How to register your company in Australia (Step-by-step guide 2025)

<p>Australia is one of the markets with a stable economy and great growth potential, an ideal destination for businesses wishing to expand their operations internationally. </p> <p>To be successful in opening a company in Australia, you need to clearly understand the legal processes and regulations of this country.</p> Our article will provide a step-by-step guide to setting up a company in Australia effectively and legally. 

The following article by GLA will provide detailed instructions on the steps to set up a company in Australia effectively and legally.

1. What are the initial requirements for incorporating a company in Australia?

Before starting the registration process, you must meet certain basic requirements. Below are the key elements to consider when establishing a company in Australia.

1.1. Office address in Australia

An Australian company must have at least one director who is a lawful resident of Australia. Additional foreign directors can be appointed if needed.

GLA offers nominee director services to help meet this requirement. The appointed director will fulfill the legal obligation but will not be involved in company management. 

1.2. Company Director

An Australian company requires at least one director to be a lawful resident of Australia. A company can also appoint an additional foreign director to the company.

GLA will support the service of appointed directors for companies in Australia. Directors will be hired to meet the requirements of opening a company, without the right to participate in the management of the company.

1.3. Shareholders

A company in Australia must have at least one shareholder. This can be an individual or a legal entity. Shareholders may be foreign nationals, Australian citizens, or permanent residents.

1.4. Minimum capital

There is no minimum capital requirement for setting up a company in Australia. Businesses can register any amount of capital based on their needs and objectives.

2. Step-by-step process to set up a company in Australia

Setting up a company in Australia can be simple and efficient with the right guidance. In this section GLA provides full support with a structured simple-to-follow process with 6 steps:

3. What do you need to do to comply with annual obligations for your Australia company?

Once your company is registered, you must comply with the following legal obligations:

• Annual tax returns: Australian companies must lodge an annual tax return with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This report includes financial information and the tax payable.
• Financial statements: Limited companies must submit annual financial statements to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). These reports help ASIC monitor business performance, and companies may need to provide additional information upon request.
• Update for company changes: If there are changes in directors, shareholders, or company address, the company must notify ASIC within 28 days to keep records up to date.
• Record keeping requirement: Companies must store financial records, tax returns, and other important documents for at least 7 years, as required by ATO and ASIC.

GLA provides ongoing support to ensure businesses remain compliant with annual legal requirements, making operations smoother and hassle-free. 

4. How can GLA help you register and manage your company in Australia sustainably?

With years of experience in business consulting, GLA has successfully helped many foreign entrepreneurs expanding their companies in Australia. Our key supports are:

• Register your company in Australia with end-to-end guidance.
• Help you choose the most suitable Australian state for your company operations.
• Recommend the right company type based on your business model.
• Handle all necessary paperwork for company registration.
• Provide expert tax advice tailored to your business activities.
• Assist in obtaining the required licenses for your industry
• Support you in opening both physical and online bank account setup in Australia.
• Prepare financial statements and tax returns in accordance with Australian accounting standards.

5. FAQs about Australia company formation

Highlights

• You should select a company type that fits your business needs and size. The Proprietary Limited Company (Pty Ltd) is the most popular option.
• Australian companies must have at least one local director to be eligible for registration. GLA provides Nominee Director Services, ensuring businesses can operate with 1% foreign ownership.
• Companies must register for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and Goods and Services Tax (GST) with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to comply with tax regulations.
• Your companies must prepare financial reports, submit annual tax returns, and update company details with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to remain compliant and legally operational.