Australian Company Number (ACN)

Definition

The Australian Company Number (ACN) is a unique nine-digit identifier issued to companies registered in Australia. 

What is an Australian Company Number?

The ACN serves as a unique identifier for companies registered in Australia. It separates one company from another and is used for various administrative and regulatory purposes.

Companies operating in Australia are required to register with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and get an ACN. This registration process involves providing details about the company’s structure, directors, shareholders, and registered office address.

The ACN is a legal requirement for companies operating in Australia. It must be displayed on all public documents, including invoices, contracts, and official correspondence. Failure to include the ACN on these documents may result in penalties or non-compliance with regulatory requirements.

Once assigned, the ACN remains with the company throughout its existence, regardless of changes in ownership, directors, or structure. It provides a consistent identifier for the company, facilitating continuity and record-keeping.

The ACN is publicly accessible through ASIC’s registers, allowing individuals and organisations to search for and verify information about registered companies. This transparency promotes trust and confidence in the corporate sector.

Example of an Australian Company Number

An example of a Australian Company Number could be:

ACN: 123 456 789

This is a made-up ACN for illustrative purposes only. In reality, ACNs are unique nine-digit numbers assigned to registered companies in Australia. Each ACN is specific to a particular company and serves as a unique identifier in business transactions and interactions with government agencies.