Register an Australian Pty Ltd company for a total cost starting from approximately $1,511 (including $611 ASIC government fee + $900 professional fee). Foreign companies also need a resident director (from $6,000/yr + GST). The entire process can be completed remotely within 5–7 business days.
Company Formation Services
Looking to register a company in Australia as a foreign business? Aus Business Register provides comprehensive company formation services designed specifically for international entrepreneurs and corporations seeking to establish a presence in Australia. With over 40 years of experience as registered ASIC agents, we handle every aspect of your Australian company registration—from initial structure advice and ASIC lodgement to ABN/TFN registration and ongoing compliance support. Whether you’re establishing a subsidiary, branch office, or proprietary limited company, our expert team ensures your business is set up correctly, compliantly, and ready to operate in one of the world’s most stable economies.
How to Register a Company in Australia as a Foreign Business
Foreign businesses seeking to operate in Australia have several pathways to establish a legal presence. Understanding your options is crucial for making the right decision based on your business objectives, tax considerations, and operational requirements. Under the Corporations Act 2001, foreign entities must register with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) before conducting business activities in Australia.
Your Three Main Options
1. Australian Subsidiary Company
The most popular choice for foreign businesses is establishing a proprietary limited (Pty Ltd) company. This creates a separate legal entity from the parent company, providing liability protection and a distinct Australian identity. The subsidiary can enter contracts, hold assets, and operate independently while being wholly or partially owned by the foreign parent company.
2. Branch Office (Registered Foreign Company)
A branch office allows your overseas company to operate directly in Australia without creating a new entity. You’ll register as a “Registered Foreign Company” with ASIC, operating under your existing company name with “ARBN” (Australian Registered Body Number) designation. The parent company retains full liability for the branch’s activities.
3. Representative Office
For businesses wanting to explore the Australian market without conducting commercial transactions, a representative office provides a presence for market research, liaison activities, and relationship building. This option has limited scope but minimal regulatory requirements.
Types of Australian Business Structures
Choosing the right business structure is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when entering the Australian market. Each structure has distinct legal, tax, and operational implications.
Proprietary Limited Company (Pty Ltd)
The proprietary limited company is the most common structure for foreign businesses establishing an Australian subsidiary. It offers the benefits of limited liability while maintaining operational flexibility.
Key Features:
- Limited to 50 non-employee shareholders
- Cannot raise funds from the public
- Minimum of one director (must have at least one director ordinarily resident in Australia)
- Separate legal entity from shareholders
- Can be wholly owned by a foreign parent company
Advantages:
- Limited liability protection for shareholders
- Clear separation from parent company for liability purposes
- Ability to access Australian tax incentives and treaties
- Simplified compliance compared to public companies
- Professional business image in the Australian market
Considerations:
- Requires at least one Australian resident director
- Annual compliance obligations with ASIC
- Financial reporting requirements vary based on company size
Public Company (Ltd)
Public companies have no restrictions on shareholder numbers and can raise capital from the public. This structure is typically chosen by larger enterprises planning significant market presence or eventual ASX listing.
Requirements:
- Minimum three directors (at least two must be Australian residents)
- Must have a company secretary who is an Australian resident
- Annual audited financial statements
- Annual General Meeting requirements
Advantages:
- Ability to raise capital publicly
- Enhanced credibility with larger stakeholders
- Pathway to ASX listing
Considerations:
- Higher compliance and reporting obligations
- Greater administrative costs
- Mandatory auditing requirements
Branch Office (Registered Foreign Company)
Registering as a foreign company allows your overseas entity to operate in Australia without creating a separate company.
Requirements:
- Must register within one month of starting business in Australia
- Appoint a local agent resident in Australia
- Maintain a registered office in Australia
- Lodge annual financial statements
Advantages:
- Simpler structure—no new entity creation
- Direct control by parent company
- Profits flow directly to parent company
Considerations:
- Parent company fully liable for branch activities
- May be perceived as less committed to Australian market
- Complex tax implications—consult a tax advisor
- Annual lodgement of overseas company financial statements
Requirements for Foreign Company Registration
Understanding the regulatory requirements is essential for a smooth company registration process. ASIC has specific requirements for foreign businesses establishing Australian companies.
Director Requirements
Under the Corporations Act 2001, every proprietary limited company must have at least one director who ordinarily resides in Australia. ASIC guidance states the director must ordinarily reside in Australia. Seek legal advice for borderline residency situations. Directors must be at least 18 years old and not be disqualified from managing corporations.
If you don’t have a suitable Australian resident, Aus Business Register provides professional resident director services to meet this requirement while you establish your operations.
Director Identification Number (Director ID)
Since November 2022, all directors of Australian companies must obtain a Director Identification Number (Director ID). This is a unique 15-digit identifier that stays with the director for life. Foreign directors must apply through the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS), which may require identity verification through alternative means if they don’t have Australian identity documents.
Registered Office Address
Every Australian company must maintain a registered office address within Australia during business hours. This address appears on public records and is where official communications from ASIC, the ATO, and legal documents are received. Our registered office address services provide a professional Australian address for your company.
Company Secretary Requirements
While proprietary limited companies are not required to appoint a company secretary, many foreign businesses choose to do so for proper governance. If appointed, the company secretary must be at least 18 years old. For public companies, a company secretary is mandatory and must ordinarily reside in Australia.
Our Company Formation Services
Aus Business Register provides a comprehensive company formation package designed specifically for foreign businesses. Our service removes the complexity from Australian company registration, ensuring full compliance with ASIC requirements.
Our Complete Formation Package Includes:
- Company Name Availability Search — We verify your proposed company name is available and meets ASIC naming requirements
- Structure Advisory — Expert guidance on the optimal business structure for your objectives
- ASIC Company Registration — Full preparation and lodgement of all incorporation documents
- Constitution Preparation — Standard or customised company constitution based on your requirements
- ACN Acquisition — Obtain your Australian Company Number upon registration
- ABN and TFN Registration — Complete ABN and GST registration with the Australian Taxation Office
- Director ID Guidance — Assistance with Director Identification Number applications
- Share Certificate Preparation — Issue of share certificates to founding shareholders
- Corporate Registers — Setup of statutory company registers and minute book
- ASIC Certificate of Registration — Official certificate confirming your company’s registration
- Post-Registration Compliance Calendar — Clear schedule of your ongoing obligations
Optional Additional Services:
- Resident Director Services
- Registered Office Address
- Company Secretary Services
- Business Bank Account Introduction
- Annual ASIC Compliance Management
Step-by-Step Company Registration Process
Our streamlined process makes registering your Australian company straightforward. Here’s what to expect:
- Step 1: Initial Consultation and Structure Advice — We discuss your business objectives, preferred company structure, and specific requirements. This consultation ensures we recommend the optimal approach for your situation.
- Step 2: Company Name Search — We conduct a comprehensive name availability search through ASIC’s database to ensure your preferred company name is available and compliant with naming rules.
- Step 3: Document Preparation — We prepare all required formation documents including the application for registration, consent forms from directors and shareholders, and your company constitution.
- Step 4: Director ID Verification — All directors must have a Director ID before appointment. We guide foreign directors through the application process with the Australian Business Registry Services.
- Step 5: ASIC Lodgement — We lodge your company registration application directly with ASIC through our registered agent portal, ensuring accuracy and compliance with all requirements.
- Step 6: ACN Issued — Upon successful registration, ASIC issues your Australian Company Number (ACN)—your company’s unique nine-digit identifier. This typically occurs within 1-3 business days.
- Step 7: ABN and TFN Registration — We immediately apply for your Australian Business Number (ABN) and Tax File Number (TFN) with the Australian Taxation Office, along with GST registration if required.
- Step 8: Deliver Company Documents — We provide your complete company documentation package including Certificate of Registration, constitution, share certificates, and statutory registers.
Timeline: Standard Pty Ltd company registration is typically completed within 1-3 business days once all required information and Director IDs are in place. Complex structures or additional services may require longer timeframes.
Costs of Registering a Company in Australia
Understanding the full cost of company registration helps you budget appropriately. Costs include government fees and professional service fees.
ASIC Government Fees (2024-2025)
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Company Registration Fee (Pty Ltd) | $611 |
| Company Registration Fee (Public Company) | $1,528 |
| Registered Foreign Company Registration | $611 |
| Company Name Reservation (optional) | $55 |
Note: ASIC fees are subject to change. Current fees can be verified on the ASIC website.
Our Service Fees
Our comprehensive company formation packages are competitively priced to provide exceptional value. Contact us for a detailed quote based on your specific requirements. Package pricing depends on:
- Company structure type
- Standard or customised constitution requirements
- Additional services required (resident director, registered office, etc.)
- Urgency of registration
Ongoing Annual Costs
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| ASIC Annual Review Fee (Pty Ltd) | $329 |
| ASIC Annual Review Fee (Public Company) | $1,528 |
| Late Fees (if annual review not completed on time) | Up to $414 |
Post-Registration Compliance Requirements
Once your Australian company is registered, you’ll have ongoing compliance obligations under the Corporations Act 2001 and Australian tax law. Understanding these requirements from the outset ensures your company remains in good standing.
ASIC Compliance Obligations
- Annual Review: Each year, ASIC sends an annual statement to your company. You must review the information, pay the annual review fee, and notify ASIC of any changes within a specified timeframe.
- Change Notifications: You must notify ASIC within 28 days of changes to company details including directors, shareholders, registered office address, or principal place of business.
- Financial Reporting: Large proprietary companies (meeting two of three thresholds: $50M revenue, $25M assets, 100 employees) must prepare and lodge audited financial reports.
- Record Keeping: Companies must maintain accurate registers of members, directors, and company secretaries.
Australian Taxation Office Obligations
- Business Activity Statements (BAS): If registered for GST, you must lodge BAS monthly or quarterly reporting GST collected and paid, PAYG withholding, and PAYG instalments.
- Company Tax Return: Annual company income tax return lodgement is mandatory.
- PAYG Withholding: If you have employees, you must withhold tax from their wages and remit to the ATO.
- Superannuation: Employers must pay superannuation guarantee contributions for eligible employees.
Other Regulatory Considerations
- Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB): Certain investments by foreign persons may require FIRB approval before proceeding.
- Industry Licensing: Some industries require specific licenses or registrations (financial services, real estate, etc.).
- State and Territory Requirements: Depending on your business activities, you may need state-based registrations or licenses.
Why Foreign Businesses Choose Aus Business Register
For over 40 years, Aus Business Register has been the trusted partner for international businesses entering the Australian market. Our expertise, comprehensive services, and commitment to client success set us apart.
40+ Years of Expertise
Our team has guided thousands of foreign businesses through Australian company registration. We understand the unique challenges international clients face and provide tailored solutions to overcome them.
Registered ASIC Agents
As registered ASIC agents, we have direct lodgement capabilities that ensure faster processing and reduced errors. Our professional relationship with ASIC means we stay current with regulatory changes and requirements.
One-Stop-Shop Services
From initial company formation through ongoing compliance management, we provide everything you need to operate successfully in Australia. Our integrated services include:
- Company formation and registration
- Resident director services
- Registered office address
- ABN and GST registration
- Annual compliance management
- Corporate secretarial services
Dedicated Client Support
You’ll have a dedicated account manager who understands your business and is available to answer questions, provide guidance, and ensure your compliance needs are met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner register a company in Australia?
Yes, foreigners can register and own companies in Australia. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of Australian proprietary limited companies. However, you must have at least one director who ordinarily resides in Australia. If you don’t have an Australian resident available, you can use our resident director services. Some investments may require Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval depending on the value and nature of the investment.
How long does it take to register a company in Australia?
A standard proprietary limited (Pty Ltd) company can be registered within 1-3 business days once all required information is provided and all directors have their Director IDs. The ABN is typically issued immediately upon company registration. More complex structures or additional requirements may extend this timeframe. Delays can occur if Director ID applications are still being processed or if additional ASIC verification is required.
Do I need to be in Australia to register a company?
No, you do not need to be physically present in Australia to register a company. The entire registration process can be completed remotely. However, your company must have at least one director who ordinarily resides in Australia (must ordinarily reside in Australia). Foreign directors will need to apply for their Director ID through the Australian Business Registry Services using alternative identity verification methods.
What is the minimum capital requirement to register a company in Australia?
Australia has no minimum capital requirement for company registration. You can register a proprietary limited company with shares of any nominal value, even $1 per share. This makes Australia an attractive jurisdiction for foreign businesses compared to countries with substantial paid-up capital requirements. However, you should ensure your company has adequate working capital for its intended operations.
Do I need a resident director for my Australian company?
Yes, every Australian proprietary limited company must have at least one director who ordinarily resides in Australia. “Ordinarily resident” means the director must have a settled, habitual residence in Australia. ASIC does not define a specific number of days. If you don’t have a suitable individual available, Aus Business Register offers professional resident director services to satisfy this requirement.
What is an ACN vs ABN?
An ACN (Australian Company Number) is a unique nine-digit number issued by ASIC when your company is registered. It identifies your company on the ASIC register and must appear on all public documents. An ABN (Australian Business Number) is an 11-digit number issued by the Australian Taxation Office for tax and business purposes. All companies need an ACN; most also apply for an ABN to interact with the tax system, register for GST, and conduct business transactions.
Can I use my overseas company name in Australia?
You may be able to use your overseas company name, subject to ASIC’s naming requirements. The name must not be identical or too similar to an existing registered company name in Australia. It cannot include restricted words (like “bank” or “trust”) without appropriate licensing. We conduct a comprehensive name availability search as part of our service. If your exact name is unavailable, we can suggest suitable alternatives that maintain your brand identity.
What ongoing obligations will I have after registering my company?
After registration, your company will have several ongoing obligations. These include: paying the annual ASIC review fee and confirming company details; notifying ASIC of any changes to company particulars within 28 days; maintaining accurate company registers; lodging annual company tax returns with the ATO; lodging Business Activity Statements (BAS) if registered for GST; meeting PAYG withholding and superannuation obligations if you have employees; and for large proprietary companies, preparing and lodging audited financial reports.
Ready to Register Your Australian Company?
Let our experienced team guide you through the company formation process. With 40+ years of expertise and comprehensive services, we make establishing your Australian presence straightforward and stress-free.
Contact Aus Business Register today for a free consultation and quote.
Phone: +61 2 8599 9890 | Email: [email protected]
Related Services
Foreign companies often combine this service with:
- Resident Director Services – Professional nominee directors to meet ASIC residency requirements
- ABN & GST Registration – Obtain your Australian Business Number and register for GST
- Registered Office Address – ASIC-compliant registered office in major Australian cities
- Banking Support Services – Assistance opening Australian business bank accounts
Australia Company Formation Process
As one of Australia's leading company formation companies, we streamline the entire company formation process for foreign businesses.
Our Company Formation Services
Complete company formation including ASIC registration, ACN allocation, constitution preparation, registered office setup, and ongoing compliance support. We handle everything so you can focus on your business.
Why Choose Our Company Formation Service?
- Fast 1-2 day company registration
- Fixed transparent pricing
- Full compliance package included
- Ongoing support and annual return lodgement
ABN Registration for Australian Companies with Foreign Shareholders
One of the most common questions we receive is whether an Australian Pty Ltd company can get an ABN when its shareholders are foreign nationals or overseas companies. The short answer is yes - a locally registered Australian company is fully entitled to an ABN regardless of who owns it.
However, the ABN application process is more involved when your company has non-resident associates (directors or shareholders), because the ATO requires additional proof of identity documentation that resident associates do not need to provide.
What the ATO Requires for Non-Resident Associates
When applying for an ABN for an Australian private company, the ATO requires details for the following associates:
- Directors - full name, date of birth, position, and either their TFN or residential address
- Public officer - the company's tax agent or nominated officer
- Top 20 shareholders for each class of share (if applicable)
For resident associates, the details provided must match existing ATO records. If they don't match, the application will be refused.
For non-resident associates without Australian TFNs, the ATO requires certified proof of identity documents instead. If the information provided is incomplete or inaccurate, the application may be refused or delayed.
Documents Required from Foreign Shareholders and Directors
Non-resident associates (whether they are individual shareholders or corporate shareholders) typically need to provide:
- Certified copy of passport (photo page) - certified by a Notary Public or Australian diplomatic mission
- Proof of residential address - utility bill or bank statement dated within 3 months
- Full name, date of birth, and position held in the company
If a foreign company is a shareholder, you will also need:
- Certified copy of the certificate of incorporation (or equivalent registration document) from the company's country of origin
- Full details of the foreign company's directors
- The foreign company's registered address and registration number
Common Scenarios We Handle
| Scenario | What's Needed |
|---|---|
| Foreign individual setting up a Pty Ltd | Passport, proof of address, Director ID, resident director appointment |
| Foreign company establishing a subsidiary | Parent company's certificate of incorporation, director details, shareholder structure |
| Multiple foreign shareholders in a new Pty Ltd | Identity documents for each shareholder, plus top 20 shareholder details for the ABN application |
| Mixed resident/non-resident shareholders | TFN for resident associates, certified identity documents for non-resident associates |
Why the ABN Application Gets Delayed
The most common reason ABN applications are refused or delayed for companies with foreign shareholders is incomplete or inaccurate identity documentation. The ATO cross-references all associate details, and any mismatch - even a minor spelling difference between the passport and the application - can trigger a refusal.
We handle the entire ABN application process on your behalf, ensuring all associate details and identity documents are correctly prepared before lodgement. This eliminates the back-and-forth with the ATO that commonly delays applications by weeks.
Without an ABN, 47% withholding tax applies to payments made to your company under the PAYG withholding rules. Getting your ABN right the first time is essential.
Need help? Request a quote or call us on +61 2 8599 9890 to discuss your company registration and ABN requirements.
Pricing
From $900 (+ ASIC fees)Register a new Australian Pty Ltd company for your foreign business, including all ASIC lodgement and documentation.
What's included:
- ✓ASIC company registration
- ✓Constitution preparation
- ✓Director & shareholder appointments
- ✓ACN issued within 24 hours
All prices in AUD. Foreign company services are GST-free. Government fees additional where applicable.