BUSINESS NAMES

A business name is simply a name or title under which a person or other legal entity trades. If the business structure you have chosen is as a sole trader, a partnership or a trust, and not as a company, you are required to register your business name in the state or territory in which you will operate. You don’t need to register a business name if you plan to conduct your business under your or your partner’s first name and surname. If you are planning to set up your business in more than one state or territory, you need to register your business name separately in each state or territory. Other conditions to consider

• Names that are the same or similar to names that have already been registered will not be allowed • Displaying the name • The timing of registration and the commencement of its use

• Notification of any changes Registration of a business name does not in itself give you any proprietary rights – only a trademark can give you that kind of protection. Ensure you have exclusive use of your name now and in the future throughout Australia by registering a trademark.

You should be aware of this as you could be fined should there be a breach of these regulations. See more info at www.

business.gov.au