ABN Blog Articles for Working Holiday Makers in Australia
An Australian Business Number (ABN) is an 11-digit identifier used when you operate as a sole trader or independent contractor in Australia. You need an ABN if a business is paying you to invoice them rather than putting you on the payroll. These articles cover registration, when an ABN is the right choice, and how working under an ABN affects your tax, super, and entitlements.
Register for your ABN →All ABN articles (11)
What is an ABN and do you need one on a working holiday visa?
An ABN is required if you are working as a contractor in Australia. Here is how to know if you need one and what happens if you work without one.
Read more →How to register for an ABN in Australia as a backpacker
Registering for an ABN is free and takes around 15 minutes online. Here is exactly how to do it as a working holiday visa holder.
Read more →Farm work and ABNs - what you need to know before you start
Farm work is one of the most common reasons working holiday makers need an ABN. Here is how it works and what to watch out for.
Read more →What is the difference between being an employee and a contractor in Australia?
The distinction between employee and contractor affects your tax, your super, and your workplace rights. Here is how to tell which one you are.
Read more →Can you have both a TFN and an ABN at the same time?
Yes, and many working holiday makers do. Here is how the two numbers work together and when you need both.
Read more →How to cancel your ABN when you leave Australia
If you are leaving Australia and no longer running a business, you should cancel your ABN. Here is how to do it and why it matters.
Read more →GST and ABN - do working holiday makers need to register for GST?
Most working holiday makers with an ABN do not need to register for GST. Here is how to work out whether it applies to you.
Read more →Vehicle expenses and logbooks for working holiday makers with an ABN
If you use a car for work under your ABN, you may be able to claim vehicle expenses as a tax deduction. Here is how the logbook method works and what you need to record.
Read more →What is the small business tax offset and can working holiday makers claim it?
If you earn income under an ABN as a sole trader, you may be entitled to the small business tax offset - a tax reduction of up to $1,000. Here is how it works.
Read more →Sole trader vs company in Australia: what is the difference for working holiday makers?
Most working holiday makers operate as sole traders, but understanding the difference between a sole trader and a company helps you make informed decisions about your business structure.
Read more →What is the difference between a profit and loss business and personal services income in Australia?
The ATO distinguishes between personal services income and genuine business income. For working holiday makers with an ABN, understanding this distinction can affect your tax.
Read more →Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Do working holiday makers need an ABN in Australia?+
You need an ABN if you are working as an independent contractor or sole trader, meaning you invoice for your work rather than being on a payroll. Most working holiday makers in standard employment do not need an ABN.
How much does it cost to get an ABN?+
Registering for an ABN through the Australian Business Register is free. Any service that charges you for the registration itself is marking up a free government process.
What is the difference between a TFN and an ABN?+
A TFN is your personal tax identifier required for all workers. An ABN is required only if you are operating as a contractor or sole trader. Many working holiday makers hold both.
Can you have a TFN and an ABN at the same time?+
Yes. Many working holiday makers hold both simultaneously, using the TFN for employment income and the ABN for contractor work.