The Australian Business Register (ABR) was upgraded to a new IT platform on 28 May 2012, providing improved system stability and a new look and feel for users.
The upgrade resulted in some new functions for the ABR and some current functions being amended or becoming temporarily unavailable.
New functions
The ABR will link you to the new business name registration service provided by the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC).
The new service will replace current state and territory systems, meaning businesses only need to register their name nationally once.
Existing registered business names will be automatically transferred to the new business name register. However, to ensure your registered business name appears on the ABR and Australian business number (ABN) Lookup from 28 May, you need to provide your ABN to ASIC.
The ABR will no longer collect or update non-registered business names or trading names. However, existing trading names will continue to appear on ABN lookup until mid-2013.
Functions temporarily unavailable
Goods and services tax (GST) and pay as you go withholding (PAYG) registrations will not be available as part of the online ABN application until late 2012. You will need to get an AUSkey and apply for these roles using the Business Portal, or talk to your tax agent.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 15 May 2013