How to Register for GST?

Registering for GST is a legal requirement in Australia if your business expects to make annual sales of AUD 75,000 or more. Before beginning the registration process, you must obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN). Once you have an ABN, follow these simple step-by-step instructions for GST registration through the ATO Business Portal.

Registering for GST via ATO Busniess Portal

The ATO portal is an online platform that enables you to view or update information related to your business with the taxation office. Through this portal, you can register for GST, request a refund, transfer funds between ATO accounts, download files, and more.

Step 1: Log in to the ATO Portal

Login to the portal using this link https://bp.ato.gov.au

Screenshot of a webpage showing the welcome message for the Australian Business Portal. The message includes the Australian government logo and invites users to login with their MyGovID.

After landing on the login page, click on ‘myGovID.’ This will take you to the following page where you should follow these instructions:

  • Download the myGovID app
  • Verify your identity
  • Return to the login page

Once you have completed the process, enter your email in the designated box and click on the ‘Login’ button. A four-digit code will appear. Open the myGovID app on your mobile phone, enter the four-digit code, and accept. You will then be automatically logged in to the business portal.

MyGov Australia login page. Screenshot showing login options: MyGovID app and MyGovID email login.

Step 2: Click on the Business Registration Details Menu

Now, on the left side of the dashboard in the business portal, navigate to the business registration details menu and click on it.

Australian Government Business Portal login options. Businesses can access government services like taxation, registrations, and more.

This will open a menu. Go to the bottom and look for ‘registration’. Select it and click on ‘Next’.

image encircle an option for GST registration selection

Step 3: Click on ‘Activity Stmnt 1’ and ADD Tax type

There will be an option called ‘Activity Statement 1’. This is where you can register for GST. Select it and click on ‘Add Tax Summary’.

image for Activity Stmnt 1 selection during GST registeration process

A blank screen will appear because you are not GST registered. To register for GST, click on the ‘ADD Tax Type’ button.

image showing button for add tax type in GST registration process

Step 4: Select ‘Good and Services Tax’ and click next

A window containing the GST and IT withholding options will appear. Click on either of the two according to your requirement. In our case, we will select Goods and Services Tax and click the next button.

image of ATO business portal showing option for Goods and Services Tax

Step 5: Submit

They will ask you a series of questions. Carefully select them according to your criteria, review them, and click ‘Next’.

image of ATO business portal having different questions for GST registration of a business

It will take you to the sign page to confirm those details. Hit the submit button, and that’s it, your registration is now complete. Wait for 24 hours and search on ABN Lookup to see your registration

image of Sign digital certificate during GST registration process

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, you can register for GST for free; it costs nothing. However, some companies charge a small fee following the same method as discussed in this guide. You can register for GST by yourself using our guide.

If your business generates a GST turnover of less than $75,000, then it’s not necessary to register for GST. However, you may voluntarily register for GST.

You can register yourself for GST for free via the ATO Business Portal using our guide, and it costs nothing.

If a business is not GST registered, they cannot charge GST on their sales unless they are registered for GST.

It takes up to 24 hours after submission of your details on the ATO Business Portal. You can check the status of your registration on ABN Lookup website.

You can check the company on the ABN Lookup website or by calling the Australian Taxation Office at 132866.