance, law and regulatory requirements for seamless long-term observations.

Given below are the steps to register a new company in Australia-

  • Choose the Type of Company
  • Select the Name of the Company
  • Select a Registered Office Address
  • Appoint a Local Nominee Director
  • Apply for a Director’s Identification Number (DIN)
  • Apply for an Australian Company Number (ACN)
  • Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • Get an Incorporation Certificate from the ASIC

Company incorporation in Australia requires entrepreneurs to acquire specific licences and permits to continue their operations uninterrupted. Obtaining an Australian Business Number (ABN) and a Tax File Number (TFN) is a must. Besides, industry-specific permits for food safety, construction, or import-export licenses must also be obtained as per the business requirements.

Well, LLC stands for limited liability company, also known as private limited corporation (Pty limited). It is the most well-known type of business. Here the shareholder liability is limited to the amount of shares contributed in the company.

To qualify for an Australian business visa, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation to apply.

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

  • Access to a Stable and Growing Economy
  • Strategic Location for Asia-Pacific Trade
  • Ease of Doing Business
  • Government Support and Incentives
  • Access to Skilled Talent
  • Potential for High Returns on Investment

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