Tips & Traps: Company Names, Business Documents and Advertising
Company Names - As a general rule it is easiest to have the name that you trade under as your company name. If you don't and you want to "protect” the name you will need to register your business or trading name in every state and territory where you propose to do business with clients.
Business Documents - Letterhead and invoices need to show the trading name, the full company name and ABN. It is also good practice to include the AFS licence number (even though this is not required by law). This makes it clear that you are an AFS licensee and avoids any risk that you might mislead or deceive the client. Business cards do not need to show the full company name and ABN - but many people do so (along with the AFSL).
Advertising - As signage and advertising don't need to be too formal, it is not necessary to include your full company name. Remember though, that your framed company certificate and any business name registrations must be displayed in your registered office.