Some terms are restricted
Some words and phrases cannot be used without the approval of a government minister. Some examples include:
- 'building society'
- 'trust'
- 'university'
- 'chamber of commerce'
You can't use words that could mislead people about a company's activities. This includes associations with Australian government, the Royal Family, or any ex-servicemen's organisations. ASIC may also refuse a name if it's considered offensive or suggests illegal activity.
The following are examples of restricted terms. You must seek additional approval before you can use them in a company name:
- Bank, Banker, Banking, ADI, credit society, credit union, etc.
- Friendly Society
- GST
- Guarantee
- Incorporated
- Made in Australia
- Police, policing
- Royal
- RSL
- Sir Donald Bradman
- Starr Bowkett
- Stock Exchange
- Trust or trustee