STARTING A TRADE BUSINESS
How to start your own tradie business - and apply for an ABN.
Going out on your own as a plumber, electrician, gardener, builder or cleaner? This practical checklist explains how to get an ABN and put your new business online.
HOW TO APPLY FOR AN ABNFIRST THINGS FIRST
How do I get an ABN?
An Australian Business Number (ABN) is the 11-digit number that identifies your business to government, other businesses and customers. It is free to apply through the Australian Government.
- Check you are entitled to an ABN. You need to be carrying on, or genuinely starting, a business or enterprise.
- Choose your structure. Many new tradies start as sole traders; companies have different obligations.
- Have your details ready. The ABR may need identity details, your business activity, proposed start date and associate information.
- Use the official application. Apply through the Australian Business Register or Business Registration Service.
- Set up the next essentials. Consider your business name, licences, insurance, tax registrations, invoicing and domain name.
COMMON QUESTIONS
ABN and starting-a-business FAQs
How do I apply for an ABN?
Apply through the official Australian Government Business Registration Service or Australian Business Register. It is free. Before applying, make sure you are carrying on, or genuinely starting, a business and have your proposed business activity and start date ready.
How do I get an ABN as a tradie?
New tradies commonly apply as sole traders, although the right structure depends on your circumstances. Use the official government application, then organise the licences, insurance, invoicing and business name relevant to your trade and state.
How do I start my own tradie business?
Start with an appropriate business structure and ABN, check the licences and insurance you need, set up how you will quote and invoice, and give customers a clear way to find and contact you online.
Does it cost money to get an ABN?
No. An ABN application through the Australian Government is free. Be careful of third-party sites that charge a fee to submit a standard application for you.
AFTER YOU HAVE YOUR ABN
Make it easy for customers to trust and find you.
Once you are ready to quote and invoice, a simple professional website gives customers a place to check services, call you and request a quote. Start with your business name, service areas, phone number, licence details where appropriate and clear photos.
New tradie website package
A$249/year for a clean website and managed hosting under your domain.
Send your logo, phone number, domain name and a few sentences about your work. We build and host it.
START MY TRADIE WEBSITEREADY FOR YOUR FIRST CUSTOMERS?
Get the business online while you get on with the work.
BusinessBox builds straightforward websites for local tradies with hosting included.