Establishing and managing a successful small business can be a financially rewarding and personally satisfying exercise. However, as many small businesses fail within the first 12 months of establishment, careful planning is required to ensure your ‘baby’ is a success.
If you are thinking about starting your own small business, it is recommended that you first ask yourself some basic questions such as: -
Why do I want to start a business? -
Am I simply ‘buying a job for myself’? -
Am I passionate about something, tempered against the reality of running a business based on that passion? -
Is there a market for my product or service? -
Would running a business fit within my current relationship/s? If after answering these questions you decide to proceed, the following organisations and websites can provide assistance. Initial Contactswww.business.gov.au
A Commonwealth government website with information regarding all aspects of starting and managing a small business. Information regarding grants and subsidies available in each state and territory, importing and exporting, insurance, intellectual property and much more.
Business Enterprise Centres (BEC)
Offer starter kits, seminars, workshops, advice, information, referrals, business breakfasts and other functions to build leads and share experiences. Tel. 1300 123 232.
Business SA
A range of services to support businesses in South Australia - including information and advice, consulting services and training. 136 Greenhill Rd, Unley, tel. 8300 0103. New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS)
Assists eligible jobseekers (approved for a Centrelink unemployment benefits payment), who have an idea for a viable new small business, to establish their self-employment venture. For further information contact the Employment Services Information Line tel. 13 28 50. TrainingSmall Business Training Centre (TAFE)
TAFE has courses such as Certificate IV in Business (Small Business Management), designed for owners/managers and those intending to go into business in the near future, 120 Currie St Adelaide, tel. 8410 0000.
WEA
WEA has a range of courses such as Plan and Start a Small Business, Starting up a Bed and Breakfast, Marketing your Business and Promoting your Business. 223 Angas St, Adelaide, tel. 8223 1272, 1800 638 749.
Professional Associations
Most businesses and professions have a state or national association which may be able to provide advice, support, mentoring and possibly accredited training for people entering their area of occupation. A list of associations can be found in the Yellow Pages under Organisations – Business & Professional. Statutory RequirementsAustralian Taxation Office (ATO)
Offers Tax Basics Seminars (Tel: 1300 661 104), advisory visits from field officers, assistance for new businesses regarding GST and PAYG requirements. Information dissemination - taxation guides, booklets, fact sheets, community information presentation and seminars. 91 Waymouth St, Adelaide, Business enquiries tel. 1300 661 104.
Work Cover Corporation
Businesses that have employees are required to register with Work Cover. 100 Waymouth Street, Adelaide, tel. 13 18 55, TTY 8233 2574.
Superannuation
Businesses that have employees must contribute to a superannuation scheme for the employees. Information is available from the Australian Taxation Office Superannuation Helpline tel. 13 72 26
Local Government regulations
Depending upon the type of business you considering establishing, you may need to meet certain Council requirements such as maximum permitted noise and emission levels, food handling standards and residence/land use restrictions. Contact your local council for further details. ConsultancyBusiness owners may benefit from consulting business advisors such as accountants, financial planners, lease negotiators and marketing specialists. Look in the Yellow Pages for these businesses. FranchisesFranchise Council of Australia
Offers practical information, frequently asked questions, a directory of member franchisors and service providers such as consultants, lawyers and accountants, tel. 1300 669 030. Businesses in need of assistanceBusiness Helpline
For people in small business who are in financial difficulty. Assistance includes financial and business advice or emotional support. Clients may be referred to an accountant or lawyer free of charge for limited consultation. Tel. 1300 886 220 Office of Small Business
Including the Small Business Advocate, this office assists small business operators who are experiencing difficulty dealing with state government departments. Investigates complaints and negotiates with relevant state government agencies Tel. 8303 2519 |
