Alex is Sprintlaw's co-founder and principal lawyer. Alex previously worked at a top-tier firm as a lawyer specialising in technology and media contracts, and founded a digital agency which he sold in 2015.
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Thinking about delivering with DoorDash in Australia? It’s a flexible way to earn income on your own schedule - but it also means stepping into the world of self-employment.
If you’re a Dasher, you’re generally treated as an independent contractor rather than an employee. That has legal and tax implications, and the first thing most drivers hear about is an ABN.
In this guide, we’ll explain what an ABN is, when you need one, how to apply, and the key tax and compliance points to keep on your radar as a DoorDash contractor in Australia. We’ll also cover business structure options and practical tips to help you stay compliant from day one.
Do DoorDash Drivers Need An ABN In Australia?
In most cases, yes. When you deliver for DoorDash, you’re operating a small business as an independent contractor. That typically means you’re carrying on a “business activity” and you’ll need an Australian Business Number (ABN) to work and get paid.
An ABN is an 11‑digit identifier issued by the Australian Business Register (managed by the ATO). It helps identify your business for tax and compliance purposes. In practice, platforms like DoorDash usually require you to provide an ABN during onboarding.
If you’re unsure whether your activities amount to a business, it’s worth looking at what defines a business activity in Australia. And if you’re weighing up the pros and cons of registering, these advantages and disadvantages of having an ABN are a helpful starting point.
Important: There’s no such thing as a special “DoorDash company number” for drivers. Your ABN is the key registration you’ll use in Australia for your delivery business.
ABN, GST And Tax: What Should Dashers Know?
As an independent contractor, you’re responsible for your own tax affairs. That includes lodging a tax return that reports your DoorDash income and any expenses you can legitimately claim as deductions.
Income Tax Basics
- You’ll declare your net income (earnings minus allowable business expenses) in your individual tax return each year.
- Common deductions can include a proportion of fuel, vehicle running costs, phone and data used for work, protective equipment and certain stationery. Keep good records to substantiate your claims.
- Depending on your earnings, the ATO may place you into Pay As You Go (PAYG) instalments so you pay tax during the year.
Do DoorDash Drivers Need To Register For GST?
Most food delivery drivers do not need to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) unless your business has a GST turnover of $75,000 or more. That’s different from “ride‑sourcing” (e.g. carrying passengers), where drivers must register for GST regardless of turnover.
If you do rideshare as well as food delivery, you may need to register. For context on why ride‑sourcing is treated differently, see our guide to GST requirements for Uber drivers in Australia.
If you’re registered for GST, you’ll need to charge GST on taxable supplies, lodge Business Activity Statements (BAS), and claim GST credits on eligible business purchases.
ATO Data Sharing
Digital platforms report payments made to contractors to the ATO under the Sharing Economy Reporting Regime. Make sure your records align with what’s reported - it’s a simple way to avoid mismatches at tax time.
Tip: Tax rules can change and personal circumstances differ. It’s a good idea to speak with a qualified accountant about your tax, GST and record‑keeping obligations.
How To Apply For An ABN (Step‑By‑Step)
Applying for an ABN is free and can be completed online in about 10–20 minutes. Here’s a simple roadmap.
Step 1: Confirm You’re Carrying On A Business
Most Dashers are. If you’re operating to earn income in a commercial way (not as a hobby), you’ll generally meet this test.
Step 2: Gather Your Details
- Tax File Number (TFN)
- Proof of identity (e.g. driver’s licence or passport)
- Business contact details (email, phone, address)
- Start date of your business activity and a short description (e.g. “courier and food delivery services”)
Step 3: Apply Online
Submit your application via the Australian Business Register (ABR). Many applicants receive their ABN immediately; some applications are reviewed and take longer.
Step 4: Keep Your Details Up To Date
Once you have an ABN, your basic details are listed publicly on the ABN Lookup. You can check if an ABN is active at any time and update your details if they change.
It’s also helpful to understand whether and when an ABN can be cancelled (for example, if you stop delivering for an extended period).
If you’re wondering whether you can operate without one - for DoorDash and most gig platforms in Australia, you’ll be expected to provide an ABN, and running a business without an ABN can create withholding and invoicing issues.
Choosing A Business Structure: Sole Trader Or Company?
You don’t need to set up a company to deliver with DoorDash. Many Dashers operate as sole traders - it’s simple to start and low‑cost to run.
Sole Trader
- Fast and inexpensive to set up (ABN registration only).
- You control and own the business personally.
- Unlimited personal liability - your personal assets can be at risk if there are debts or claims.
Company
- A separate legal entity with limited liability protection.
- More setup and ongoing costs, and additional compliance responsibilities.
- Can be worth considering if you plan to scale (e.g. multiple vehicles/riders or broader logistics services).
If you trade under a name that isn’t your personal name (e.g. “Fast City Couriers”), you’ll need to register a business name. A business name doesn’t create a separate entity - it’s just a trading name - which is one reason people compare a business name vs company name when planning how they want to operate.
Compliance Essentials For DoorDash Contractors
Working for yourself comes with a few ongoing obligations. Here are the key areas to think about.
Record‑Keeping
- Keep track of your income and expenses (apps or accounting software can help).
- Store receipts, logbooks (if claiming car expenses), and invoices in case the ATO asks for evidence.
- Set aside money for tax and, if registered, GST during the year.
Superannuation
As a general rule, independent contractors organise their own super contributions. In some limited situations contractors can be entitled to super if they’re paid mainly for their labour under certain arrangements. This is fact‑specific and evolving - if you’re unsure, speak with an accountant or adviser about your circumstances and retirement planning.
Insurance And Risk
- Consider public liability insurance and personal accident/illness cover.
- Check your motor vehicle insurance covers delivery/commercial use.
- Follow road rules and safety guidance - it protects you and your business.
Invoicing And Payments
DoorDash typically pays you via the app’s payment system, so you won’t issue traditional invoices to customers. However, you should still keep your own records of payouts, fees and adjustments for tax purposes.
Privacy And Data
If you later build your own website, mailing list or booking pages to expand into broader courier work, consider the legal side of collecting personal information (for example, implementing a Privacy Policy and Website Terms if you start gathering customer data).
Practical Tips To Set Yourself Up For Success
- Open a separate bank account for your delivery income and expenses. It simplifies tax time.
- Track kilometres, fuel and other costs as you go - don’t leave it until June.
- Set a reminder to review your earnings mid‑year; if you’re trending toward the GST threshold, plan ahead for BAS obligations.
- Think about your growth path. If you expand beyond solo delivery (e.g. subcontractors or multiple vehicles), revisit whether a company structure could reduce personal risk.
- Keep your registrations tidy: make sure your ABN remains active, details are current, and your intended business activities are accurately described.
Key Takeaways
- Most DoorDash drivers in Australia operate as independent contractors and will need an ABN to work and get paid.
- Food delivery contractors generally only need to register for GST once their turnover reaches $75,000 (different rules apply to ride‑sourcing).
- You must report your DoorDash income, keep reliable records and set aside funds for tax; an accountant can help you optimise deductions and stay compliant.
- Sole trader is the simplest structure to start with; a company may suit if you scale and want limited liability protection.
- Look after ongoing compliance: record‑keeping, insurance, and keeping your ABN details current are all part of running your delivery business.
- If you trade under a name that isn’t your own, register a business name - this is different to registering a company.
If you would like a consultation on DoorDash and ABN requirements for your specific situation, you can reach us at 1800 730 617 or team@sprintlaw.com.au for a free, no-obligations chat.
