Australian guide · reviewed 31 August 2026

How to check business-name availability in Australia

The checks to make before you register or spend money on an Australian business name.

Start by checking the exact business name. Then check the matching domains, similar trade marks and businesses. An available result is a useful first step, but it does not hold the name or prove that you are legally safe to use it.

Search the exact name you want to use

Enter the wording you plan to show customers. ASIC may treat small differences—such as plurals, spaces, punctuation and some similar words—as the same name.

Understand the result

Available means you can consider applying, but ASIC still makes the final decision. Review required means someone may need to assess the name or you may need consent. Unavailable means the name did not pass the availability check.

  • Green: available when checked, but not held for you.
  • Amber: find out what needs review before you continue.
  • Red: try another name.

Check the matching domains

A business name and a domain are separate. Check .com.au and the shorter .au early. The matching .com and .net.au give you extra information. Australian domains may require proof that you or your business meet the rules.

Check trade marks and similar businesses

Registering a business name does not give you trade mark protection. Search for similar trade marks and businesses. Get professional advice if a conflict could be expensive.

Official sources

See how Name Ledger checks names or read another guide.