Starting a business — plain-English guides
Practical how-tos that link to official sources — built for real decisions and Google-friendly reading, not fluff.
Essentials
Before you start a business in Australia: a checklist
The key things to sort out before you open the doors — structure, ABN, business name, GST, licences, insurance and costs.
What to do just after you start your business
The first-90-days housekeeping: bank accounts, records, invoicing, BAS, hiring obligations and getting found online.
ABN, business name and company: what’s the difference?
These three often get confused. Here’s what each one is, when you need it, and how they fit together.
GST registration explained (the $75,000 threshold)
When you have to register for GST, how the threshold works, and what changes once you’re registered.
How-to (search favourites)
How to apply for an ABN in Australia (step by step)
Who needs an ABN, what you need ready, how to apply online, and what to do after you get the number.
Do I need to register for GST in Australia?
The $75,000 threshold explained with examples, voluntary registration, rideshare rules, and what changes once you register.
Sole trader vs company in Australia: which should you choose?
Cost, liability, tax admin and when a Pty Ltd is worth it — plus partnerships in brief.
How to register a business name with ASIC
When you need a business name, how to check availability, register on ASIC Connect, and what registration does not give you.
Google Business Profile checklist for Australian businesses
A practical checklist to get found on Google Search and Maps — claim, categories, photos, reviews and weekly habits.
Hiring your first employee in Australia: PAYG and super
What to set up before payday — PAYG withholding, super guarantee, awards and records.
By industry
Starting a cafe or food business in Australia
Council food registration, fit-out, staff awards, GST and the costs people usually underestimate.
Starting a cleaning business in Australia
ABN, insurance, contracts, chemicals/WHS and how to price residential vs commercial cleaning.
Starting as a tradie or contractor in Australia
Licences, white card, insurance, tools, GST and the difference between sole trader and company for trades.
Starting a beauty, hair or nail business in Australia
Council rules, skin penetration, insurance, fit-out and how to get clients locally.
Starting an online store in Australia
ABN, GST on sales, payments, shipping, policies and the marketing basics that matter first.
Looking for short answers? See the FAQ. For customers, see Marketing.