To establish a company in Australia, investors may choose to either incorporate a company themselves or to purchase a shelf company', being a company that is not traded. In addition, a company would need to register a proposed trading name with the relevant State Government Office. If you conduct your business alone, without a partner, then you are classified as a sole trader. This definition applies whether or not you have employees working for you. The sole trader structure is rarely used by foreigners investing in Australia.
Sole traders continue to pay tax at the personal rate.
Partnerships A partnership enables a group of between two and twenty people to run business. Partnership law is covered by the relevant State or Territory Partnership Act. In Australia a partnership is not a legal entity and therefore partners are collectively and individually liable for any debts. Joint Ventures A joint venture could be appropriate for a specific venture such as mining or a specific business activity. An incorporated joint venture company can be created which limits the liability placed on the participants.