Administration

Appoint an ASIC Local Agent

When registering your foreign company in Australia with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), you must appoint at least one Local Agent who resides in Australia, as required by law.

01

Product Overview

The Local Agent is a person or entity who becomes your official point of contact with ASIC and takes responsibility for managing your company’s local compliance, handling official communications, meeting regulatory deadlines, and supporting your business with governance and legal obligations in Australia.

Given the responsibilities and potential liabilities involved, it is important to appoint a Local Agent who understands the system and can act with professionalism and care. At ABN Australia, we act as Local Agent for a wide range of international companies, bringing decades of experience and a deep understanding of Australia’s corporate environment. More than fulfilling an obligation, we become your local eyes and ears on the ground.

By choosing us as your Local Agent, you gain a trusted partner who knows how to navigate the Australian regulatory landscape, so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.

02

Our Responsibilities

When you appoint ABN Australia as your Local Agent, we take on a range of responsibilities to help ensure your registered foreign company remains compliant and well-supported in Australia.

These include:

  1. Monitoring ASIC filing deadlines for your company

  2. Preparing and lodging financial statements or annual returns at least once every calendar year

  3. Ensuring that no more than 15 months pass between financial statements

  4. Lodging financials within one month of your branch company’s annual general meeting (if held)

  5. Receiving and managing service of legal documents and notices

  6. Notifying ASIC of changes to the branch company’s details, structure, or appointments

03

Why Choose ABN Australia

Appointing the right Local Agent can make all the difference in how smoothly your registered foreign business operates in Australia.

ABN Australia’s Local Agent takes responsibility for your ongoing compliance and support your business like a true local partner.

Here is what sets us apart:

1. A Responsive, In-House Team You Can Rely On
Our compliance and accounting professionals are experienced, accessible, and genuinely invested in your success.

2. Proactive Compliance Management
We stay ahead of ASIC deadlines and requirements so you do not have to worry about missed filings or penalties.

3. End-to-end Support
From legal document handling to company updates, reporting, and ASIC lodgements, we take care of it all.

4. Confidential and Commercially Minded
We understand the needs of international businesses and provide discreet, commercially sound advice that aligns with your goals.

5. One Team, All Services
Need more than a Local Agent? Tap into our full range of integrated services, from tax and payroll to resident directorship and registered office support.

With decades of experience supporting global businesses entering the Australian market, we know how to simplify local requirements and make compliance feel effortless. Whether you are appointing a Local Agent for the first time or looking to switch, ABN Australia is here to make the transition smooth and stress-free.

Order Forms and Guides

Your Guide
to Starting a Business in Australia

Download our free guide Starting Your Business in Australia. Inside, you’ll find clear instructions, compliance essentials, and insider advice from our team designed to help you navigate market entry smoothly and make informed decisions with confidence.

Put Your Trust
in the Industry Professionals

Partner with experienced professionals who provide dependable local agent services, ensuring your Australian branch remains compliant and well-represented at all times.

Unrivalled Experience

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We have been official ASIC Registered Agents for almost 50 years, and have incorporated more than 200,000 companies during that time.

Legendary Customer Service

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We pride ourselves on great and informed customer service, with professional and prompt support available via chat, phone or email.

Easy to Work With

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We use the latest tech to streamline all our processes, and we offer a comprehensive range of related services ensuring we can be a 'one-stop-shop' for your business.

From the Knowledge Base

Still have more questions? We have the answer.

What is an ASIC local agent in Australia?

An ASIC local agent is an authorised representative based in Australia who receives official ASIC correspondence and ensures a foreign company meets its ongoing legal and reporting obligations.

Who needs to appoint an ASIC local agent?

All foreign companies registered with ASIC must appoint a local agent who is resident in Australia. This person or organisation is legally responsible for ensuring ASIC compliance on behalf of the company.

Can ABN Australia act as my ASIC local agent?

Yes. ABN Australia acts as ASIC-authorised local agent for foreign companies, managing compliance, filings, and communication with ASIC through our secure, monitored systems.

What are the responsibilities of a local agent?

A local agent must maintain company records, lodge ASIC forms, respond to notices, and ensure compliance with the Corporations Act. They are personally liable if the company fails to meet ASIC obligations.

What information is required to appoint ABN Australia as local agent?

You’ll need to provide your company registration documents, ASIC reference number, and a signed Form 418. We take care of the lodgement and confirmation with ASIC once appointed.

How do I choose the right local agent provider?

Choose a provider experienced with foreign company compliance and ASIC processes. ABN Australia offers a professional, risk-managed service with strict governance controls, ensuring your company remains compliant and protected.

Get Started

Book a hassle-free discovery call with one of our team.