How to Register a Pakistani Business in Australia: A Complete Guide
A step-by-step guide for Pakistani entrepreneurs on registering a business in Australia — from ABN registration to listing on South Asian directories.
How to Register a Pakistani Business in Australia
Australia is home to a large and growing Pakistani community, with significant concentrations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. If you are a Pakistani entrepreneur looking to start or formalise a business in Australia, this guide covers every step you need.
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Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Before registering anything, decide on your business structure. The four main options in Australia are:
- Sole Trader — Simplest structure, you trade under your own name or a business name. Cheapest to set up.
- Partnership — Two or more people run a business together and share profits.
- Company Pty Ltd — A separate legal entity. More complex but protects your personal assets.
- Trust — Often used for family businesses to distribute income.
Most Pakistani small businesses start as a sole trader or Pty Ltd company.
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Step 2: Register for an ABN Australian Business Number
Your ABN is a unique 11-digit number that identifies your business to the government and other businesses. It is free to apply and takes about 20 minutes online.
How to get an ABN:
1. Go to the Australian Business Register abr.gov.au
2. Click "Apply for an ABN"
3. Enter your personal details, business activity, and expected income
4. You will receive your ABN instantly if your application is straightforward
You need an ABN to:
- Invoice clients and customers
- Register for GST
- Claim business tax deductions
- Open a business bank account
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Step 3: Register Your Business Name if trading under a name
If you are trading as anything other than your own full legal name, you must register a business name with ASIC asic.gov.au. The cost is $42 for one year or $98 for three years.
Tips for Pakistani business owners:
- Check the ASIC name availability tool before deciding on a name
- You can trade under both an English name and a translated name — both can be registered
- Your business name does not give you trademark protection
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Step 4: Register for GST if turnover exceeds $75,000
If your annual business turnover is $75,000 or more or $150,000 for non-profits, you must register for GST through the ATO ato.gov.au. Even below this threshold, you can register voluntarily.
Registering for GST means:
- You charge 10% GST on your sales
- You can claim back GST on your business purchases
- You must lodge a Business Activity Statement BAS quarterly or monthly
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Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account
Open a dedicated business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate. Most Australian banks offer business accounts for new businesses. You will need your ABN and proof of identity.
Popular options include Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, NAB, and Westpac. Some Pakistani business owners also use online banks like Up, Wise, or Revolut for their lower fees.
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Step 6: Understand Your Tax Obligations
As a business owner in Australia, you need to:
- Lodge an annual tax return — Due October 31 each year or later if you use a tax agent
- Pay income tax on business profits
- Pay superannuation for any employees 11.5% of ordinary time earnings from July 2024
- Keep records for at least 5 years
The ATO has free tax resources in multiple languages. You can also use a registered tax agent who understands small business.
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Step 7: Get the Right Licences and Permits
Depending on your industry, you may need additional licences:
- Food business — Food handler certificate, council approval, food safety supervisor
- Construction — Builder's licence, contractor licence state-specific
- Health and beauty — Beautician licence, salon registration
- Childcare — Working with Children Check WWCC
- Import/export — Customs broker, import permits for specific goods
Check business.gov.au for licences specific to your industry and state.
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Step 8: List Your Business on Desi Firms
Once your business is registered, list it on Desi Firms — Australia's South Asian business South Asian Business South Asian Business Directory in Sunnybankhttps://desifirms.com.au/blog/south-asian-business-directory-in-sunnybank/ in Canningtonhttps://desifirms.com.au/blog/south-asian-business-directory-in-cannington/. Pakistani-owned businesses are a large and active part of the Desi Firms community.
Why list on Desi Firms:
- Reach the Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi and Nepali communities across Australia
- Get discovered in category and city searches
- Add your business hours, location, photos, and services
- Receive customer reviews and inquiries directly
Create your free listing at desifirms.com.auhttps://desifirms.com.au.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Pakistani person on a visa start a business in Australia?
Yes, if your visa allows you to work and run a business. Student visa holders Subclass 500 have work restrictions. Skilled visas 482, 189, 190 generally allow business ownership. Always check your visa conditions at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
Do I need to be an Australian citizen to register a business?
No. Permanent residents and many temporary visa holders can register a business in Australia. Companies registered in Australia must have at least one director who ordinarily resides in Australia.
How long does it take to register a business in Australia?
An ABN is issued instantly online. A business name takes 1–2 business days. A Pty Ltd company takes 2–5 business days through ASIC.
Is there a Pakistani business association in Australia?
Yes, the Pakistan Australia Business Council PABC supports Pakistani entrepreneurs. You can also connect with the broader South Asian business community through Desi Firms.
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Starting a business in Australia as a Pakistani entrepreneur is a straightforward process once you know the steps. The Australian government actively supports small business, and there are strong Pakistani and South Asian networks across every major city to help you succeed.