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Australia company help: answers by topic

22 answers for owners and founders of a Australia company, from ordering to banking, annual compliance and what happens after incorporation. General information, not legal or tax advice; your specialist confirms how it applies to you.

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Getting started

Can any Australian address be my company's registered office?

It must be a street address in Australia where documents can be served, not a PO box. If the company does not occupy the premises, the occupier must consent in writing. We confirm the address and the consent before lodging with ASIC.

Source: Change a company address, Australian Securities and Investments Commission

Can a non-resident set up a Pty Ltd?

Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of the shares in most cases. The catch is the director rule: at least one director of a proprietary company must ordinarily reside in Australia. Foreign investment approval (FIRB) applies only to certain acquisitions, such as land or sensitive sectors.

How long does registration take?

ASIC usually registers the company within 1–3 business days after KYC approval and director IDs are in place. The ABN and GST registration follow, usually within a few days to a few weeks. Director IDs for overseas directors are often the slowest step.

Do I have to travel to Australia?

No. Formation is remote and you upload KYC documents in the client portal. Some banks may ask directors to verify identity in person or by video; that is the bank's decision.

Is the company register public?

Yes. Anyone can buy an ASIC extract showing the company's directors, secretary and, for a proprietary company, its members. Keep this in mind if privacy matters to you.

What if the company cannot be registered?

If we cannot incorporate your company, we refund the service fee (minus courier costs).

Pricing & payment

How much does an Australian company cost with OCC?

From US$1,890 all-in for year 1, and US$1,360 from year 2. The ASIC registration fee is included in the package price. A resident director service and GST bookkeeping are quoted separately if you need them.

Banking

How do Australian banks check directors who live overseas?

Each bank sets its own process. Many need certified identity documents or a video or in-person check for every director and signatory, and some only open accounts when a director lives in Australia. We tell you which institutions fit your setup before you apply; the bank decides.

Business account support

Should I wait for the ABN before applying for an Australian bank account?

Usually yes. Most banks ask for the company's ACN and ABN on the application, and the ABN is often needed to receive payments from Australian customers. We apply for the ABN straight after ASIC registration, so the bank application can follow quickly.

Business account support

Can you open an Australian bank account?

We introduce you to suitable banks or EMIs and prepare the application. The institution makes the decision and sets its own identity checks for non-resident directors.

Compliance

What company tax rate applies?

30% by default. A base rate entity pays 25%: aggregated turnover under A$50,000,000 and no more than 80% passive income. GST registration is required once GST turnover reaches A$75,000.

Is an audit required?

Not for most small proprietary companies. Large proprietary companies must prepare audited financial reports. A small company controlled by a foreign company may also need to lodge audited reports unless ASIC relief applies (confirm with your specialist).

What are the annual filings?

Each year ASIC sends an annual statement on the registration anniversary. You check the details, pay the review fee and pass a solvency resolution. You also lodge a company tax return with the ATO, plus activity statements if registered for GST.

After incorporation

What documents does an overseas director need for an Australian director ID?

A paper application with certified copies of identity documents, because the online route needs Australian identity documents. Certified copies must meet the rules on the form, so check who may certify them in your country before signing. Start this on day one, as paper applications take the longest.

Certification and apostille

Source: About director ID, Australian Business Registry Services

Do I need an Australian-resident director?

Yes. The Corporations Act requires at least one director who ordinarily lives in Australia. If you have no one locally, a resident director service can be quoted separately; the director is disclosed to the registry and carries full legal duties. Expect checks on both sides.

What is a director ID?

A 15-digit identifier issued by Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS). Every director needs one before being appointed. Non-residents without Australian identity documents apply by paper form with certified copies, which can take longer, so start early.

Can't find it? Ask an Australia specialist, reply within 1 business day.

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