Picking the right Google Business Categories in Australia is one of those tasks that sounds small but can have a big impact. These choices affect where and how your business appears when someone nearby searches for what you offer. And when that searcher is ready to buy, showing up in the right spot at the right time matters.

If we are already investing in AEO services in Australia, the structure of our Google Business Profile becomes even more important. It guides both Google and our future customers to what we actually do. With more search activity picking up during the warmer spring months, now is the perfect time to make sure we are listed under the right categories before the summer rush kicks in.

What Are Google Business Categories and Why Do They Matter?

Google Business Categories act like a signpost, helping Google understand what we sell or do. Each business can pick one primary category and several secondary ones. The primary category tells Google what we are best known for. The secondary categories support that picture without causing confusion.

These categories help determine how and where we show up in Google Maps and in local search results. They even influence what types of Google Posts or questions show up on our profile. If we have noticed a drop in traffic or engagement, an outdated or inaccurate category might be part of the problem.

• Primary categories carry the most weight for rankings
• Secondary categories boost reach for related offerings
• Both play a role in spoken search and map-based results

If our competitors are showing up above us when our service is searched, categories are often one of the first places to check.

How to Choose the Right Primary Category for Your Business

There is always a temptation to pick something broad, thinking it will reach more people. But Google rewards accuracy. The more specific we are, the better chance we have of showing up when that kind of business is actually needed.

The best way to pick a category is to match our core offering first. For example, if we are a digital marketing agency, we should not start with “business service” or “consultant” just to cast a wider net. Instead, “marketing agency” or “internet marketing service” gives both Google and our next client a clearer signal.

We find it helpful to check what terms people are searching for, whether through keyword tools or simple competitor checks. Google’s own category suggestions can be a useful starting point.

• Match category to top revenue-driving service
• Stay away from vague or overly broad categories
• Use tools to spot category trends and gaps

How Can Supporting Categories Improve Your Visibility?

Supporting categories work quietly in the background, helping us appear in extra searches without confusing Google. After we set our primary category, we can add a few more that reflect services we offer, as long as they are clearly connected.

For those of us offering AEO services in Australia, that might include categories like “search engine optimisation service” or “digital marketing consultant.” These will not replace our main category, but they help expand how often we appear to people searching for nearby services like ours.

The mistake often comes when people try to use every category they think might apply, even if loosely. That can water down the profile and make Google unsure who we are meant to help.

• Add two to three clear secondary categories for support
• Choose ones that match active services, not aspirational ones
• Avoid trying to be found for everything, focus wins

What Are the Common Mistakes Aussie Businesses Make?

We have seen plenty of strong Aussie businesses disappear from search results for one simple reason, bad categories. It is a small detail that is easy to overlook but can cost us leads if we get it wrong.

The most common errors are:

• Picking too many categories, hoping something sticks
• Leaving old or irrelevant ones in place as our services grow
• Using trendy buzzwords that do not align with what real searchers type

Another mistake we come across is wishing the perfect category existed. When it does not, some people choose completely unrelated terms or make up a workaround in their listing description. That strategy rarely works long term.

The safer move is to pick the next-best established category and then use other parts of the Google Business Profile (like the business description) to provide clarity.

Are Google Business Categories Considered a Marketing Expense?

Yes, they are. The time and effort spent keeping our Google Business Profile accurate falls under digital marketing activity. That includes checking and updating our categories. According to the ATO, advertising costs used to promote our business are usually tax-deductible.

That means if we are already investing in digital support or AEO services in Australia, that work could be reducing our tax while increasing our leads. It is a visibility benefit and a smart financial move, especially as the financial year planning season nears.

• Google Profile optimisation is a deductible business marketing cost
• ATO considers ads and digital promotions tax-deductible
• Review and update work done each spring could boost reach and reduce tax

FAQ: Simple Answers to Common Questions

Q: Can I choose more than one Google Business Category?

A: Yes, but you can only have one primary. The others must be relevant and support your real services.

Q: How often should I update my Google Business Categories?

A: At least once a year. Spring and EOFY reviews are good times to check for updates.

Q: Will wrong categories hurt my search performance?

A: They will not penalise your profile, but they can stop you from showing up in the right places.

Q: Is category selection a one-time task?

A: No. Our services change, and so do search habits. Adjusting categories keeps us visible and relevant.

Keep Your Google Profile Working for You

More than ever, businesses in Australia require accurate, up-to-date information online. As a Brisbane-based agency, we bring hands-on support and extensive experience in digital strategy and Google Business Profile optimisation. Our team frequently works with businesses to refine Google Business Categories and ensure profiles are both SEO-friendly and fully compliant with latest best practices.

By combining our expertise in SEO and local digital strategies, we help clients stand out in their local market and reach more of the customers looking for exactly what they provide.

Reviewing your Google Business Profile and already investing in AEO services in Australia? Now is the perfect time to streamline how your business is showing up online. Optimising your categories boosts visibility and, when handled correctly, can count as a tax-deductible marketing expense. At Your Digital Solution, we help businesses align their digital presence to attract better leads and support smarter end-of-year planning. Let us help you get your profile and strategy sorted before the summer rush hits.