Engage Us For Expert Advice On Business Structures

Engage Us For Expert Advice On Business Structures

Overview

The legal structure for your business or investment impacts costs, taxation, and your asset protection. The most suitable structure for you will depend on a number of factors. Four common business structures used by Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Australia are: Sole Traders, Partnerships, Companies, and Trusts.

Our experienced team offers advice about different business entities, can help establish trusts and companies, and provide associated advice. We work with you through every stage of your business to protect your interests now and as your business grows.

Types of business structures

Choosing a structure is more than setting up a business; it’s about safeguarding your interests, anticipating potential challenges, and preparing for growth. Different business structures are suited to different circumstances.

Selecting a suitable structure for your business is key to protecting your interest in your current situation and laying the right foundations for future growth. The following is a brief overview of different business structures:

Sole Trader
A Sole Trader structure is when an individual operates the business under their name. They have full ownership and control over the business, and any business debts directly affect their personal financial stability. This setup has no legal distinction between the individual and the business.

Partnership
A Partnership involves a group of two or more individuals who jointly run a business and distribute its income according to a partnership agreement. The partners collectively own the business and may all be liable for the partnership’s debts.

Company
A Company is a separate legal entity owned by shareholders and managed by directors. While a company can offer some protection for personal assets, there are circumstances where directors can be held personally liable. Given a company’s ability to issue shares to various shareholders, it’s an ideal structure for businesses with multiple owners or those seeking investment.

Trust
A Trust is a unique legal construct where a trustee owns the trust assets for the beneficiaries’ benefit. The trustee could be an individual or a company, and there might be multiple trustees.

Beneficiaries’ interests can either be fixed – similar to shares in a company – or they might not have any defined entitlement at all. The costs, asset protection, and tax outcomes depend on the type of trust and the terms of the deed that establishes the trust.

It’s not unusual for some businesses to need a combination of these legal structures.

How we can help

Over time, your business may outgrow its original structure. What was suitable during the initial stages may no longer be appropriate. When this occurs, our team is here to guide you through choosing a business structure that suits your needs today and prepares you for the future.

Find out how we can help. Book your complimentary consultation today.