An LEI is different from an Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN). An ABN identifies a business in Australia, while an ACN identifies a registered company. A Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) provides a globally recognised identifier for eligible legal entities participating in financial activities.
Two different identifiers
Your ASIC (ABN/ACN) registration number proves the entity exists in Australia. The LEI is the globally-recognised ISO 17442 identifier used in financial reporting and counterparty checks worldwide.
Why you need both
The registration number is for domestic legal existence; the LEI is for financial-market identity. They complement, not replace, each other.
How they connect
The LEI's Level 1 reference data records the ASIC (ABN/ACN) registration number, linking your global identity to your local registration.
Apply, transfer, or renew
Apply for your LEI
Transfer (free)
Renew
Get your LEI
Fast-Track LEI issuance in 2 to 4 UK working hours is available subject to data completeness, applicant authority, and successful compliance validation. Transfers from another GLEIF-accredited LOU are free.
Frequently asked questions
No. An ABN, ACN and LEI are separate identifiers. The ABN identifies a business or organisation in Australia, the ACN identifies a registered Australian company, and the LEI identifies an eligible legal entity globally for financial-market use.
Yes, for entities active in financial transactions or reporting.
Yes — it is recorded in the LEI's Level 1 data.
Not where an LEI is specifically required. An ABN or ACN cannot replace the Legal Entity Identifier in a reporting or transaction workflow that requires an LEI.