An Australian Company Number (ACN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to every company registered under the Corporations Act 2001.
Who needs an ACN?
Only companies (for example, a Pty Ltd). Sole traders, partnerships and most trusts don't have an ACN — they use an ABN instead.
ACN vs ABN
| ACN | ABN | |
|---|---|---|
| Digits | 9 | 11 |
| Issued by | ASIC | Australian Business Register |
| Who has one | Companies only | Any business or enterprise |
| Purpose | Identifies the company under corporations law | Identifies the business for tax and dealings |
A company usually has both. A company's ABN is generally based on its ACN, with two extra digits at the front.
How to get an ACN
- Choose a company name (or use the ACN as the name) and check it's available.
- Decide on directors, shareholders, share structure and registered office.
- Register the company with ASIC — directly or through an accountant, lawyer or registration provider. ASIC charges a registration fee.
- ASIC issues the ACN once the company is registered.
- Then apply for the company's ABN and TFN.
Displaying your ACN
Companies must show their ACN (or ABN, if it includes the ACN) on certain documents, such as invoices, contracts and letters.
Keeping it
An ACN doesn't expire, but the company must keep its details up to date with ASIC and pay its annual review fee. Companies that don't can be deregistered.
Common mistakes
- Not checking the name is available before applying
- Errors in director or shareholder details
- Forgetting to apply for the ABN and GST after registering the company
Setting up a company has legal and tax consequences. We recommend speaking to an accountant or lawyer. For sole traders, see how to get an ABN.