Do I add GST for a overseas entity that is working on a project in Australia?

(Initiate)Initiate

27 Apr 2026

I run an engineering consulting business. We have a contract to provide design advice to an engineering company in New Zealand that is conducting design work for a project in Australia. The project is expansion of an existing industrial manufacturing facility. The New Zealand company also has an office in Australia but the contract is with the NZ entity and all work will be conducted by that office. Invoices for our services will be sent to the New Zealand office. Normally we would not add GST when we conduct work for overseas entities however in this case as the project is in Australia and the company also has an office in Australia I’m unsure whether I need to add GST to our invoices.

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JayATO

(Community Support)Community Support

28 Apr 2026

Hi @BrianC67,

You need to charge GST on your invoices to the New Zealand entity. When you provide services in Australia GST applies, even if the invoice is going to a company overseas.

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BrianC67

(Initiate)Initiate

30 Apr 2026

Thanks. I am still a bit confused as the service is being exported to NZ. All our work is contributing to a design that is wholly being produced by a NZ company (our client) - so how are we “providing the service in Australia”. Are we expected to be aware of the end purpose of our client’s work - that being an Australian project.

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JayATO

(Community Support)Community Support

1 May 2026

Hi @BrianC67

My apologies! I have reread your original question and you are absolutely right. GST would not apply as the services are being exported to NZ. What happens after that is a new and separate transaction.

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BrianC67

(Initiate)Initiate

7 May 2026

@JayATO

Thanks for responding. Much appreciated.

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