Free Template

ABN Invoice Template

Create professional invoices with your Australian Business Number (ABN). Perfect for Australian freelancers and businesses.

Common services billed with this template

Typical use cases for the abn invoice template:

  • ✓ Sole trader contracting and freelance work
  • ✓ Consulting and advisory services
  • ✓ Trade services (plumbing, electrical, carpentry)
  • ✓ Cleaning, gardening and home services
  • ✓ Creative work (design, writing, photo, video)
  • ✓ Online services and digital products

Typical line items

Fields you'll usually include on this invoice:

  • ✓ Your ABN (11 digits) clearly displayed in the header
  • ✓ Detailed description of goods or services
  • ✓ Quantity, rate and line total
  • ✓ GST line (if GST-registered) or "No GST applicable" note
  • ✓ Total amount due in AUD
  • ✓ Payment terms and BSB/account or PayID for transfer

Standard Payment Terms

Net 7, Net 14 or Net 30 days — sole traders often use Net 7 to maintain cash flow.

Invoicing Tips

  • ✓ Always include your ABN — without it the payer is required to withhold 47% under PAYG rules
  • ✓ You don't need to register for GST until your turnover exceeds $75,000/year
  • ✓ If you're not GST-registered, label the document "Invoice" (not "Tax Invoice")
  • ✓ Use unique sequential invoice numbers for record-keeping
  • ✓ Include payment instructions (BSB, account, PayID) directly on the invoice

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ✓ Missing the ABN entirely — leads to 47% PAYG withholding
  • ✓ Calling it a "Tax Invoice" without being GST-registered
  • ✓ Mixing personal and business invoices without separate numbering
  • ✓ Not including payment terms or due date
  • ✓ Forgetting to keep a copy for the 5-year ATO record-keeping rule

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an ABN to invoice in Australia?

You can technically issue an invoice without an ABN, but the payer must withhold 47% of the payment for tax (PAYG withholding). For any ongoing business, get a free ABN from the Australian Business Register.

How do I get an ABN?

Apply free at abr.gov.au. You'll need your TFN and details about your business activity. Most applications are approved instantly.

Do I have to charge GST if I have an ABN?

Only if you're registered for GST — which is mandatory once your business turnover exceeds $75,000/year ($150,000 for non-profits). Below that, you can voluntarily register or invoice without GST.

Can a sole trader use the same ABN for multiple businesses?

Yes — as a sole trader you have one ABN that covers all your business activities. You just need to track income separately for each activity in your tax return.

What if my ABN is cancelled?

A cancelled ABN means you can't legally invoice under it. Reactivate via abr.gov.au or apply for a new one. Invoices issued with a cancelled ABN may trigger PAYG withholding.

Related Invoice Templates

Skip the template and build it live with our invoice maker — free PDF, ABN & GST included.