What should I consider when choosing a Business Name?

When choosing a business name it is important to appreciate that the Registrar-General  may refuse to register a name in certain circumstances, for example where:

• It is the same as an existing registered business, company or incorporated association name.
• It is considered 'undesirable' for registration.
• It will, in the opinion of the Registrar-General, be likely to cause confusion with another registered business name in the ACT.
• The name or words in the name are restricted by Ministerial Prohibition or State or Federal law.
• It contains foreign language characters.

In addition, if the proposed name suggests that the applicant is a professional person, evidence of the relevant qualifications/registration may be required for example doctor, lawyer etc.

• What is a Business Name?
• What should I consider when choosing a Business Name?
• How do I register a Business Name?
• How do I make changes to the registered particulars of a Business Name?
• How do I renew a Business Name?
• How do I cease a Business Name?
• How do I get Access to the Business Names Register?
• Business Names Practice Manual - Useful practical information as used by staff within the Registrar-General's Office