Step 1: Get an ABN

Visual Step Card

🧩 This shows each step visually: Go to abr.gov.au → Select non-profit → Fill in your details → Save your number.

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🧭 What is an ABN?

Your ABN (Australian Business NumberA unique 11-digit number that identifies your group to the government. It doesn’t mean you're a business. It's just a registration ID.) helps you register, report, and receive funding as a charity or community group.

It’s free to apply and takes about 15 minutes online. You’ll answer some basic questions about your group like your name, what you do, and who the contact person is.

Even though it has “business” in the name, you do not need to be a business to get one. In fact, most charities and community projects must have an ABN to open a bank account, apply for grants, and access government services.

If you’ve never done this before, don't worry — we guide you every step of the way.

🔠 Get an ABN – Easy Read Version

Steps to Apply

1. Go to abr.gov.auThis direct link opens the ABN application screen — skipping all the confusing menu options.
2. Select: You are applying for a non-profitA group or organisation that reinvests any income into its cause or community — not into private pockets. or organisation
3. Answer questions about your purpose and structureThis refers to the legal setup of your group — for example, unincorporated association, incorporated An incorporated group is officially registered and recognised as a legal entity. This means the group—not individuals—can enter contracts, hold property, and be responsible for obligations. association, or charitable trust.
4. Submit your detailsJust means filling in the form and hitting the final button. It doesn’t have to be perfect. You can update things later. and save your reference numberA number the ABR gives you after submission. It’s okay if you forget it — you can recover it later.

📝 Open 'Write Your Group’s Purpose' Worksheet

Red Flags to Avoid

• 🚫 Don’t pay a third-party website — ABNs are free
• ⚠️ If you’ve had bad experiences with government systems before, it’s okay to pause. Ask an Advocate Some people feel unsafe accessing systems that have hurt their families. This toolkit is built to help you try again safely.

Mini Glossary

• Non-profit: A group that uses its money to support a cause, not private income.
• Structure: How your group is set up — like incorporated, unincorporated, or trust.
• Incorporated: A legally registered organisation that is separate from the people who run it.
• Reference number: A number you get when submitting your ABN application — keep it safe!

Download Easy Read Glossary Download Easy Read Glossary