Registering your business name

'Nomen Omen', the ancient Romans used to say. Your name is your destiny. Your name reveals who you are and what you do. It distinguishes you from the others. And that is true, especially in today's complicated market place. So, once you've decided to start your own business, one of the most important things you have to think about is your company name. That is the name under which you intend to trade. Of course, as a matter of marketing and image, choosing the right name is essential. It's the first step to make your business (and therefore yourself) stand out from the pack.

There are also some other considerations to take into account:

• Your business name must be registered with the Business Name Registrar of each state or territory in which it operates.
• It generally costs under $150, unless the business name is exactly the same as the surname and all given names (or initials) of every person who operates it.
• No two businesses in the same state can have the same name or names similar enough to cause confusion.

Although exact requirements vary from state to state, in general:

• Business name registration does not give you the sole legal right to use that name. This type of protection can be gained by registering a trademark.
• You cannot register a name that is the same as, or deceptively similar to, an existing business. You cannot have an offensive name, or imply an association with charities, royalty, the Olympics or government. You will also need permission to use any word that implies a level of authority or professional expertise, like 'doctor'.
• If you're planning to conduct business nationally, choose a name that's not already registered in another state.
• You must renew your registration every two or three years.
• The name must be displayed everywhere you conduct the business and on all stationery, invoices and other correspondence.

Have you already chosen your business name?

Go to the following websites for the next steps.

• Click here to see if your business name is available to regsiter:
• It's a legal requirement to make sure your business name doesn't breach a trademark - you can search for existing trademarks here
• If your search for a business name has been successful then you can register at the following state websites:
  • New South Wales
  • Australian Capital Territory
  • Northern Territory
  • Queensland
  • South Australia
  • Tasmania
  • Victoria
  • Western Australia