When do you need an ABN and what comes next?

For international businesses eyeing Australia as their next growth market, understanding local compliance is key – and that starts with getting your Australian Business Number (ABN) right from day one. An ABN is an 11-digit identifier issued by the Australian Business Register (ABR), which is operated by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It is used to identify your business when dealing with the government and other businesses.

By Ro Elvinia

Our team at ABN Australia has helped thousands of companies around the world establish operations here. One common question we hear: ‘Do I really need an ABN – and what does it actually involve?’ The answer depends on how you intend to operate in Australia. Look no further. We break it down in practical terms, so you know exactly what is required and how we can simplify the process for you.

Do You Need an ABN?
You will generally need an ABN if your business will:

  • Provide products or services directly to customers (whether individuals or other businesses)
  • Actively source your own clients or customers
  • Set prices and invoice for your goods or services
  • Maintain a separate business bank account and insurance cover (such as public liability or WorkCover)
  • Declare and report all business income, even if your earnings are below the Australian tax-free threshold

What Comes with an ABN?
Once your Australian subsidiary or foreign business is registered, an ABN brings ongoing obligations beyond just holding the number itself. You may need to:

  • Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST)
  • Lodge regular Business Activity Statements (BAS)
  • Register for Pay As You Go (PAYG) withholding if employing staff – and meet superannuation requirements
  • Comply with other Australian federal, state or territory laws – such as payroll tax, workers’ compensation or special licences

Keeping Your ABN Details Current
Once you have your ABN, staying compliant means keeping your records up to date. You will need to notify authorities promptly if you:

  • Add or cancel tax registrations (such as PAYG for new employees)
  • Change your business details (address, authorised contacts, etc.)
  • Cease operating – requiring ABN cancellation and finalising your business obligations (lodging final tax returns, clearing tax debts and so on)

How ABN Australia Supports You
Our team simplifies every step of your business journey. We help you understand whether you are eligible for an ABN, guide you through the registration process and manage any required tax registrations along the way. Beyond that, we ensure you stay on top of ongoing obligations and compliance requirements.

Whether acting as your local agent, resident public officer or ASIC agent, we provide trusted local representation for your business in Australia. And as your operations evolve, we help keep your ABN and registrations up to date, so you can stay compliant and focused on growth.

We provide more than just basic assistance. You will benefit from hands-on guidance, commercially focused insights and a level of local expertise that only comes from years of helping international businesses successfully establish and grow in Australia.

Let us get your business off to the right start. Talk to ABN Australia today and let us handle the complexities, so you can focus on growing your business.

Published: 18th June 2025 | Last updated: 18th June 2025