Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Business in Australia 🇦🇺 (for Beginners)
Starting a business might feel overwhelming, especially if you have limited experience—but with the right steps and support, it's entirely achievable. Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to help you get started in Australia:
1. Check If You're Ready
Before anything else, determine if your activity qualifies as a business or is just a hobby, and ensure you’re legally allowed to operate a business in Australia.
Check if you’re starting a business or hobby:🔗 Business vs Hobby – business.gov.au
If you’re not an Australian citizen, ensure your visa permits business activity:🔗 Visa information – Home Affairs
2. Choose a Business Structure
Your structure affects your legal responsibilities, taxes, and paperwork.
Common options include:
Sole trader – simplest form, full control
Partnership – shared ownership
Company – separate legal entity
Trust – a structure for asset management
Compare structures:🔗 Business structures – business.gov.au
3. Create a Simple Business Plan
Even a one-page plan helps you clarify your ideas.
Include your goals, ideal customer, how you’ll make money, costs, and key risks.
Use this free tool:🔗 Business plan template – business.gov.au
4. Register Your Business
Now that you're clear on your plan and structure, it’s time to go official.
Apply for an ABN (Australian Business Number):🔗 Apply for an ABN – Australian Business Register
Register your business name (if different from your own):🔗 Business name registration – ASIC
Register for taxes, like GST (if your turnover is $75K+):🔗 Register for taxes – business.gov.au
5. Sort Out Your Finances
Getting your finances organised early helps you stay compliant and profitable.
Open a business bank account
Set up basic bookkeeping (Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks are good for beginners)
Learn about your tax obligations:🔗 Tax basics for small business – ATO
🌐 6. Establish Your Online Presence
Even if you're not tech-savvy, having an online presence is essential.
Build a simple website (consider platforms like Squarespace, Shopify, or WordPress)
Set up social media accounts for brand visibility
Consider free design tools like Canva for logos and branding
7. Hiring (Optional at First)
If you plan to hire staff or contractors, you'll need to follow Australian employment laws.
Understand your legal obligations:🔗 Hiring employees – Fair Work Ombudsman
8. Protect Your Business
Don’t skip this! Protecting your business is just as important as setting it up.
Consider insurance such as public liability or professional indemnity🔗 Business insurance explained – business.gov.au
Learn how to protect your intellectual property (name, logo, product designs):🔗 IP Australia – Guide to Intellectual Property
Final Tip: Use Free Government Resources
The Australian Government offers excellent guides for beginners: