Business structures | business.gov.au

Types of business structures

Choose your business structure

Learn more about the different business structures and how to choose the right one for your business.

Sole trader

A sole trader is legally responsible for all aspects of the business. Learn about the key elements of a sole trader and superannuation options.

Company

When you set up a company, you create a legal entity that’s separate from you. Find out the key elements of a company and the tax and legal obligations.

Partnership

Partnerships are made up of 2 or more people who distribute income or losses between themselves. Learn about the key elements of partnerships and the laws in your state or territory.

Trust

Find out the elements of a trust and how to register your business as a trust.

Co-operative

Learn about co-operative structures, how they’re set up and what laws apply.

Indigenous corporation

Find out how to register an Indigenous corporation and where to get support.

Joint venture

An agreement between 2 or more parties for the purpose of completing a specific task or project. Learn more about benefits of a joint venture and what is included in an agreement.

Changing your business structure

Change your business structure

Find out what you need to consider when changing your business structure and common reasons for changing.

Dissolve your business partnership

Learn how to dissolve a business partnership and comply with your legal obligations.

Difference between a sole trader and a company

Learn about the key differences between sole traders and companies.

Tax differences between a sole trader and a company

Understand the key tax differences between sole traders and companies.

Change your sole trader business to a company

Learn how to change your business from a sole trader structure to a company structure.

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