Applying directly for an ABN through the Australian Business Register is free. A professional may charge a service fee to assist with the application. Business names, companies and other registrations can have separate charges.
What this means in practice
Before paying for assistance, check what is included. The fee may cover checking your information, preparing the application and helping with related registrations. It should not be presented as a government ABN application fee. Ask for a quote that separates professional services and any applicable third-party charges.
Your next steps
- Compare direct and assisted options
- Check the included work
- Separate professional and government charges
- Keep the registration confirmation
Get help with the next step
If this relates to your business, tell us about your current records and the task you need help with. We can explain our service scope and the information needed before work starts.
Official guidance: Australian Government: Business Registration Service ↗
General information prepared on 26 September 2026. Rules and individual circumstances can change. Confirm the treatment that applies to you before acting.
Prepared by the Affordable Bookkeeper content team. Our services and practitioner arrangements.
