Do You Need an ABN to Sell at the Markets?

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In this series of posts we’re looking at common questions that arise regarding when it’s appropriate to register for an ABN. If you’re thinking about or currently selling something that you’ve made or sourced at a market, you might be wondering if you need to register for an ABN.

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Do you Need an ABN to Sell at the Markets?

The short answer for that is NO. However it all comes down to the nature and the scale of the operations and whether your intention is to make profit or solely for leisure.

There are two approaches you can take to a business: a casual or a more commercially-oriented approach. The first approach is a good way to make a bit of pocket money and cover the cost of your supplies. With this approach you are not required to have an ABN.

But if you make enough profits to pay the bills, your hobby has turned into a business. This is when you will require an ABN. If you are running a market stall twice a week and that is your main source of income then you will need to register for an ABN. Also, if your business sources to wholesale suppliers, you will need an an ABN as many wholesalers will only supply to a registered business.

If you are still unsure about whether selling at the Markets is a Business or a Hobby please refer to our legal blog on Do You Need an ABN for a Hobby?

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