If you are starting a business and are unsure how to register for an Australian Business Number (ABN), you will find useful information on the Tax Office ABN essentials page.
Registering for an ABN is not compulsory, but you will need one to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST). Your ABN will also allow you to:
- facilitate a single Business Activity Statement
- confirm your business identity to others when ordering and invoicing
- avoid Pay As You Go withholding on payments you receive
- claim GST and fuel tax credits
- obtain an Australian domain name.
There are a number of ways you can register for your ABN:
For further information on what to do when you are starting a business, read our Starting a business guide. For more specific advice on registering for an ABN contact the Tax Office on 13 28 66.