If you're starting a business, find out what support is available and connect with local services. Here's a range of support and programs the Australian Government offers to support your business development.
On this page:
Self-Employment Assistance
From 1 July 2022, the Self-Employment Assistance program will replace the current New Business Assistance with NEIS program. NEIS participants will continue to be supported in their NEIS business.
Self-Employment Assistance can assist you to turn your business ideas, or your existing micro-business (with up to 4 employees) into a commercially viable business.
Get help to explore, run and operate your new or existing micro-business through tailored advice and mentoring. There is a range of support available, ranging from getting help with your business idea, developing business plans and small business training to receiving tailored business advice so that your business becomes financially viable.
Find out more about Self-Employment Assistance.New Business Assistance with NEIS
New Business Assistance with NEIS can help you transform your business ideas into a viable business. It offers:
- Accredited small business training
- Business plan development
- NEIS Allowance and NEIS Rental Assistance (if eligible)
- Personalised mentoring
From 1 July 2022, the Self-Employment Assistance program will replace the New Business Assistance with NEIS program. NEIS participants will continue to be supported in their NEIS business.
Turn your business ideas into reality with NEISExploring Being My Own Boss Workshops
Exploring Being My Own Boss Workshops can give you an understanding of self-employment and entrepreneurship. These workshops might suit if you:
- Have a business idea
- Want to become your own boss, but don't know where to start
Entrepreneurship Facilitators
Entrepreneurship Facilitators offer a free service to help Australians start and run their own business. They can provide you with:
- Information and advice about starting and running a business
- Personalised mentoring and support
- Referrals to other support services to help with your business
SelfStart your business
The SelfStart hub provides information to help you with the initial stages of starting your own business. SelfStart provides:
- Links to resources and articles
- Information on topic areas including planning, validating your idea, finding local support, and perfecting your pitch
Your guide to starting a business
The guide to starting a business is a step-by-step tool to help you understand what to plan for when starting a business in Australia. Here you'll find:
- Information for both current and future small business owners
- Valuable resources
- Tools and links