AusInvoice
ABN Validation • Optional GST • Free PDF

Sole trader invoice template for Australia

Create correct, ATO-compliant invoices as a sole trader. Whether you are GST-registered or not, AusInvoice generates the right invoice format with your ABN and all required fields.

Free for first 3 invoices • No signup required

What goes on a sole trader invoice?

As a sole trader, your invoicing requirements depend on two things: whether you are registered for GST, and the value of the invoice. Get these right and you will avoid issues with the ATO and ensure your clients can claim their own tax deductions properly.

The most common mistake sole traders make is issuing a document titled “Tax Invoice” when they are not registered for GST. This is incorrect — a tax invoice is only used when GST is charged. If you are not GST-registered, your invoice is simply called an “invoice”.

AusInvoice handles this automatically. When you toggle GST off, the document title changes from “Tax Invoice” to “Invoice” and no GST line items appear. When you toggle GST on, the full tax invoice format is applied.

Important: $75,000 GST threshold

If your annual turnover is under $75,000, you are not required to register for GST. Once you reach or expect to reach this threshold in any 12-month period, you must register within 21 days. Learn more about the GST threshold →

Required fields — at a glance

All sole trader invoices

  • Your full name or trading name
  • Your ABN
  • Invoice date
  • Description of goods or services supplied
  • Total amount payable (AUD)
  • Payment details (BSB/account or PayID)

Tax invoices (GST-registered, $82.50+)

  • The words "Tax Invoice" in a prominent position
  • All fields above, PLUS:
  • Buyer's name or ABN
  • GST amount for each taxable item
  • Indication of which items include GST

GST for sole traders — the key rules

GST not required

Under $75,000/year

  • ·You do NOT have to register for GST
  • ·Your invoice is simply called "Invoice"
  • ·Do not add GST to your prices
  • ·Do not write "Tax Invoice" on the document
  • ·Optional: register voluntarily if it suits your business
GST required

$75,000+ per year

  • ·You MUST register for GST within 21 days
  • ·Your invoice becomes a "Tax Invoice"
  • ·Add 10% GST to your prices
  • ·Show the GST amount separately
  • ·File BAS (Business Activity Statements)
Optional below threshold

Voluntary GST registration

  • ·You can register for GST before $75,000
  • ·Useful if your clients are GST-registered businesses (they can claim GST credits)
  • ·Means collecting and remitting 10% to ATO
  • ·Adds administrative overhead
  • ·Discuss with your accountant

Read the full guide: Do sole traders need to charge GST? →

Related resources

ABN Validator

Check if an ABN is valid using the official ATO algorithm.

Tax Invoice Template

Full ATO tax invoice requirements and template.

Invoice Without GST

Create a correct invoice when not GST-registered.

What is an ABN?

ABN explained: what it is, how to get one, and how to validate it.

GST Threshold Guide

When do sole traders need to register for GST?

Free Invoice Generator

Create any type of Australian invoice online for free.

Sole trader invoice FAQ

What must a sole trader include on an invoice?
As a sole trader, your invoice must include: your name or business name, your ABN, the date, a description of the goods or services, and the total amount. If you are GST-registered and the invoice is for $82.50 or more (including GST), you must also include the words "Tax Invoice", the GST amount for each item, and the buyer's identity.
Do sole traders need to include GST on invoices?
Only if you are registered for GST. GST registration is mandatory once your annual turnover reaches or is expected to reach $75,000. Below that threshold, you can choose to register voluntarily, but you are not obligated to. If you are not GST-registered, do not include GST and do not title your invoice "Tax Invoice".
Is a sole trader invoice the same as a tax invoice?
Not necessarily. A "tax invoice" is a specific document required when GST is charged. If you are GST-registered and charging GST, you issue a tax invoice. If you are not GST-registered, you issue a standard invoice (not a tax invoice). AusInvoice handles both automatically based on your GST toggle.
Can I invoice without an ABN as a sole trader?
Technically, you can invoice without an ABN, but it is not recommended. If you do not quote your ABN, the payer is legally required to withhold 47% of the payment and send it to the ATO. Getting your ABN before you invoice anyone is strongly advised. You can apply for one free at abr.business.gov.au.
What payment terms should a sole trader use?
Common payment terms for sole traders are 7 days (Net 7) or 14 days (Net 14). Shorter terms generally result in faster payment. You should always specify the exact due date on the invoice rather than just "Net 14" to avoid ambiguity. AusInvoice lets you set your payment terms and due date directly.

Ready to invoice as a sole trader?

Create your first sole trader invoice for free. No signup needed.