If you’re ready to start a business, the first step many entrepreneurs think of is to buy a business name in Australia. But here’s the thing—business names in Australia aren’t bought like domain names or assets. Instead, they’re registered through a government process with ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission).

In this article, we’ll explain how to register your business name properly, what legal requirements apply, and how Taxopia can make the whole process quick, easy, and affordable.

Can You Buy a Business Name in Australia?

Technically, you don’t buy a business name—you register it. Business names are not property that can be bought and sold in the traditional sense. Instead, registering a name with ASIC gives you the right to trade under that name, as long as it’s not already taken or too similar to another registered name or trademark.

If you’re acquiring an existing business, the registered owner can transfer the business name to you using ASIC’s transfer process. This still involves registration steps.

How to Register (or “Buy”) a Business Name in Australia

Here’s how to properly secure a business name in Australia:

  1. Choose a unique and appropriate name (avoid misleading or restricted terms).
  2. Check that the name is available using the ASIC register.
  3. Apply for an ABN (Australian Business Number) if you don’t already have one.
  4. Register the business name through an authorised provider like Taxopia.

Start your business name registration now: Business Name Registration Services

Who Needs to Register a Business Name?

You must register a business name if you’re trading under a name that is not your own legal name or the name of your company. For example:

  • Sole traders using a name other than their personal name
  • Partnerships with a trading name
  • Companies operating under a different brand than their legal name

If you’re setting up a new company and want to trade under a name other than the company’s legal name, you’ll need both a company registration and a business name registration.

Register a Company with Taxopia

Cost to Register a Business Name in Australia

The cost to register a business name in Australia is set by ASIC. As of 2025, the fees are:

  • $42 for 1 year
  • $98 for 3 years

At Taxopia, we offer a fast, online registration service that ensures all compliance requirements are met—and we keep it affordable for Australian small businesses and startups.

Business Name vs Company Name

A common confusion for new business owners is the difference between a business name and a company name:

  • Business Name: The trading name you use for branding and customer recognition.
  • Company Name: The legal entity registered with ASIC (e.g. Koala Tech Pty Ltd).

You can have a company and still operate under one or more registered business names for different services or divisions.

Related: Company Name vs Business Name – What’s the Difference?

How to Protect Your Business Name

Registering a business name does not give you exclusive legal ownership or trademark rights. If you want to stop others from using a similar name, consider registering a trademark with IP Australia.

Trademarking is especially important if your business name is a critical part of your brand identity or product marketing.

Final Thoughts: Buy and Register with Confidence

While you can’t technically “buy” a business name in Australia, you can secure one quickly and legally by registering it through the correct process. With Taxopia, you can register your business name online in minutes—with full compliance and expert support.

Don’t leave your brand unprotected. Get started with Taxopia today: