When GST may apply.
You generally need to register for GST when your business reaches the GST turnover threshold, and GST-registered businesses need to manage GST through their records and BAS.
GST Invoice Australia
A simple GST invoice guide for Australian small businesses.
Understand when GST may apply, what a tax invoice should include and how Flowli helps keep invoice records clearer for clients and accountants.
GST invoice check
Clear records
ABNIncludedSupplier details
GSTOptionalWhen registered
PDFReadyFor clients
GST-aware invoicesUse GST settings when your business needs them
ABN detailsKeep supplier and client records clearer
Accountant readyExport invoice and expense records for tax time
GST invoice guide
What is a GST invoice in Australia?
In everyday business language, people often say GST invoice, but the ATO commonly refers to a tax invoice when a GST-registered business issues an invoice for a taxable sale. If a business is registered for GST, the ATO says its invoices should be called tax invoices. If it is not registered for GST, it should issue standard invoices instead.
This page is general information only. For tax advice, speak with a registered tax agent or accountant.
Tax invoice wording.
If your business is registered for GST, your invoices should be called tax invoices. If you are not registered, your invoices should not use the words tax invoice.
Supplier ABN.
A valid tax invoice needs enough information to identify the supplier and the supplier ABN.
Customer details.
For larger sales, a tax invoice may also need enough information to identify the recipient or the recipient ABN.
Item details.
Clear descriptions, quantities, prices and GST information help clients and accountants understand the transaction.
Record keeping.
Keeping invoices, receipts and reports organised makes tax time easier and reduces the chance of missing details.
GST registration
When do you need to register for GST?
The ATO says businesses generally must register for GST when their GST turnover is $75,000 or more. Some businesses, such as taxi, limousine and ride-sourcing services, may have different registration rules. Check the ATO or your accountant for your exact situation.
- Registered for GST? Your taxable-sale invoices should be tax invoices.
- Not registered for GST? Do not charge GST on invoices.
- Unsure about GST? Confirm with your accountant or tax agent.
- Keep invoice records clear even before you reach the GST threshold.
How Flowli helps
Create clearer invoice records with less manual admin.
Flowli helps Australian small businesses keep client details, ABN information, invoice numbers, GST settings, due dates and PDF invoices in one place.
Save business details.
Keep your business name, ABN, address and payment details ready for invoices.
Manage client records.
Store individual and business clients with contact, state, postcode and ABN details when needed.
Download invoice PDFs.
Create clean invoice PDFs you can send to clients and keep for your records.
Track due dates.
See paid, pending and overdue invoices so GST and income records are easier to review.
Record expenses.
Track supplier invoice numbers, supplier ABNs and receipt files alongside your income records.
Export for accountant.
Prepare a simple PDF report with invoice and expense details for the Australian tax period.
GST invoice FAQ
Common questions about GST invoices in Australia.
Do I need to include GST on every invoice in Australia?
GST generally applies when your business is registered for GST and the sale is taxable. If you are not registered for GST, you should not charge GST.
Can a sole trader issue a tax invoice?
Yes. A sole trader registered for GST can issue a tax invoice when making taxable sales.
What happens if I am not registered for GST?
If your business is not registered for GST, your invoices should be standard invoices and should not be called tax invoices.
Does an invoice need an ABN?
Tax invoices need enough information to identify the supplier and the supplier ABN. Other requirements can depend on the sale amount and GST status.
Can Flowli create invoices with GST?
Flowli helps Australian small businesses create clearer invoice records with business details, client details, GST settings and PDF downloads.
Create clearer invoices with Flowli.
Keep clients, invoices, GST settings, expenses and accountant reports in one simple workspace.