How To: Set up your ABN & Insurance

Setting up your ABN and insurance is one of the first big moves you’ll make when stepping into the world of subcontracting 💥. Luckily, it’s not as scary or complicated as it sounds — most tradies can knock this out in 30–45 minutes if you follow the right steps.

Here’s your no-fluff, Intrade-style guide to get it done right.

Why You Need an ABN

An Australian Business Number (ABN) is what officially makes you a business in the eyes of the ATO (Australian Tax Office). Without it, you’re just an employee. With it, you can issue invoices, claim tax deductions, and work as a true independent contractor or sole trader.

✅ Pro tip: Even though you’re working under an ABN, make sure you understand your tax and super obligations. We’ll cover that below.

ABN = No Super (What Most People Don’t Know)

Here’s the bit that catches a lot of new subbies off guard 👀:

✅ If you’re a genuine independent contractor working under your own ABN, the main contractor usually doesn’t have to pay your super.

BUT!
👉 There’s a big exception under Australian law — under the Superannuation Guarantee (SG) rules, a contractor may still be entitled to super if:

• You’re paid mainly for your labour (not supplying materials, tools, or running a full-service contract).

• You work personally (not through a company or trust).

• You don’t hire staff or subcontract out the work.
  

🔥 Example:
If you show up, provide just your hands and skills, and invoice as a sole trader, the ATO might still say the main contractor has to pay your super — even if you have an ABN.

💼 But if you:

• Provide labour + materials

• Use your own company (like a Pty Ltd)

• Bring subcontractors or staff
  …then super is usually your own responsibility.
  
  

👉 Big takeaway: Having an ABN doesn’t automatically cancel super obligations — it depends on the nature of your work.

If you’re unsure, check out the 🔗ATO’s contractor super checker or talk to your accountant or contractor.

How to Apply for Your ABN

✅ Go to the official Government site: 🔗Apply for an ABN

✅ What you’ll need:

• Your personal details (name, DOB, address, TFN)

• Business details (trading name, business address, what services you provide)

• An email and phone number for your business

⚠ Watch out for:

• Scam sites — always apply through the official government website (it’s free).

• Making sure you select the right business structure — most tradies start as sole traders.

✅ Processing time: Often instant or within a few days.

Getting the Right Insurance

Once your ABN is set up, it’s time to protect yourself and your business with the right insurance 🛡.

For most tradies, this will include:

• Public liability insurance (covers third-party injury or damage)

• Tool or equipment cover

• Income protection (optional but smart)
  

✅ Where to get cover:
You can go through:

• A specialist insurance broker

• Your industry association

• A tradie-specific comparison engine like BizCover (popular with over 60,000 tradies)

👉 Visit: 🔗BizCover here to get online quotes

✅ What to compare:

• Coverage limits

• Exclusions (what’s NOT covered)

• Premiums and excess

• Whether the insurer understands the specific risks in your trade
  
  

Big Takeaways 💥

✅ Setting up an ABN is straightforward — use the official Government site and avoid scammy paid services.
✅ Know your super obligations — just because you have an ABN doesn’t automatically mean the contractor is off the hook.
✅ Get insured early — one bad accident without cover can wipe out your cash flow or bankrupt your small business.
✅ Use your ABN wisely — track your income, keep good records, and get help from a trusted accountant to stay on top of tax.

Final Word

Taking the leap into subcontracting is a big move — and setting up your ABN and insurance the right way lays the foundation for success.

At Intrade, we’re here to back you with free resources, expert advice, and real-world tips so you can crush it in the trade game 💪. If you’re ever unsure, reach out to the Intrade crew — we’ve got your back.

👉 Want help connecting with a trusted accountant or insurance partner? Shoot us a message, and we’ll point you in the right direction!