ABN & GST on Invoices (Australia)
This article is general information only, not tax or legal advice. Rules depend on your registration status and transaction type. Always confirm requirements with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or a qualified accountant.
Why your ABN appears on invoices
Most Australian businesses put their Australian Business Number (ABN) on quotes and invoices so the client can see who they are paying. You will get asked for it on bigger commercial jobs.
GST-registered vs not registered
If you are registered for GST, you will usually issue tax invoices for taxable sales and show GST the way the ATO expects (totals clear, GST visible). If you are not registered, you must not charge GST as if it were GST. Some people write “GST not applicable” or leave GST off; your accountant can tell you what fits your situation.
Practical checklist (before you send)
- Your legal or trading name and contact details
- Your ABN
- Invoice date and a unique invoice number
- Client details
- Description of goods or services, quantities, and prices
- Whether amounts are GST-inclusive or GST-exclusive (when GST applies)
- Total amount payable and payment instructions (see payment methods)
- Clear due date or payment terms
Tradies and small operators
If you are on the tools more than in the office, reusable templates and saved customer details save mistakes. Our invoicing tips for tradies covers job-site detail, photos, and getting paid faster.
Using BillBench™ for business details
BillBench™ stores your business details once, lets you flip between quote, invoice, and receipt, and spit out a PDF. You choose the tax wording; we just give you the fields. Run the wording past your accountant if you are unsure. Try BillBench™.