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Guide · Australia · Published 2026-10-11

How to get a ABN in Australia

Getting a ABN in Australia: who needs one, how to register, what the number looks like, how to find or check one, and where it goes on your invoices.

  • A$ AUD
  • GST 10%
  • ABN
  • A4
  • English

What the ABN is

The ABN is the number Australian Taxation Office (ATO) assigns to a taxpayer in Australia. It follows you across every tax you deal with: GST, income tax and withholding. Businesses that pay you will ask for it before they release payment, because they report their suppliers to Australian Taxation Office (ATO) by this number.

Who needs one

Individuals get a TFN; anyone running a business needs an ABN, and GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold.

How to register, step by step

  1. Apply for a TFN through myGov or Australia Post if you do not have one.
  2. Apply for an ABN free on the Australian Business Register (abr.gov.au); most are issued instantly.
  3. Register for GST on the same application, or later through ATO online services, when turnover reaches $75,000.
  4. Companies register with ASIC first and get an ACN, then the ABN.

How to find or check a ABN

ABN Lookup (abr.business.gov.au) shows any ABN's status and GST registration free.

Documents, cost and how long it takes

An ABN is free and is applied for online through the Australian Business Register. The applicant needs the business structure, proof of identity and information about the business activities and associates. If the information is complete the result is immediate. Otherwise the applicant receives a refusal number with reasons within 14 days, or a reference number for an application under review, which can take up to 20 business days. Changes to the registered details must be notified within 28 days, and some structural changes need a new ABN.

Sources

How this guide was made

Written from published tax-authority guidance and reviewed on 2026-10-11. Everything here is indicative rather than a ruling on your circumstances, and rules change. Confirm anything you rely on with Australian Taxation Office (ATO) before acting on it, and tell us if you find something out of date so we can correct it.

This guide explains the rules in general terms and is not tax advice for your circumstances. Confirm your position with a qualified adviser or with Australian Taxation Office (ATO).