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Small Business Resources › Starting a Small Business Guide

Your guide to starting a small business in Australia

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Starting a small business articles

Everything you need to know about how to start up a small business in Australia.

How to get an ABN

If you’re setting up a new business, you’ll need to know how to get an ABN in Australia – otherwise know as an Australian business number. Read the article to find out exactly what an ABN is, what it’s used for, and what information you require to apply for one.

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Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.

Types of business structures

A business structure refers to the legal structure of a business, and in Australia there are 4 main types; Sole Trader, Partnership, Company and Trust. Read the article to find out more about these structures and the advantages and disadvantages of each type to help you decide which one is right for your business.

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How to write a business plan

If you’re setting foot into the small business world and are unsure of how to write a business plan, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with our free small business plan template and strategy tips. Click below to read more and to download your business plan template now. 

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Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.
ou’ll probably have a good idea about depreciating assets, but when it comes to specifics around depreciation accounting and understanding what is depreciation schedules, it becomes a bit more complex. Read the article to break it down.

What is & how to calculate cost of goods sold (COGS)

Simply put, the cost of goods sold (COGS) is a core calculation in the buying and selling of goods by a small business, distributer, wholesaler, or manufacturer. Read the article to find out everything you need to know and to understand how to calculate COGS. 

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Budgeting and forecasting for small businesses

Budgeting and forecasting for small businesses sits at the very heart of profitability and success. Luckily, budgeting and forecasting is easily taught and implemented with either small business accounting software or basic accounting techniques. Read the article to find out how they both work.

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Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.
Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.

Budgeting tips for small businesses

For those small businesses who budget effectively, there are innumerable rewards in terms of boosting savings and managing debt. Read the article to find out tips and strategies to help you quickly improve your finances.

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What is brand identity?

Your business brand identity is one of the main reasons customers buy from you. It defines who you are and the image & perception your business portrays. Read the article for tips on creating your brand identity.

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Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.
Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.

Common and famous business mistakes

For those small business owners looking to avoid the harsh reality of failure, learning from common and famous business mistakes is an excellent remedy to your own possible missteps. Read the article and learn from their demise. 

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What is a business strategy?

You have a tantalising small business idea, a solid financial basis, and a lot of determination, but no business strategy. What is a business strategy and why does a good business idea need one, you ask? Read the article for more information.

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Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.
Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.

Accounting terms for small businesses

Small business accounting terms can seem daunting. But when they’re explained, they’re relatively straightforward and understanding them will strengthen your accounting know-how and the financial health of your small business. 

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What is the role of Director in a small business company?

What is a director in a company exactly? What is their role? How does it differ to the role of a CEO or managing director? As a small business owner, what do you need to understand about the role of a director? Read the article for more information.

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Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.
Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.

Characteristics and tips to be a successful entrepreneur

Successful entrepreneurs have a lot in common but  what exactly makes them so effective? Read on to  learn what it is that helps a successful entrepreneur hit such dizzying heights.

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Small business ideas that will actually make you money

If you are enamored with the idea of starting your own business and are not too sure of your business model or pursuit just yet, read our article for the 9 best small business ideas to fill your piggy bank.

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Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.
Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.

7 step guide on how to start a business in Australia

Thinking of starting a small business in Australia? If you’ve got a detailed plan in place it will give you the most potential for success. Read the article for 7 steps you can follow to ensure you’ve considered all the factors in starting your own business, and be ready to launch.

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6 small business tax help tips

If you’ve started or are starting a new business, there’s lots of decisions to be made that can have a huge impact on the day-to-day running of your business. Getting on top of the tax obligations and regulations that apply to your business can seem overwhelming. Read the article for our list of 6 tax help tips for new businesses.

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Government assistance packages. New Zealand will be rolling out a range of support packages and assistance aimed at reducing economic impacts on businesses due to COVID-19. It’s one of the largest in the world on a per capita basis and businesses are being urged to make full use of what is available to them. Let’s review the primary business support measures being rolled out.

Frequently asked questions

What business can I start from home?

The Covid-19 Pandemic has opened up a whole new remote world. Trends coming out of 2020 mean it’s never been easier to run your business from home. Cloud applications and the decline of face to face, necessitating new ways of interacting and forming relationships.

Here’s some business that you can start from home:

  • Blogging & copywriting
  • Buy and sell on ebay or FB marketplace
  • Ecommerce
  • Freelancing
  • Services based businesses e.g accounting, graphic design etc
  • Virtual assistant
  • Pet grooming/walking
  • Dropshipping

 

How can I get small business mentoring or support?

Starting your own business can be scary at first but there is help available. The Australian Government has a host of grants, programs and support for small businesses and new business businesses. Check out the below for more information:

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What are some overlooked business start up costs?

Starting a business can be an expensive exercise. Here are some start up costs that are often overlooked:

 

  • Professionals & business registrations. Including domain name registration, accountant, bookkeeper or business advisor fees or licences and permits for your particular market.
  • Technology. Including remote working equipment, software costs, computers, printers, scanners, modems and IT servicing,software for accounting, security, design, documents, internet and mobile packages
  • Marketing. Including website, ecommerce, advertising, including social media ad spend, logo, imagery, signage, branding and design
How can I fund my new business?

There are many ways to raise money to support your business, it’s up to you to choose the most suitable and sustainable option for you and your business. Here are some common capital raising methods:

  1. Existing savings or current earnings if you are still working.
  2. Selling assets
  3. Family & friends
  4. Credit card
  5. Loan from the bank
  6. Short term business loans
  7. Government business grants
  8. Angel investors & venture capital

See our business financing hub for more information.

Free starting a business guide

Starting your own business is simultaneously one of the most rewarding and demanding things you can undertake. When you first start out in the business world, there’s a lot of assumed knowledge you’ll need to absorb quickly.

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