Getting your sole trader setup right from the start makes everything that follows a lot easier. There’s a list of practical things to sort out before you can properly open for business, from registering your ABN to deciding how customers will actually reach you, and getting the basics right early saves a lot of hassle later. Here’s a straightforward checklist covering what most sole traders need to think about in the first few weeks.
Table of contents
Register your ABN and business name
Before you can invoice a client or open a business bank account, you’ll need an Australian Business Number (ABN). It’s free to apply for through the Australian Business Register, and most applications are processed within a few days.
If you’re trading under a name other than your own, you’ll also need to register that business name with ASIC, which is a separate step from getting your ABN.
Sort out your business banking
You’re not legally required to have a separate business bank account as a sole trader, but it makes life a lot easier come tax time. Keeping business income and expenses apart from your personal spending means less time untangling receipts later, and a clearer picture of how your business is actually performing.
Get a business phone number
Using your personal mobile for business calls gets messy fast. Your business contacts end up mixed in with friends and family, you can never really switch off, and answering “hello?” instead of your business name doesn’t leave the best impression on a new client.
A dedicated business number, whether that’s a local number, a 1300, or a free-call 1800, keeps things separate from day one and can still forward straight through to your mobile.
Choose how calls will be handled
As a sole trader, you’re often on the job, in a meeting, or simply unavailable, and every missed call is a missed opportunity when there’s no one else in the business to catch it. Some sole traders let it go to voicemail and hope for the best.
Others set up a proper answering service from day one, so they’re never choosing between doing the work in front of them and being available for the next enquiry.
Consider your insurance and compliance needs
Depending on your industry, you may need public liability insurance, professional indemnity cover, or specific licences before you can legally operate. Requirements vary a lot from trade to trade and state to state, so it’s worth checking with your industry body or a professional adviser to make sure you’ve got what you actually need, rather than guessing.
Set up a way to manage bookings and appointments
Once you’re taking on clients, keeping track of who’s booked in and when becomes its own job. A messy mix of texts, calls, and mental notes works for a week or two, but it falls apart fast once you’re busier.
Many sole traders start with a simple diary system from day one, so bookings, reschedules, and reminders are all handled in one place, rather than chasing details across half a dozen conversations.
Getting the basics right early
None of this needs to happen overnight, but sorting out the practical foundations early means you can focus on the work itself instead of scrambling to fix gaps once you’re already busy. A registered ABN, separate banking, a dedicated business number, and a plan for the calls you can’t take, that’s most of the groundwork done.
How to get started
Getting up and running with OfficeHQ is straightforward – with instant activation of our 7-day free trial and easy setup, most businesses are live within just a few minutes!
- Start your free trial – test the service, without any obligation
- Brief your receptionists – add business details and instructions via our online portal, including how you’d like calls answered, what information to capture and how to handle different call types
- Set up call forwarding
- After the trial, choose a plan based on your needs and call volume – talk to our team if you’re not sure which plan is right for you
Sole trader answering FAQs
Do I need a business phone number as a sole trader?
You do not need a separate business number, but it can make it easier to keep work and personal calls separate. You can choose a local, 1300 or 1800 number and have calls forwarded directly to your mobile. OfficeHQ can also arrange a business number alongside your call answering service.
What should I do if I cannot answer every call as a sole trader?
If you are regularly unable to answer calls while working or meeting with clients, a virtual receptionist can help. Calls are answered in your business name, messages are taken and the details are sent directly to you, allowing you to respond when you are available.
Is an answering service worth it for a new sole trader?
It can be particularly useful when you are managing every part of the business yourself. OfficeHQ receptionists can answer in your business name, take messages or manage bookings, without the expense of employing an additional staff member.
Can a virtual receptionist help me manage bookings as a sole trader?
Yes. With a plan that includes appointment scheduling, your receptionist can book, reschedule and manage appointments using your preferred calendar or booking system. This can make it easier to keep your diary organised as enquiry volumes increase.
How much does a call answering service cost for a sole trader?
The cost will depend on the number of calls you receive and the level of support you need. OfficeHQ offers a range of month to month plans, allowing you to start with a smaller package and move up or down as your call volume changes.
Can I try an answering service before committing as a sole trader?
Yes. OfficeHQ offers a free 7 day trial with no obligation. This gives you an opportunity to experience how your calls are answered and decide whether the service suits your business before selecting a plan.
