AI meets expertise: your winning formula to launching in Australia

We recently hosted our virtual client event, where we discussed a range of topics, including the use of AI in today’s business operations. All of us agreed that AI is changing the way global businesses expand, undeniably helping companies all over the world move faster and smarter. For non-residents entering the Australian market, we believe that AI offers many advantages: it helps analyse data, monitor trends and streamline early decision-making. However, when it comes to the legal, financial and operational realities of actually setting up and running a business in Australia, AI still needs the guidance of experienced professionals like us.

By Ro Elvinia

Here at ABN Australia, we do not see AI as a competitor. We see it as a tool that enhances both how our clients operate and how we serve them. We blend AI’s capabilities with our human expertise to deliver real-world, tailored solutions for non-residents doing business in Australia.

Here is how AI plays a role, and where qualified, local professionals like us remain essential.

Choosing the right business structure in Australia
Selecting the most suitable business structure is one of the first and most important steps in your expansion journey. AI tools can give you a broad overview of the available options (e.g. proprietary limited companies, branches) and compare their features, tax implications and reporting requirements.

However, business structures are not just technical choices. They shape how you operate, how you are taxed, how you are funded and even your legal responsibilities in Australia. AI cannot factor in your commercial goals, growth plans, risk appetite, or shareholder needs the way a professional adviser can.

At ABN Australia, we work closely with you to understand your unique situation and recommend the structure that sets you up for long-term success. We also handle every detail of the setup process: registering your company or branch, obtaining your ABN and GST, appointing the resident director and ensuring you comply with all local regulations from day one.

Market intelligence and strategic entry planning
AI can be extremely valuable when it comes to understanding the Australian market. It can analyse economic trends, consumer preferences and competitor activity to help you shape your go-to-market strategy. For example, AI-powered tools can help you choose the best time to launch, identify local demand, or localise your product offering to match customer expectations.

However, interpreting these insights and applying them in a meaningful way to your specific business case requires local expertise. Our team at ABN Australia helps bridge that gap. We guide you through how to enter the Australian market with confidence, what licenses or registrations you may need and how to align your entry strategy with local business culture and legal obligations.

Tax, accounting and corporate compliance
This is one area where AI can assist but cannot take responsibility. Yes, AI-powered platforms can automate some compliance tasks. For example, tracking filing deadlines or flagging inconsistencies. However, the reality is, Australia’s tax and corporate laws are complex and constantly evolving. Errors can result in penalties, reputational damage, or even restrictions on trading.

AI cannot register your business with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or ensure you are meeting statutory reporting requirements. It cannot interpret new tax rulings or advise you on how to structure your accounts for international operations.

ABN Australia, however, provides a full range of tax and accounting services designed specifically for non-resident companies like yours. This includes:

In addition, we serve as your ASIC registered agent and provide a registered office address, both legally required for many business structures.

Corporate governance and advisory
We all can agree that AI cannot sit on your board, attend meetings, or take legal responsibility for your governance requirements. Once your business is up and running in Australia, you will need support to ensure it stays compliant and well-managed. That might involve handling ASIC correspondence, overseeing local reporting obligations, or even navigating ownership changes or fundraising rounds.

ABN Australia act as resident directors for many of our international clients. These are experienced, in-house professionals who understand Australian law and act with integrity on your behalf. We also provide non-executive directors, nominee shareholders and ongoing corporate governance advice tailored to your growth stage and industry.

This level of accountability, decision-making and fiduciary duty cannot be replaced by automation.

Human resources and local hiring
AI has certainly improved the way businesses source and manage talent. It can help you filter CVs, match job descriptions to candidate profiles and even assist with contract generation.

However, hiring in Australia is about more than just matching skills to roles. You must comply with local employment laws, wage rules, superannuation obligations and workplace policies. AI does not give legal advice or take responsibility if something goes wrong.

ABN Australia, however, helps you build compliant and high-performing teams. We provide:

  • Employer of Record services, so you can hire locally without establishing an entity
  • Payroll and HR compliance solutions to help you avoid costly mistakes
  • Workforce onboarding and advisory to help you scale with confidence

Our people understand the legal and cultural nuances of the Australian employment landscape. It is something no AI tool can truly master.

Bringing it all together
Using AI offers enormous benefits. It helps you gather insights, automate tasks and operate more efficiently. However, it does not replace the need for qualified professionals who understand the complexities, risks and responsibilities of doing business in a new country.

When you work with us here at ABN Australia, you are not just getting paperwork filed. You are gaining a trusted local partner who understands your industry, speaks your language and can act with authority on your behalf. We use technology to work smarter, but it is our people, judgment and accountability that give you peace of mind.

So, if you are expanding into Australia, let AI be your assistant, but let ABN Australia be your advisor and strategic partner.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you simplify the complexities and get your Australian operations up and running, properly, securely and with confidence.

Published: 04th June 2025 | Last updated: 04th June 2025