Business Structures & Setup
Business Name Registration
A business name lets you trade under a name other than your own legal name or company name. PHC & Associates handles ASIC business name registration, renewal reminders, and — importantly — advises you on what a business name registration does and doesn't protect, so you make informed decisions from the start.
1000+
Registrations Completed
CPA
Certified
ASIC
Registered Agent
What's Included
Everything Covered in This Service
ASIC business name registration — 1-year or 3-year term
Business name availability search before registration
Registration under the correct ABN or ACN
Multiple business name registrations under one entity
Renewal reminder management — no missed renewals
Business name transfer or cancellation when required
Advice on what registration does and doesn't protect
Domain name and trademark guidance (referral to IP specialists)
Key Concepts
What You Need to Know
Understanding the essentials helps you make better decisions and ask the right questions.
Trading Name vs Company Name
A business name is the name under which a sole trader, partnership, or trust trades. A company name is the registered name of the company itself (e.g. Smith Pty Ltd). A company can also register a separate business name to trade under a different brand.
What a Business Name Doesn't Protect
ASIC business name registration does not give you exclusive rights to use that name. Another business could register a similar company name or trademark. A registered trademark provides much stronger protection — we refer clients to IP specialists where appropriate.
Renewal Obligations
Business names are registered for 1 or 3 years. ASIC sends renewal reminders, but if a renewal is missed, the name is cancelled and can be registered by another business. We manage renewal reminders for all our clients.
Multiple Names Under One ABN
A single ABN can hold multiple registered business names. This is common for businesses operating multiple brands — each name can be registered separately and managed under the same entity.
Why It Matters
Why This Matters for Your Business
The decisions you make at setup have long-lasting consequences — financially, legally, and operationally.
You Must Have a Business Name to Trade Legally
If you trade under any name other than your own legal name (for individuals) or registered company name, you must register that name with ASIC. Trading without a registered business name is an offence.
Missed Renewals Are Costly
If a business name lapses, it can be registered by a competitor or third party — and you lose the right to use it. Renewal management is a simple but important compliance task.
Name Availability Changes Daily
A name that is available today may not be available tomorrow. If you have a name in mind, registering it promptly is the only way to secure it.
Business Name is Not Brand Protection
Many business owners believe ASIC registration protects their brand. It doesn't — only a trademark does. If your business name is a significant brand asset, trademark registration should be considered.
Correct Entity Matters
A business name must be registered under the correct ABN. If registered under the wrong entity, trading under that name may create legal and tax complications.