How to Register for GST: Complete Guide for Australian Businesses 2025

TL;DR

GST registration is mandatory for Australian businesses with an annual turnover of $75,000 or more. Register within 21 days of reaching this threshold through the Business Registration Service, myGov, or by phone (13 28 66). Non-profit organisations have a higher threshold of $150,000, while taxi/rideshare services must register regardless of turnover.

Do You Need to Register for GST?

Let me share a recent situation I encountered with a creative client in Penrith. They were selling digital artwork online and weren't sure if they needed to register for GST. After reviewing their monthly sales, which were approaching $6,000, it became clear they needed to register soon. This is a common scenario many Australian businesses face.

You need to register for GST if:

• Your business turnover is $75,000 or more annually
• Your non-profit organisation has a turnover of $150,000 or more
• You provide taxi or rideshare services (regardless of turnover)
• You want to claim fuel tax credits

How to Calculate Your GST Turnover

Your GST turnover is calculated by:

1. Taking your total business income
2. Subtracting:

• GST included in sales
• Sales to business associates
• Non-taxable sales
• Input-taxed sales
• Sales not connected with Australia

For example:

Total Monthly Income: $7,000
Less: Non-taxable sales: $500
Less: Input-taxed sales: $300
Current GST Turnover: $6,200

Annual Projection: $6,200 × 12 = $74,400

Step-by-Step GST Registration Process

1. Prepare Required Information

Before starting, gather:

• Australian Business Number (ABN)
• Business contact details
• Bank account information
• Business activity details
• Expected turnover figures

2. Choose Your Registration Method

There are three main ways to register:

1. Online through Business Registration Service (Recommended)

• Visit business.gov.au
• Select 'Register for GST'
• Follow the prompts

1. Through myGov

• Link your myGov account to ATO
• Select 'Business Services'
• Choose 'Register GST'

1. By Phone

• Call 13 28 66
• Have all documentation ready

3. Select Your GST Accounting Method

Choose between:

• Cash basis (recommended for small businesses)
• Accrual basis (suitable for larger operations)

4. Determine Your Reporting Frequency

Based on your turnover:

GST Registration Timeframes and Deadlines

Once you reach the threshold:

• Register within 21 days
• Begin charging GST from your registration date
• Start maintaining proper GST records

Post-Registration Obligations

After registration:

1. Include GST in your prices
2. Issue tax invoices
3. Lodge Business Activity Statements (BAS)
4. Keep records for five years
5. Pay collected GST to ATO

Common GST Registration Mistakes to Avoid

1. Waiting too long to register
2. Incorrectly calculating turnover
3. Choosing the wrong accounting method
4. Missing registration deadlines
5. Not keeping adequate records

Taking Your Next Steps

If you're a business owner in Western Sydney wondering about GST registration, it's crucial to act promptly. Monitor your monthly turnover, understand your obligations, and seek professional advice if needed. Our team at Amplify 11 in Penrith specialises in helping creative businesses navigate these requirements.