Registering an ABN: A Freelancer’s Guide to Working in Australia

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Do you want to work as a freelancer in Australia? Check out this freelancer’s guide to working in Australia and understand all the important things you need.

Are you thinking to work as a freelancer but you get little skeptical after knowing the main challenges in freelancing?

Freelancing is increasing in popularity these days as many workers are switching to the flexibility and freedom that come with the lifestyle. If you have a valuable skill that can be done outside of the context of a permanent office, then you should consider the benefits that freelancing can provide.

However, getting to the stage of actually working as a freelancer requires some preparation and planning. Even if you are trained as a professional in a particular field, you will want to make sure that everything is set up properly so you can begin working without any problems arising.

australian business number

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For example, to make sure that you are complying with the latest Australian legislation, you may need to consider registering an ABN, or Australian business number.

As a caveat, this information is intended as a general guide only. For more specific information on the legal requirements of working as a freelancer in Australia, contact the Australian Tax Office.

So now without any further ado, Let’s look at the specific things that you need to do in order to work as a freelancer in Australia.

Pursue a Freelancing Skill

There are many skills and services that can earn you a lucrative living as a freelancer in Australia. Leveraging the power of technology, you can do many tasks as a freelancer that would have been impossible years ago. Things like copywriting, graphic design, and even accounting are now jobs that are commonly done by freelancers throughout the country.

Find a skill that interests you and that you will be motivated to do each day as a freelancer outside of the structure of a traditional office environment.

Requesting an ABN

One of the first steps you need to take as a prospective freelancer in Australia is securing an ABN. This is done by contacting the Australian Business Register.

Having an Australian Business Number (ABN) will allow you to be easily identified as a business with the government authorities. It will also come in handy when tax season comes around.

Set Up Your Office

As a freelancer, your office can usually be located anywhere you might like. Many freelancers can work from the comfort of their homes. In these cases, you may even be able to claim some of your household expenses when you are paying taxes.

However, others will prefer the camaraderie of working in a coworking space. These dynamic and professional working environments are increasingly popular for freelancers and flexible workers in many of Australia’s major cities. If you prefer to add some structure and to have a physical place to go each day to get your best work done, then consider this option.

Find Clients

These days, it can be easier than ever to find clients who want to pay you for your skills and services. With online platforms dedicated to matching clients with freelancers in a variety of fields, a little effort is all it can take to find your first customers.

You can also use a professional website to advertise your services and attract clients to your freelancing business. If you go this route, make sure that you are taking the appropriate measures to know that the client you are working for is actually legitimate and will be able to pay you for your time.

Especially if you are introduced solely through a digital platform, it is beneficial to have a freelancing contract that can be easily found online to ensure that you will be paid within a reasonable timeframe.

Get Down to Business

After you have completed the steps outlined here and found your first client, the only thing left to do is get down to work.

If you are just starting out as a freelancer, there is always more to learn. Continue to read more about improving your productivity as a freelancer and learn to make the most of your time.

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