How does long service leave work in a small business?
15 November 2023
Blog
Taking long service leave might seem like one of the perks of working for a big corporation or government department – but it can apply to small business employees too. Here’s an overview of how long service leave works as a paid entitlement in Western Australia and how it works in a small business. How long is ‘long’ service? Entitlements for long...
What advice is worth paying for in your business?
5 March 2025
Blog
Paying for professional advice when you start a business will save you money later on. So what advice is worth paying for? The answer to this question really depends on the kind of business you run. For example, if you’re an accountant running your own business, you know your way around a profit and loss statement and understand the difference...
What does 2024 have in store for small business?
23 February 2024
Blog
A feature of my role as the Small Business Commissioner is that I am often asked about emerging issues in the small business landscape, particularly as each new year commences. While I sometimes wish for a clearer crystal ball, the benefit of having a network of peers across business and all levels of government, as well as having access to our in...
Lessons WA business owners have learnt about running a business
30 March 2021
Blog
Find out what Western Australian business owners have said are the most important things they have learnt about running a business.
Nothing flaky about this pastry business: French Resistance café
14 August 2024
Blog
Gaelle Morival’s foray into the business world began with her love for French pastries and a desire to bring a slice of France to Perth. In October 2023, she purchased an existing café, French Resistance, which had already been operating for five years. Gaelle saw this as an opportunity to combine her passion for delicious French pastries with a...
What do new reforms mean for your NDIS business?
5 November 2024
Blog
Since it started in Western Australia in late 2020, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has had significant scrutiny, with final reports on the Royal Commission and a formal review of the scheme delivered in 2023. The Australian Government’s response has included making legislative changes that started on 3 October 2024 that you should...
How will the 'right to disconnect' laws affect small businesses?
14 August 2025
Blog
From 26 August 2025, the Australian Government’s right to disconnect laws will apply to small business employers. Australia’s workplace landscape has undergone significant changes recently, with the Federal Government passing a series of amendments to the Fair Work Act – also known as the 'Closing Loopholes' laws. The right to disconnect laws were...
Starting a Business
Workshop

If you are thinking about starting a business, but don't know where to begin, this FREE workshop will take you through the essentials.

Tax requirements
Content page

Overview of the most common tax registrations needed by small business owners as well as the different tax obligations such as payroll tax, pay as you go installments and more.

Employer obligations
Content page

An overview of the different obligations you have when you employ staff. This includes pay and employment conditions, tax, super, leave entitlements and a range of employment laws.

Market research
Content page

Find out more about conducting market including defining your objectives, sources and types of market research data and how to analyse the results.

Legal responsibilities
Content page

Explains the legal obligations of a business owner in key areas such as business structures and registrations, selling goods and services, contracts, employing staff and more.