What must be on a tax invoice in Australia?

For sales under $1,000

Your tax invoice must show:

1. That it's a tax invoice (the words "Tax Invoice" at the top is the easiest way).
2. Your identity, meaning your business or trading name.
3. Your ABN.
4. The date it was issued.
5. A brief description of what you sold, such as the work done or the parts supplied.
6. The GST amount (if any) payable, or a statement that the total price includes GST.
7. The extent to which each sale is taxable, which matters if some items are GST-free.

For sales of $1,000 or more

Everything above, plus the buyer's identity or ABN, such as the client's name or business name.

If you're not registered for GST

Don't call it a tax invoice and don't add GST. Just issue an invoice with your details, ABN, date, description and price. You must register for GST once your turnover reaches $75,000 a year.

Nice to have (not required, but helps you get paid)

• An invoice number, so you and the client can track it.
• A due date and your payment terms.
• How to pay: bank details, PayID or a pay-now link.

Common mistakes

• Forgetting the words "Tax Invoice".
• Adding GST when you're not registered.
• Leaving the client's name off a job over $1,000.
• Vague descriptions like "work done". Write what you actually did.

How TalkQuote handles it

Every invoice you send from TalkQuote includes your ABN (with automatic ABN lookup), the "Tax Invoice" heading, the date, line-item descriptions and the GST, and adds the client's details automatically. Clients can pay by PayID or card from the link.

Frequently asked questions

More guides

• BAS for sole traders
• How to chase an unpaid invoice