05/06/2026
ASIC Shuts Down Controversial Business Name Renewal Operator – What Business Owners Need to Know
Many Australian business owners have received letters that look like official ASIC renewal notices, often requesting payments of $99, $171 or more to renew a business name.
ASIC has now cancelled the registered agent status of Registration Pty Ltd and Biz Australia Pty Ltd following concerns about their conduct. ASIC had previously warned that unsolicited renewal notices from third-party providers can be misleading and may cause business owners to believe they are dealing directly with ASIC.
What does this mean for you?
• If you receive a business name renewal notice, don’t assume it is from ASIC.
• You do not have to use a third-party provider to renew your business name.
• Business name renewals can be completed directly through ASIC or through your existing accountant or registered agent.
• Be cautious of letters that:
* Look like invoices
* Offer “early payment discounts”
* Create urgency to pay
* Charge fees significantly higher than the ASIC renewal fee
* Use publicly available ASIC information to appear official.
What should you do if you receive one of these notices?
Before making any payment:
1. Contact your accountant.
2. Check your renewal date directly with ASIC.
3. Verify whether the notice is from ASIC or a third-party provider.
At Fynex Accountants, we regularly help clients identify genuine ASIC correspondence and avoid unnecessary fees.
If you’ve received a renewal notice and are unsure whether it’s legitimate, send us a copy before paying and we’ll check it for you.
General information only. This post is not legal advice.
