ASIC Registration in Australia – What It Is, Who Needs It & How to Register a Company

ASIC registration refers to registering your company or business name with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). ASIC is Australia’s corporate regulator responsible for overseeing companies, financial services, and compliance with the Corporations Act 2001.

If you’re starting a company, managing shares, or registering a business name, you must go through ASIC. At Ozobooks, we simplify the process and help you remain compliant long after registration.

When Do You Need to Register with ASIC?

You must register with ASIC if:

• You’re starting a company (Pty Ltd or public)
  
• You want to reserve or change a company name
  
• You plan to register a business name (even if you’re a sole trader)
  
• You’re updating company addresses, directors, or shareholders
  
• You’re lodging annual company statements or changes
  

💬 “Ozobooks registered our company and made sure we didn’t miss a single ASIC deadline. Saved us stress and late fees.” — Tracy, Online Retail Founder

👉 Starting a company? [Get ASIC registered with Ozobooks →]

What Does ASIC Register?

• Companies (e.g. Pty Ltd)
  
• Business Names
  
• Directors and Shareholders
  
• Company Officeholder Changes
  
• Annual Company Statements
  
• Company Deregistration
  

What You Need to Register a Company

• A unique company name
  
• At least one director and one shareholder
  
• A registered business address in Australia
  
• Details for share structure and business activity
  
• Payment of ASIC fees
  

ASIC Fees (as of 2025)

• Company registration: $576
  
• Business name registration: $42 (1 year) or $98 (3 years)
  
• Late fees for annual statement: From $93 to $387 depending on how late
  

How Ozobooks Helps

• Checks company name availability
  
• Prepares all ASIC forms and documentation
  
• Registers company or business name on your behalf
  
• Tracks annual review dates and ASIC filing obligations
  
• Updates director/shareholder details when needed
  

FAQ:

Q1: Do I need ASIC registration if I’m a sole trader?
Only if you’re using a business name or want to formally register a company later.

Q2: What’s the difference between ABN and ASIC registration?
ABN is for tax identity. ASIC registration gives you a legal entity (company) or trading name.

Q3: What happens if I forget to file with ASIC?
You may face late fees, deregistration, or director penalties.

Q4: Can I change my company name later?
Yes, but you must lodge the change with ASIC and pay a fee.