Do I need to register for a business name as well as a company name?

Generally, If you intend to trade under a name that differs from your company name in any way, you are required to register for a business name.

If you however wish to trade under the same name that your company is registered as, you will not be required to register for a business name.

For example:

If you intend to trade under your company name without the legal element (PTY LTD) then the name must be registered as a business name.

Case Study 1:

You own the company ‘WENDY'S FRUIT SUPRISE PTY LTD’ but you want to trade as ‘WENDY'S FRUIT SUPRISE’ –  In this instance, you must register the business name in order to trader without the legal element (PTY LTD).

The same rules apply if you wish to trade under a name that differs from your registered company name completely.

Case Study 2:

You own the company ‘WENDY'S FRUIT SUPRISE PTY LTD’ but you want to trade as ‘MELBOURNE'S BEST FRUIT PLATTERS’ – In this instance, you must register the business name in order to trader under the different name.