How to register a business in Queensland
To register a business in Queensland, you need an Australian Business Number (ABN) from the ATO, a business name registered nationally with ASIC, and any state-specific licences relevant to your activity. Business name registration is governed by the Business Names Registration Act 2011 (Cth) and is administered by ASIC.
The framework
Business name registration is governed by the Business Names Registration Act 2011 (Cth). ABNs arise under the A New Tax System (Australian Business Number) Act 1999 (Cth). Queensland state-specific tax and licensing arises under various Queensland Acts.
The process
Choose your business structure
Decide between sole trader, partnership, company, or trust. Each structure has different tax, liability, and regulatory implications. Companies are registered with ASIC under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).
Apply for an ABN
Apply for an Australian Business Number through the Australian Business Register (abr.gov.au). An ABN is required for invoicing, GST, and most government interactions.
Search for a business name
Search the ASIC business name register and IP Australia trade marks search to confirm the name is available. Avoid identical or confusingly similar names.
Register the business name with ASIC
Register the business name through ASIC Connect. Registration is for 1 or 3 years and required under the Business Names Registration Act 2011 (Cth) where you trade under a name other than your own.
Register for GST if required
Register for GST if your projected annual turnover is $75,000 or more under the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 (Cth).
Register for PAYG and super
If you employ staff, register for Pay As You Go withholding and ensure you meet superannuation guarantee obligations under the Superannuation Guarantee (Administration) Act 1992 (Cth).
Register for Queensland payroll tax
Once your Australian wages exceed the Queensland payroll tax threshold, register with the Queensland Office of State Revenue under the Payroll Tax Act 1971 (Qld).
Check Queensland and local licences
Use Business Queensland and the Australian Business Licence and Information Service (ABLIS) to identify required Queensland state and local council licences (food, building, transport, liquor, etc.).
Register for WorkCover Queensland
If you employ workers, take out WorkCover Queensland accident insurance under the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld). Cover is mandatory before employment commences.
Renew and maintain registrations
Maintain financial and tax records, renew the business name registration before expiry, and update ASIC of any changes to addresses or directors. Failing to renew leaves the name available to others.
Forms and templates
Common mistakes
- Trading without a registered business name
- Choosing a name that conflicts with a trade mark
- Missing GST registration when above threshold
- Not taking out WorkCover Queensland
- Forgetting to renew the business name
Get this process right with Quillio
Quillio can help structure your registrations, prepare a Queensland licensing checklist, and draft basic governance documents. See /practice-areas/commercial-law or start a free trial.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Speak with an accountant and a Queensland commercial lawyer about structure and compliance.
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