Business advisory service
Content page

Find out more about the SBDC's free advisory service, the areas we can help you with and how to contact us.

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.

Steps to starting a business
Content page

Follow these steps to help you decide if you are ready to go into business, how to get started and where to seek help along the way.

Financial planning documents
Content page

Overview of key financial planning documents you need to understand as a business owner. This includes budgets, forecasts, profit and loss statements (P&L), balance sheets and financial health indicators.

Practical guide to business insurance
Content page

Having the right business insurance is an important part of establishing a reputable and sustainable business, and minimising risk. Your type of business and daily activities will determine the insurance cover needed.

Understanding short term leases
18 August 2021
Blog
Find out more about the pros and cons of short term leases and one could be right for your business.
Can my landlord do that?
4 October 2023
Blog
It’s no secret that the cost of practically everything seems to have risen. As a commercial leasing tenant, it’s important to understand the outgoing clauses in your lease, so there are no surprises later on. Our business advisers spend a lot of time speaking with small business owners across WA. One question appears to be coming up frequently in...
How to make good at the end of your commercial lease
20 June 2022
Blog
There can often be confusion and disputes when you’re exiting a commercial lease and need to meet a number of ‘make good’ obligations. The make good clause in your lease will outline the condition the building must be in when the lease comes to an end. Here is a summary of the top make good obligations that most often lead to a dispute, and some...
5 things to know before signing a lease
12 August 2021
Blog
Signing a lease is a big commitment for any business. Here are our top five things you need to know before signing on the dotted line.
Small business owner’s guide to buying a vehicle
28 May 2025
Blog
Investing in a major business asset, like a motor vehicle, is a big step for a small business. Before handing over your hard earned money or signing any paperwork, there are some important factors to consider before committing to a vehicle purchase. Consider your business needs Before deciding whether your business needs a vehicle, it’s important...
3 vital factors to consider in your business fit out
23 August 2021
Blog
Here are three factors to consider when you’re planning a fit out for business premises you will be leasing.
Are landlord’s works causing disruption to your business?
20 November 2019
Blog
You may be entitled to compensation if your landlord is carrying out works that are causing disruption to your business. Some of the situations in which you can claim compensation are: if general works are being carried out by the landlord in your shopping centre or building the shopping centre or building are being redeveloped the disclosure...