The ABN system was originally introduced as a simple way to provide businesses with unique identifier when dealing with the government. It has since become a de facto licence to do business despite no substantial changes in the application process in the intervening two decades. The government is now seeking to reform the ABN system in response to the findings of the Black Economy Taskforce, and has started the consultation process on proposed measures including changes to ABN entitlement, conditions for ABN holders, and implementing a renewal process and fee.
