If your Australian business turnover hits $75,000, GST registration isn't optional — it's the law. Here's exactly how to register, what it means for your invoices, and what to do once you're registered.
Quick Answer
Register for GST through the ATO Business Portal or myGov. You must register if your annual turnover exceeds $75,000 ($150,000 for non-profits). Registration usually takes 1-5 business days.
You must register for GST if:
The $75,000 threshold applies to your gross turnover — total revenue before expenses, not profit. If you expect to hit this in the next 12 months, register now rather than scrambling later.
You need an Australian Business Number (ABN) before you can register for GST. If you don't have one, apply at abr.gov.au. ABN registration is free and usually instant.
Go to business.gov.au or sign in to myGov and link your ATO account. Both methods work — the Business Portal is preferred for business registrations.
In the ATO portal, go to "Manage your registrations" and select "Register for GST." Alternatively, you can register by calling the ATO on 13 28 66.
You'll need your ABN, business name, business activity, estimated annual turnover, and the date from which you want GST to apply. Choose your BAS lodgement frequency (monthly, quarterly, or annually).
GST registration is usually processed within 1-5 business days. You'll receive a confirmation letter from the ATO with your GST registration details.
Once registered, all your invoices must include GST. Update your invoice template to show the GST amount separately and the words "Tax Invoice." Your ABN must also be on every invoice.
If you're close to the $75,000 threshold, registering voluntarily can make sense. It signals professionalism to business clients (who can claim your GST back), and lets you claim input tax credits on your own expenses — things like equipment, software, and professional services.
The downside: you need to lodge a BAS regularly and manage the GST component on your invoices. Good invoicing software handles this automatically.
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Start free trialThe GST registration threshold is $75,000 in annual turnover for most businesses, and $150,000 for non-profit organisations. Ride-share and taxi drivers must register regardless of turnover.
GST registration through the ATO Business Portal or myGov is usually processed within 1-5 business days. In most cases your GST registration is effective from the date you applied.
Yes. You can voluntarily register for GST even if your turnover is below $75,000. This can be beneficial if your clients are businesses that can claim GST credits, or if you have significant business expenses with GST you want to claim back.
If you exceed the $75,000 threshold and don't register, the ATO can backdate your registration and require you to pay GST on all sales from when you should have registered — even if you didn't collect it from clients. Penalties and interest may also apply.
Once registered for GST, you must add 10% GST to most goods and services. Some items are GST-free (fresh food, medical services, education) or input-taxed (residential rent, financial services). Always check the ATO's GST classification for your specific services.