ASIC Business Name Search: A Simple Guide to Get You Started
Starting a new business is one of the most exciting steps in life. Youve got the idea, the motivation, and the vision. But before you can launch your dream company, theres one crucial step you cant ignoreASIC business name search.
Lets break it down in simple words, so youll walk away from this article not only understanding the process but also feeling confident enough to do it yourself. Plus, well share some helpful tips, real-life examples, and the best way to get professional help throughPerfect Accounting PTY Ltd.
What Is anASIC Business Name Search?
AnASIC business name searchis a free tool provided by theAustralian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). It lets you check if thebusiness nameyou want is already taken or available to register.
In simple terms, if you want to name your business Bobs Burgers, you need to check with ASIC first to make sure no one else in Australia is already using that name.
This process isessential, because:
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Youcant registera business name thats already taken.
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It helps you avoidlegal issueslater.
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It confirms whether your brand idea isunique and available.
Why theBusiness Name SearchMatters
Lets say youre excited to open a coffee shop and decide to call itSunrise Beans.You get signs printed, social media pages made, and even start promoting locally. But weeks later, you find out someone already owns that name in Sydney. Not only can this lead to legal trouble, but you also risk losing money and damaging your brands reputation.
Doing a simpleASIC business name searchcan save you all that stress.
How to Do anASIC Business Name Search(Step-by-Step)
Heres a straightforward guide to checking your name through ASIC:
Step 1: Visit the Official ASIC Website
Go to theASIC Searchpage. Youll find multiple search options, but for this, chooseBusiness Names Index.
Step 2: Type the Name You Want
In the search box, type thebusiness nameyoure thinking of using. You can also enter partial names if youre still brainstorming.
Step 3: Review the Results
Youll see a list of:
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Exact matches (which means that name is taken).
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Similar names (you may still face issues using a name too close to another).
If the namedoesnt appear, thats great newsit might be available.
Step 4: Check the Status
If a name appears but the status saysCancelledorDeregistered,it might still be up for grabs. However, its smart to be cautious and consider how recognizable or recently active the name was.
Pro Tip: Think Beyond Just Name Availability
When choosing a name, dont just settle for whatsavailable. Ask yourself:
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Is the nameeasy to spell and remember?
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Does it represent what your business does?
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Can you get thedomain namefor a matching website?
Also, consider doing atrademark searchto protect your brand legally.
?? Registering Your Business Name with ASIC
Once youve done theASIC business name searchand found a name you love, its time toregister it.
Youll need:
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AnABN (Australian Business Number) which you can get from theAustralian Business Register.
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Basic contact details.
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To pay a small fee usually$42 for 1 yearor$98 for 3 years.
A Real-Life Story
Emily wanted to launch a handmade skincare brand called Glowly. She skipped the name search and started promoting on Instagram. A month in, she received a cease-and-desist letter from a business that had already registered Glowly Organics.
The whole thing cost her thousands in legal advice and rebranding.
Dont be like Emily. Take 10 minutes to do anASIC business name searchbefore anything else. Its free, and it can save you a fortune.
Let the Experts Help You Out
If this sounds a bit overwhelming or if you just want it donequickly and correctly, we highly recommend working with professionals likePerfect Accounting PTY Ltd.
Their expert team can:
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Conduct yourASIC business name search.
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Handlebusiness name registration.
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Assist withABN applications.
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Set up yourcompany structure(like Sole Trader, Partnership, or Pty Ltd).
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Offerongoing accounting, BAS, and tax support.
When starting a business, having an expert by your side makes all the difference.Perfect Accounting PTY Ltdhas helped hundreds of startups and small businesses across Australia get set up the right way.
? Quick Checklist Before You Register
Heres a short checklist to ensure youre ready:
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Done anASIC business name search
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Checked fordomain name availability
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Searched fortrademark conflicts
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Have yourABN ready
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Decided on abusiness structure
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Talked toPerfect Accounting PTY Ltdfor expert help
Final Thoughts
Your business name is more than just a labelits thefoundation of your brand. Make sure its available, legally sound, and something you can proudly stand behind.
Doing anASIC business name searchis simple, fast, and crucial. And with experts likePerfect Accounting PTY Ltdready to guide you, you dont have to do it alone.
Start your journey today by visitingPerfect Accounting your trusted partner in business setup and beyond.
