Starting out as a freelancer can feel like navigating a maze of professional expectations, and GST registration often sits right at the centre of those worries. When you're earning below the threshold, your accountant might tell you not to worry, but that nagging voice in your head keeps asking: what will clients think?

This is exactly the kind of practical concern that keeps many freelancers awake at night. You want to appear professional and credible, especially when pitching to larger companies, but you're also trying to manage your finances sensibly.

This question was answered by Nicky Bryson, Principal and Co-founder of Sayers Brand Momentum and experienced brand strategist who regularly hires freelancers, and Andy Wright, Host and CEO of Streamtime, who also has extensive experience working with freelance talent across the creative industry. Both bring real-world hiring experience and understand the practical realities of working with freelancers at different stages of their careers.

The reality from someone who hires freelancers regularly

Nicky's response should put many freelancers' minds at ease. As someone who finds, hires and processes invoices for freelancers regularly, she's never considered GST registration as part of her vetting process.

"I've never ever thought about that, it's never been on my radar as a vetting process, even a question to ask. As long as you're an adult with an ABN, I don't think it matters," Nicky explains.

This perspective is particularly valuable because it comes from someone actively making hiring decisions. The focus is on your skills, reliability and professionalism, not your tax registration status.

When GST registration might actually matter

However, both speakers acknowledge that some larger companies might have different requirements. Andy recalls a specific instance: "I remember having a long time ago a finance director refusing an invoice because it didn't have GST on it, even though the freelancer said you know I don't have to because I'm under the threshold."

This highlights that while most employers won't care, there might be occasional exceptions, particularly in larger organisations with strict procurement processes.

Making the decision that's right for you

The key is weighing up the opportunity cost. As Nicky puts it: "If there's a really lucrative job out there for you with a big company and that's a requirement, just look into the opportunity cost. Is it worth investing in yourself and your future to do that?"

This practical approach makes sense. If you're consistently losing opportunities because of GST registration, it might be worth considering. But if it's just a general worry without specific instances, you're probably overthinking it.

The financial reality of early GST registration

Both speakers emphasise the importance of understanding the financial implications if you do register early. "Don't spend the GST because at tax time they will ask for it back, and that is a big burden on yourself," Nicky warns.

Andy shares a practical tip from his own experience: "I had two bank accounts and as soon as my invoices got paid I wrote the GST into one of the other bank accounts and just kept it there because I didn't want to spend it, but it does mount up."

You're more credible than you think

The overwhelming message here is reassuring: your credibility as a freelancer isn't tied to your GST registration status. What matters is your work quality, professionalism and ability to deliver what you promise.

Most clients and employers understand that freelancers starting out operate below the GST threshold, and it's completely normal. Focus your energy on building your skills, delivering great work and maintaining professional relationships. Those are the things that truly build credibility in the creative industry.

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