Here is our handy list of Australian government services, and Australian government-backed initiatives, to refer to in the process of setting up your small business. Hit the links to find grants and funding information, networking advice and financial tips. As your business grows, make sure you are complying with general rules and specific industry regulations. Simple adjustments may avoid costly or time-consuming mistakes.
GENERAL SMALL BUSINESS LINKS
Ahead for business. Australian Government-backed initiative, including an app and a website, to help small business owners take action on their mental health and wellbeing.
Australian Business Register. Assistance with registering online as a sole trader or partnership.
Australian Securities and Investment Commission. Apply for a company or business name. Learn your obligations as a company director and why record-keeping is a legal requirement for tax purposes.
Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman. Support and advocacy for Australian small business and family enterprises.
Australian Small Business. Follow this Facebook page for news, events, webinars and initiatives for building your small business.
Australian Taxation Office. Help for small businesses to understand and comply with tax requirements. There is information on preparing and lodging your BAS, Tax File Number essentials, superannuation, electronic record keeping, electronic payment systems and a free app.
Austrade. Find out about exporting, and how to expand your business Internationally.
business.gov.au Information to help your business succeed, including free tools and resources.
Contracts and tenders. Government tenders, State and Federal.
Events and workshops. A handy postcode search tool to find business workshops, networking events, conferences and webinars to help you to improve your business skills and grow your network.
Grants and programs. This useful postcode search tool will help you find a grant or support program to help your business.
Intellectual Property Australia. Information about trademarks, copyright, patent and design registrations. Protect your business name, innovations and inventions.
Workforce Australia Find staff, advertise job vacancies (for free) or find out how to host an internship. Connect to Employment Service Providers so they can help you with recruitment for free
Safe Work Australia. Australian government statutory body established to develop national policy relating to work health and safety and workers’ compensation.
Stay Smart Online. A guide to help owners and managers of small businesses to put good online security practices in place.
SMALL BUSINESS LINKS BY STATE
Business Victoria. A comprehensive online resource designed to help you start, run and grow your business in Victoria.
My Business NSW. Select your industry and dive into the options and info available. Ideal for ensuring you have appropriate NSW licences and permits.
Business SA. Information, services and resources to help you successfully start, run and grow your South Australian small business.
Business Queensland. Vital advice and information for starting and running a business in Queensland.
NT Government. A straightforward guide for starting, running and growing your business in the Northern Territory.
Small Business WA. Simple step-by-step advice for starting a business, as well as workshops in Perth and regional centres.
Business Tasmania. Tools and resources, funding and assistance for small business in Tasmania.
Do you need help to start your own business? Self-Employment Assistance is an Australian Government sponsored business training program, to assist with self-employment. Use the postcode finder for your local provider and contact them for a chat.
