How do I transfer an existing business name to my company?

The transfer of business names, whether due to on-selling or merely switching holders (perhaps from sole trader to company), can be conducted online via the ASIC website.

Simply login to or create your ASIC Connect account and follow the steps outlined here.

Alternatively, if you have received a transfer number to register yourself or your company as the new holder of a business name, then you will need to accept the transfer by following this process. The person or entity accepting the transfer will be required to pay a fee of $36 to register the business name for 1 year or $85 for 3 years. The previous renewal period does not carry over to the new holder, meaning that the registration begins afresh from the date that the business name transfer is accepted.

N.B. The transfer number will only be valid for four months from the date that the previous holder began the transfer process. Once this period lapses the name will become available to anyone.

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Updated — May 25, 2023