Company Registration

Everything you need to know about starting and running, including how to nominate directors and shareholders.

Does registering a business/company name also trademark the name?

No. Registering a business/company name entitles you to trade under that name but does not give you a legally enforceable right to exclusive use and control, such that a trademark would confer. It is important to check that your proposed business name is not subject to a trademark or patent prior to registration by visiting IP Australia.

Should you choose to trademark your name, your intellectual property right to it will be protected from unauthorised use within Australia.

How do I register a trademark?

You can register your trademark by visiting the IP Australia website and completing an online application. You must meet eligibility requirements for your trademark to be considered. Aside from your status as a legal entity, i.e. individual person, company etc. these include significant difference from existing trademarks.

It can take 3-4 months for your application to be reviewed and there are costs involved.

All information provided on this webpage is general information about our products and services. Nothing on this webpage is intended to be professional advice of any kind and should not be relied on as such. You should obtain specific financial, legal or other professional advice before relying on the content of this webpage. By not seeking such advice, you accept the risk that the information on this webpage may not meet the specific needs of your business. Our liability is limited to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law in accordance with our website terms and conditions.

Updated — Sep 8, 2015

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