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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Starting a company in Australia is exciting - and a little daunting. One of the first terms you’ll run into is “ACN”. If you’re asking “what is an ACN number in Australia, and do I need one?”, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll explain what an Australian Company Number is, how it differs from an ABN, how to register and receive one, where and when to use it, and the key legal obligations that come with running a company. We’ll also flag the core documents that protect your new venture from day one.
What Is an ACN in Australia?
An ACN (Australian Company Number) is a unique nine‑digit number issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to every company registered in Australia.
Think of it as your company’s official ID. It confirms your company exists under the Corporations Act and allows regulators, customers and suppliers to identify it quickly and accurately.
Examples you might see include: 123 456 789. The three blocks of three digits are the standard format ASIC uses.
Important points to remember:
- The ACN is only issued to companies (for example, proprietary limited “Pty Ltd” companies, public companies and companies limited by guarantee).
- It’s different to other identifiers (like an ABN) - more on that below.
- It stays with your company for life. If your company is deregistered, that ACN is not reissued to someone else.
ACN vs ABN: What’s the Difference?
It’s common to mix up an ACN with an ABN, but they serve different purposes.
- ACN (Australian Company Number): The nine‑digit number ASIC gives you when you register a company. It’s about your company’s legal identity and compliance under the Corporations Act.
- ABN (Australian Business Number): The 11‑digit number used for dealings with the Australian Business Register and ATO (for example, GST, PAYG and tax invoices). Sole traders, partnerships, trusts and companies use ABNs for tax and trading purposes.
If you operate through a company, you will typically have both an ACN and an ABN.
There’s one helpful shortcut: a company can use its ABN in place of the ACN on many public documents. This is because a company’s ABN is generated from its ACN, and the law allows the ABN to be shown instead of the ACN in most instances. So in practice, many companies simply display their ABN (which also satisfies the identification requirement) on invoices and other documents.
If you’re still deciding whether a company is the right structure for you, professional company set up advice can help you weigh up liability protection, cost and growth plans before you commit.
How Do You Register And Receive an ACN?
You receive your ACN the moment ASIC approves your company registration. Here’s a simple, step‑by‑step overview.
1) Choose Your Structure
Confirm that a company structure suits your goals. A company is a separate legal entity that can offer limited liability and a more professional profile, but it also brings stricter compliance than operating as a sole trader or partnership.
2) Pick a Company Name (Or Use the ACN as the Name)
Most companies trade under a chosen name, but you can also register a company using the ACN as its name initially and adopt a name later. If you plan to trade under a name, check it’s available and compliant, and consider registering a business name for any trading name that’s different from the company’s legal name.
3) Prepare Your Details
You’ll need to settle on the company’s registered office and principal place of business, appoint at least one director who meets Australian residency requirements, and decide how shares will be held. If you’re unsure about the governance rules you’ll use, adopting a tailored Company Constitution at the outset is a smart move.
4) Lodge Your Application With ASIC
Apply online through ASIC or via a professional service. Once the application is approved, ASIC will issue your ACN and a certificate of registration. If you need to obtain or replace that certificate later, you can request an ASIC certificate of registration.
5) Apply for an ABN and Tax Registrations
Most companies apply for an ABN soon after (often at the same time) so they can invoice, register for GST if required and set up PAYG withholding when employing staff. For tax and accounting questions such as GST and PAYG, it’s best to seek advice from a qualified accountant.
6) Get Your Internal Governance in Order
If there’s more than one owner, put a Shareholders Agreement in place early to clarify decision‑making, exits and how shares can be issued or sold. This saves headaches later.
Using Your ACN Correctly
Once you have an ACN, there are some simple but important rules about how you use it.
Where You Must Display It
Companies must display their ACN (or their ABN, if used in place of the ACN) on “public documents” and “eligible negotiable instruments”. In plain English, this generally includes:
- Invoices and tax invoices
- Order forms and statements of account
- Official company letters and notices
- Certain contracts and formal documents issued to customers or suppliers
- Cheques and some other financial instruments issued by the company
You don’t need to display your ACN at your physical premises as a signage requirement. The key is to include it on your official documents so the company can be clearly identified.
As noted earlier, a company can generally show its ABN instead of the ACN on these documents. Many businesses choose this route because clients and the ATO recognise the ABN for invoicing and tax purposes.
How Many Digits, and What if It Changes?
An ACN always has nine digits in the format 123 456 789. It does not change during the life of your company and is not transferable to another entity.
How to Find Your ACN
You can find your ACN on your ASIC registration certificate, by searching your company name on ASIC’s public companies register, or on the official documents your company issues (such as invoices or letterhead).
Executing Documents as a Company
When signing important contracts and deeds, use the correct company execution method (for example, signing under section 127 of the Corporations Act). Following the proper section 127 signing process reduces the risk of disputes about whether a document was validly executed.
Company Compliance And Good Governance
Registering a company and receiving an ACN is the start, not the end, of your legal obligations. Ongoing compliance keeps your company in good standing and protects your brand and directors over the long term.
ASIC Annual Review (Not Annual Returns)
Each year, ASIC sends an annual statement to confirm your company details and collect the annual review fee. Make sure your registered office remains current, your share register and director details are accurate, and you pay the fee on time to avoid penalties or deregistration.
Director Duties and Records
Company directors must act in the best interests of the company, avoid conflicts of interest and keep proper financial records. Good governance starts with clear internal rules (your constitution) and practical systems for board decisions, share issues and record‑keeping.
Consumer Law and Fair Dealing
If you’re selling goods or services, you must comply with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL). This covers truthful advertising, refund rights and warranties against defects, among other obligations. Robust customer terms and clear processes help you comply and build trust.
Employment Law and Workplace Policies
If you’re hiring staff, ensure each team member has a compliant Employment Contract and that you meet your obligations under the Fair Work system (minimum pay, leave entitlements, safety and record‑keeping). Consider simple workplace policies to set expectations and reduce risk.
Privacy and Data Handling
Many companies collect personal information through websites, apps or everyday operations. While the Privacy Act includes exemptions for some small businesses, publishing a clear, practical Privacy Policy is still best practice and often expected by customers and partners. If your turnover is above the threshold or you fall within a category that must comply (for example, health service providers), the APPs will apply.
Intellectual Property and Brand Protection
Your company name, logo and brand assets are key to your identity. Consider registering trade marks to protect them, and use IP clauses in your contracts to ensure your company (not individual contractors or suppliers) owns what it pays for.
Tax, GST and Payroll
Companies need to manage GST registration, PAYG withholding and company tax. Because tax settings depend on your turnover, activities and staffing, speak with a qualified accountant for tailored advice and ongoing support.
Documents You’ll Likely Need
Getting the right documents in place makes compliance practical. Common documents for a new company include:
- Company Constitution: sets out rules for decision‑making, director powers and share rights.
- Shareholders Agreement: clarifies ownership, voting, exits and what happens if someone wants to sell or leaves the business.
- Customer terms (for example, a website’s terms of use or a service agreement) to outline deliverables, payment, IP and liability.
- Privacy Policy: explains how your business collects, uses and stores personal information.
- Employment Contract and simple workplace policies if you’re hiring staff.
Not every company needs all of these on day one, but having tailored, plain‑English documents in place early reduces risk and sets clear expectations with customers, co‑founders, staff and suppliers.
Key Takeaways
- An ACN is a unique nine‑digit number issued by ASIC to identify your company under Australian law; it’s different to an ABN, which is used for tax and trading.
- You receive your ACN as soon as ASIC approves your company registration; if you plan to trade, you’ll also apply for an ABN and any relevant tax registrations.
- Display your ACN on public documents and eligible negotiable instruments - or use your company’s ABN in place of the ACN where permitted.
- Companies must complete ASIC’s annual review, keep details up to date and maintain good governance, financial records and director compliance.
- Protect your position with foundational documents like a Company Constitution, a Shareholders Agreement, customer terms, a Privacy Policy and an Employment Contract if you’re hiring.
- For tax specifics such as GST and PAYG, speak with a qualified accountant; for company setup and legal compliance, getting early legal guidance saves time and reduces risk.
If you’d like a consultation on registering a company and getting your ACN in Australia, you can reach us at 1800 730 617 or team@sprintlaw.com.au for a free, no‑obligations chat. We’re here to help you launch with confidence.
