ACN has 9 digits. ABN has 11 digits.
ASIC issues an Australian Company Number when a company is registered. The Australian Business Register issues an Australian Business Number to an eligible entity. A company can have both.
ACN and ABN compared
| ACN | ABN | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Australian Company Number | Australian Business Number |
| Length | 9 digits | 11 digits |
| Issued by | ASIC | Australian Business Register |
| Who receives it? | A company registered in Australia | An eligible business or entity, including a company |
| Main purpose | Identify the registered company | Identify the entity in business and government dealings |
When does a company receive its ACN?
The ACN is issued when ASIC registers the company. It appears on the certificate of registration and must be shown on certain company documents. The company's ABN will usually include its nine digit ACN as the final nine digits, but they remain different identifiers.
When should a company apply for an ABN?
A registered company is entitled to an ABN. It will generally need one for tax registrations, invoicing and dealings with other businesses and government. An ABN application is free through the official Australian Business Register.
The Australian Government Business Registration Service can combine a company application with an ABN and several tax registrations.
Do not confuse the numbers with a business name
An ACN and ABN identify an entity. A business name is the name used to trade. If a company trades under a different name, it may need a separate business name registration.
Continue with company name versus business name.