As an accountant working with various businesses across Australia, I often discuss the importance of choosing the right business structure. The structure you choose for your business can have significant implications for tax, liability, and day-to-day operations. Here’s a breakdown of the different business structures in Australia and how they differ.

1. Sole Trader

  • Definition: A sole trader is an individual running a business. It’s the simplest form of business structure.
  • Taxation: Taxed as part of the individual’s personal income and the individual must pay tax on all income derived from the business.
  • Liability: The sole trader is personally liable for all aspects of the business, including debts.
  • Control: The individual has full control over the business, making it simple to set up and manage.

2. Partnership

  • Definition: A partnership involves two or more people (up to 20) running a business together.
  • Taxation: Does not pay income tax on the income earned. Instead, each partner pays tax on their share of the net partnership income.
  • Liability: Partners are personally responsible for the business’s debts and liabilities. There are different types of partnerships (general, limited, incorporated).
  • Control: Decision-making and control are shared among the partners.

3. Company

  • Definition: A company is a legal entity separate from its owners (shareholders) and is a more complex structure.
  • Taxation: Pays its own tax at the corporate tax rate. Shareholders are taxed on any income they receive from the company.
  • Liability: Shareholders have limited liability, which provides an element of asset protection.
  • Control: Managed by directors and owned by shareholders. Subject to more regulatory requirements.

4. Trust

  • Definition: A trust is an entity where a trustee holds property or income for the benefit of others (beneficiaries).
  • Taxation: The trust itself does not pay tax. Instead, beneficiaries of the trust pay tax on income they receive from the trust.
  • Liability: Depends on the type of trust. In a discretionary trust, the trustee may be personally liable for obligations of the trust.
  • Control: The trustee administers the trust in accordance with the trust’s deed.

5. Differences in Structures

  • Liability: Varies significantly – from full personal liability (sole trader, partnership) to limited liability (company).
  • Tax Implications: Each structure has different tax implications, from personal income tax rates to corporate tax rates.
  • Cost and Complexity: Ranges from simple and low-cost (sole trader) to more complex and costly (company, trust).
  • Reporting Requirements: Varies from minimal (sole trader, partnership) to extensive (company).

6. Choosing the Right Structure

  • Business Needs: The choice depends on your business needs, level of control, willingness to take on personal liability, tax implications, and future goals.
  • Professional Advice: It’s advisable to consult with your accountant or legal advisor when choosing your business structure to understand each structure’s implications fully.


Choosing the right business structure is crucial in laying the foundation for your business’s success. Understanding the differences in liability, taxation, control, and compliance requirements is key. Whether you’re starting a new business or thinking about restructuring an existing one, consider each structure’s advantages and disadvantages and seek professional advice to make an informed decision.