Register Company in Australia

• The Director Identification Number (DIN) is a unique identifier assigned to directors in Australia, remaining consistent throughout their directorial tenure across various companies in Australia, serving as a personal identification number for each director. The eligibility criteria for acquiring DIN involves:
  • The candidate must be at least 18 years old.
  • The applicant should not be disqualified from being a director under any Australian law.
  • The applicant must provide valid identity proof.

• Tetra Consultants specializes in expediting the acquisition of Director Identification Numbers (DINs) in Australia, typically completing the process within 6-8 weeks. Our systematic approach begins with initiating the online application through the official Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) website or the designated DIN application platform.
• Applicants are required to fill in personal details such as full name, date of birth, and address on the application form to ensure accuracy and prevent complications. Vital identity documents like passports or driver’s licenses must be uploaded, ensuring they are valid and clearly legible. Before submission, a thorough review of all provided details is conducted to guarantee precision.
• It is crucial to maintain up-to-date DIN information, and Tetra Consultants advises clients to promptly update any changes in personal details. Regularly monitoring for notifications or updates from authorities is recommended to ensure compliance with regulations.

• You are required to submit your business with the Business Registration Service to receive an Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN), depending on your chosen business entity.

• You must then check for the availability of and reserve your preferred business name. This can either be done with the previous step or you must apply to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to do the same.

• You must review the application and submit all the required documents including the Article of Incorporation.
• In this step, you must also pay the government fees.
• Once registration is completed, Tetra Consultants will collect all the incorporation documents including the Certificate of Registration, Memorandum and Articles of Association, and more.

• Tetra Consultants will register your business for tax with the Australian Taxation Office and receive a Business Tax File Number which is needed to conduct business in Australia.
• Our team will also obtain a business license for your business, depending on your business activity and location.
• We will also obtain insurance for your business, if required.

• Tetra Consultants will leverage our extensive banking network to open a corporate bank account for your business.

• After registration of your business is completed, Tetra Consultants will continue to ensure your business’s compliance with the government policies.
• We will assist you in making timely payments of tax and filing for annual tax returns.
• Moreover, in case of any changes in the company’s structure, we will inform the relevant authorities on your behalf.

• Tetra Consultants facilitates seamless corporate bank account opening in Australia. We ensure streamlining the process for clients. Leveraging our expertise ensures a swift and efficient experience. Clients can initiate the procedure online before physically arriving in the country. This pre-emptive approach allows foreigners to open an account saving time and hassle
• Understanding that document requirements vary, Tetra Consultants emphasizes checking specific bank prerequisites. With Tetra Consultants, clients enjoy a swift corporate bank account opening. This occurs within 4 weeks of incorporation. Tetra Consultants ensures a seamless transition, streamlining the banking process. We make it efficient and hassle-free.

Steps for Ongoing Compliance Post-Registration 

Notify ASIC of company changes:  

• At Tetra Consultants, we appreciate that submitting ASIC reporting changes in your company details such as directors, shareholders, registered office, or share structure is critical to our clients. Our skilled team actively monitors your company’s status and makes sure we submit any changes within the times and as required under the Regulations, avoiding our clients potential ASIC penalties and keeping their companies compliant with the Corporations Act. 

Annual Company Statement and Review Fee Management: 

• We take responsibility to coordinate our clients annual company statement and annual review fee payment. Our experts will check details of your company and reported information in the statement to ensure there are no issues so we advise the necessary changes to the company statement, address differences or issues in a timely manner and ensure that annual company fees are paid on time so our clients never have to face the risk of deregistration or penalties due to late company fees. 

Corporate governance and meeting compliance:  

• Tetra Consultants offer anus pathway for suggestions, advice for organizing our clients Annual General Meetings (AGMs), shareholder meetings with respect to Australian corporate governance of company law. We help with preparing the documents needed, advising on meetings and procedures, and making sure your resolutions are validly passed, building on your corporate governance framework. 

Financial reporting and tax compliance:  

• Our team includes accounting and tax professionals who handle all your financial reporting obligations, including preparation and lodgment of income tax returns, Business Activity Statements (BAS), PAYG withholding, and other tax returns. We also ensure compliance with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) requirements, thereby reducing your risk of audits and penalties, while enhancing your taxation position.  

Compliance policy development and employee awareness:  

• Tetra Consultants recognizes the importance of sound compliance frameworks and designs and implements specific policies in areas such as anti-bribery, corporate governance and whistleblower protections. We also provide training courses to keep your employees educated and compliant, as your legal responsibilities change all the time. This helps create a compliance culture of integrity in your organization.  

Whistleblower protection and reporting process:  

• We can assist you in having secure and confidential whistleblower reporting mechanisms installed that comply with Australian Laws so that they are protected from retaliation actions. Our professionals will review the whistleblower mechanisms regularly and improve the reporting systems to have transparent processes. Our goal is to improve ethical business practices. 

Compliance auditing and risk management:  

• Our consultants complete comprehensive compliance audits and risk analysis, recognizing potential gaps in your business operations and regulatory compliance. We will also make pragmatic recommendations and address any corrective actions necessary to reduce risk and continuously comply with as little disruption as possible. 

Record-keeping and documentation:  

• Tetra Consultants ensures that your company maintains adequate records for all statutory filings, board resolutions, payments and receipts for all financial transactions, and correspondence with all regulators. With our robust record-keeping systems, our clients maintain documentation that is complete, comprehensive, accurate and readily available for audits or inspections. 

Regulatory updates and continuous advice:  

• For many businesses, keeping up with frequent changes to compliance obligations can be a challenge. Our team of dedicated consultants monitors legislative changes to advise you of relevant changes to your compliance obligations. We will provide you with advice, and update all policies and procedures to make sure you are always fully compliant. 

What are the documents requirement to register company in Australia?

• There are various documents required to register company in Australia. Your engagement in a particular business activity may influence the requirement. Tetra Consultants can provide you with a specific list of documents for business. Below-mentioned list is the generalized list of documents.
  • Application Form
  • Written consent from each shareholder about the number of shares they agree to take
  • Company constitution
  • Officeholders’ consent
  • Consent to act as Public Officer
  • Directors minutes
  • Application for shares
  • Share certificates
  • Shareholder and member registers
  • Certificate of Incorporation from ASIC
  • Australian Company Number (ACN)
  • Electronic Australian Registration Certificate
  • Certificate of Good Standing/ Certificate of Registration
  • Company search report
  • Notarized copy of identifications documents including Passport, Proof of address and proof of income of all the individual shareholders and directors.

Common Challenges When register company in Australia 

Choosing wrong company structure 

• Choosing the wrong company structure (sole trader, partnership, company, trust) can create tax implications, increased personal liability and difficulty in attracting investors. Each structure has different legal and financial outcomes through compliance and potential to grow. 

• Tetra Consultants can help you choose the best company structure for your business goals, including compliance with Australian laws so you can take advantage of tax and liability benefits from day one.  

Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements 

• All Companies in Australia need to comply with regulations and legislation such as ASIC Registration, an Australian Business Number (ABN), annual reporting and a registered office. Non-compliance can lead to penalties and fines or deregistration. 

• Tetra Consultants can understand and manage your compliance obligations on your behalf by providing ASIC registration, tax registrations with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), nominee director appointment, ongoing compliance, and monitoring to avoid penalties. 

Selecting appropriate directors and shareholders 

• The appointment of unreceptive or inappropriate directors and shareholders might result in operational conflicts, statutory liabilities, and poorly aligned capital raising. Directors have high legal obligations as a consequence of their role, and it is profoundly important to align shareholders with the company’s vision. Tetra Consultants supports with the identification of appropriate directors and shareholders, can provide nominee directors, and draft shareholder agreements to define director and shareholder roles and to help avoid disputes.  

Choosing and registering a unique business name 

• Each business name has to be unique and not registered with ASIC. Without checking thoroughly, the application process could be rejected or you could incur costs to rebrand. Tetra Consultants will conduct limited name availability checks and the name registration process to have you secure your choice of business name quickly and without complications. 

Completing accurate & complete documentation 

• Incorrect or incomplete details on registration forms – incorrect address or wrong directors – can delay your company registration process or cause rejection altogether. Tetra Consultants can thoroughly review and prepare all the relevant documents including Articles of Incorporation, ensuring accuracy and completeness prior to filing with the ASIC.   

Corporate bank account opening 

• Opening a corporate bank account in Australia can be complicated, as KYC verification will need to be completed and sometimes the banker will insist on physical presence during the opening of an account. Any delays during this process can stall business operations. Leveraging significant banking networks, Tetra Consultants can help you open a corporate bank account through remote operations, arranging video KYC calls if needed, allowing you to start operating as quickly as possible without needing to travel to Australia. 

Managing tax and licensing obligations after registration 

• After you have registered your business, you will be required to register and pay taxes (GST, TFN), obtain the appropriate licenses, and acquire insurance depending on your business activity and area. Tetra Consultants will take care of all tax and registrations with the ATO, apply for your business license, and support your application for insurance so that you can focus on managing your business to meet all operational requirements.  

Managing ongoing compliance and annual review 

• As a business in an Australia primary company, you must continually notify the basic information of your business details, including any changes to the company’s details with ASIC and annual reviews that must be completed (including Financial Statements). There are penalties for not adhering to these obligations, and you risk being deregistered. Tetra Consultants will provide ongoing compliance services to manage and file on time when payment is due and advise Authorities of any changes declared by the company which may affect both Compliance and taxation requirements, all requirements so you can maintain good standing for your business. 

Accounting and tax obligations

Accounting obligations

Financial ReportingCompanies need to prepare financial statements that present a true and fair view about the financial position and performance. These should include:

• Statement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet)
• Income Statement (Profit and Loss Statement)
• Statement of Cash Flows
• Statement of Changes in Equity
• Notes to the Financial Statements

Compliance with Accounting Standards

• The firms are required to adhere to Australian Accounting Standards, which, in turn, are International Financial Reporting Standards. Any financial report will thus have uniformity and clarity.

Annual Financial Statements

• Large proprietary companies and all publicly listed companies must prepare and lodge annual financial statements with ASIC. Small companies may have reduced reporting requirements.

Audit Requirements

• For proprietary companies and public companies, financial statements have to be audited by a registered company auditor. Small proprietary companies do not have to get their accounts audited unless certain thresholds are met or there is a request by shareholders.

Tax obligations

Goods and Services Tax (GST)

• Any business turning over more than AUD 75,000 per annum must be registered for GST and charge the GST to clients. Businesses report and pay the GST by lodging a Business Activity Statement.

Corporate Income Tax

• Companies must, pay corporate income tax on such profit at 30% for large ones and 25% for base rate entities, which represent small businesses with less than AUD 50 million in turnover.

Documents required by corporate entity are: 

• Share sale agreement,
• Due diligence reports, and
• Notification to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
• Latest filed directors’ report and accounts
• Details of the registered office address
• Principal place of business
• Company secretary details
• Appointed auditors details

Post-registration requirements to register company in Australia 

Display the company name  

• Companies must display their registered name during business operations or public engagement. This regulatory need ensures transparency and easy company identification. Adhering to this stipulation fulfills legal obligations. It maintains trust and clarity in business interactions. Companies must display their registered name for ongoing compliance in Australia.

Disclose the Australian Company Number (ACN) or Australian Business Name (ABN)

• Businesses must disclose their ACN or ABN on all official documents. This ensures visibility and regulatory compliance. This need mandates the inclusion of unique identification numbers on company paperwork. It reinforces transparency and facilitates proper record-keeping.

Maintain company records

• After registration in Australia, companies must uphold thorough record-keeping practices. Maintaining a comprehensive register of company members is essential. Keep copies of minutes from both general and directors’ meetings. The company must preserve relevant financial records. This ensures ongoing compliance with post-registration requirements.

Appoint key executives

• Companies must appoint at least one director and secretary. There is an option of the same person holding both roles. For private companies, at least one director and secretary must live in Australia. Public companies need at least two directors who live in Australia. Individuals hold key executive roles within the company, ensuring their effective management. These individuals must have a tangible connection to the Australian business landscape. This contributes to effective governance and regulatory compliance.

Obtain written consent 

• Companies using a rented registered office address must need to have written consent from the owner. This applies, for instance, when utilizing an accountant’s office for the registered address. Submission to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is unnecessary. However, it is crucial to maintain these written permissions in the company’s records. This ensures compliance with regulatory standards. It emphasizes transparency in the utilization of external addresses for official purposes. The requirement underscores the importance of obtaining explicit permission. It emphasizes retaining documented consent within the company’s records for audits.

Types of business license in Australia

Occupational license

• These licenses play a pivotal role in regulating various professions and businesses. It ensures adherence to specific standards and qualifications. Administered by state or federal governments, these licenses are imperative for legal practice. Examples of licensed professions span diverse sectors. It includes medicine, law, electrical work, plumbing, and hairstyling.
• There are two primary categories of occupational licenses:
• State and territory governments issue state-based licenses. These licenses are industry-specific and pertain to professions. Each state may have its own set of regulations and licensing requirements.
• The Australian government governs federal licenses. These licenses apply to industries with operations extending beyond state borders. Professions like aviation, maritime, and telecommunications fall under this category. This license requires federal approval for legal practice.
• These licenses serve as a mechanism. It ensures competency, professionalism, and adherence to regulations. This contributes to the integrity and safety of various sectors within the country.

Retail shop license

• The license is contingent upon factors, with requirements varying across states and territories. Administered locally, these licenses ensure regulatory compliance and safeguard business interests and employees. The Australian Business License and Information Service (ABLIS) tool is a valuable resource. It determines the requisite local, state, and federal licenses. Accessing ABLIS facilitates the precise identification of licenses and permits. This ensures adherence to regulations and enables lawful business operations.

Trade license 

• Trade licenses are crucial for regulatory compliance and public safety. State and territory levels administer them. The requisites depend on business type, activities, and location. To secure a trade license, businesses must identify their specific requirements. The Australian Business License and Information Service (ABLIS) facilitates this process.
• Businesses and individuals must undergo the necessary training. They need to have the required qualifications. They also need to submit applications to the relevant government agency or authority. The process may vary by jurisdiction. Maintaining compliance involves meeting ongoing requisites, such as professional development or refresher courses. Trade licenses signify a commitment to regulatory standards. They also enhance public safety and consumer confidence. Authorities, local councils, and federal agencies oversee the licensing processes. This ensures businesses adhere to regulations. It fosters a secure and trustworthy business environment.

Industry-specific licenses

• Businesses in specific industries must obtain industry-specific licenses. State and territory governments administer these licenses. Construction trades require licenses to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Real estate agents also need licenses for adherence to industry standards. Additionally, businesses in transport, logistics, and those impacting the environment need licenses. These licenses are necessary for legal operation and adherence to relevant regulations. To acquire these licenses, businesses must undergo training. They also need to obtain qualifications and apply through the relevant government authority. Maintaining compliance involves meeting ongoing requirements. These requirements include professional development and refresher courses. This affirms the commitment to legal and industry standards.

Why choose to register company in Australia?

Before you set up an Australian company, it is important to understand the business landscape of the jurisdiction. This is to ensure that your newly established entity will be able to safely and legally conduct business, while striving towards your long-term business goals. 

Political

• According to Transparency International, Australia Corruption Perceptions Index was ranked 12 out of 180 countries in 2019.
• Australia is a member of multiple global organizations such as the World Trade Organization, OECD, G-20 and Commonwealth of Nations.

Economical

• According to the Global Competitiveness Report published by the World Economic Forum, Australia was awarded a score of 78.75%. This means the country is the 16th most competitive nation in the world. 
• According to the IMF’s World Economic Outlook Database, Australia is the 14th largest economy in the world. It is also the 11th highest in terms of GDP per capita.
• The economy has been growing steadily for the past twenty years and boasts a low unemployment rate, low public debt and low inflation rate. 

Social

• Australia boasts a literacy rate of 99%. By setting up business in Australia, you will have access to a capable and highly-skilled labour force. 

Technological

• The local government is open to technological innovations such as FinTech and cryptocurrencies. For example, the government introduces the Australian Financial Services (AFS) licence for businesses to conduct financial services business. 
• In 2017, cryptocurrencies are declared as legal in Australia and will be treated as property. Consequently, cryptocurrency will be subject to capital gains tax. 

Legal

• The official language in Australia is English. As such, there is minimal business inconvenience that can occur due to miscommunication. Your corporate documents will be in English and all local banks offer internet banking in English. 
• According to the latest annual ratings given by the World Bank, Australia is globally ranked 14th in terms of ease of doing business, due to the straightforward business set up process. 
• Australia has implemented fair trading laws, competition laws and consumer laws to ensure fairness for both businesses and consumers. This is to ensure a level playing field and that no industry is subject to monopolies. 

Environmental

• According to the Environment Performance Index, Australia is globally ranked 21st. This shows that the local government has imposed adequate measures to ensure the country enjoys high economic growth, while maintaining minimal pollution.
• One of the major challenges faced by Australia is the issue of natural climate change. This results in growing concerns over water insecurity and widespread infectious diseases.

How will Tetra Consultants help you to Register company in Australia? 

• Tetra Consultants has unrivaled knowledge and wide-ranging services to assist you in registering a business in Australia stress-free and with full confidence. Unlike other agents, our experienced team has a comprehensive understanding of Australian corporate laws to make your company registration simple and efficient. We will take care of everything for you, from reserving your company’s name, to preparing and submitting legal documents, ensuring compliance with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.  

• Tetra Consultants can also provide nominee director and nominee shareholder services, which can be invaluable for foreign investors needing to satisfy local governance requirements. Their experts will help you organize opening a corporate bank account with a reputable Australian or international bank, without you needing to be in Australia, arranging KYC verification remotely where required. Tetra will also organize any taxation registrations with the Australian Taxation Office, including your Business Number and Tax File Number, and help you obtain any required licenses or insurance. With Tetra consultants’ proactive approach and local knowledge, you can be assured everything you ordered is done on time and as expected, while you focus on building your business in Australia without the hassle of administration and regulatory risk. 

Timeline to register company in Australia

• At Tetra Consultants, we expedite Australian company registrations, typically completing the process within 1 week. Additionally, our experts offer DIN acquisition services at the starting of the engagement which will take 8 weeks. Upon receiving necessary due diligence documents from directors and shareholders, we conduct a search for your preferred company name in the Australian Company Registry. Our streamlined online process eliminates the need for travel to Australia.
• Once incorporation documents are prepared, our legal team submits the application to the Australian Business Register (ABR). Following registration, you will receive legal documents including a certificate of formation, memorandum & articles of association, and a register of directors and shareholders within four weeks.
• Within 4 weeks of company formation, we facilitate you with Australian corporate bank account opening services with a reputable local or international bank, providing account opening forms and arranging necessary KYC verifications through online video conferencing.
• With Tetra Consultants, you can anticipate commencing operations and issuing invoices through your Australian company within 13 weeks.

Cost to setup Australia company 

• Setting up a company in Australia requires cost and fees that will vary from company type and services. There will be a number of fees or expenses related to the registration including government fees payable to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) for company incorporation including your company number and certificate, and any fees for registering a business name that must be renewed annually or every few years, and fees for reserving of or changes to your business name if required. In addition to government fees, professional service fees including legal, accounting, and consulting fees would apply to ensure that the appropriate documentation was filed, complied with the Corporations Act, and was done to facilitate a processes that minimizes time – this is important in both the registration and compliance phase.  

• There will be additional costs each year for annual review fees to keep your company registered to avoid additional penalties for late payments. Our experts at Tetra Consultants can explain to you all the fees and costs charged so that you have a full understanding of the financial requirements – and manage all the registration process in AU$ and you are free to focus on launching your business with what amounts to no unexpected costs. 

Find out more!

Contact us to find out more about how to set up a company in Australia. Our team of experts will revert within the next 24 hours.

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