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Licences & permits
Do you need a licence or permit?
Many businesses need licences or permits depending on their industry and location. The official ABLIS tool tells you exactly which apply to you.
Check ABLIS firstThe Australian Business Licence and Information Service lists the licences, permits, registrations and approvals you may need — filtered by your business type and location.
Common examples by industry
| Business type | Licences / permits often needed |
|---|---|
| Food & hospitality | Council food business registration, food safety supervisor, possibly a liquor licence |
| Trades & construction | Trade licences/registration, white card, building or electrical/plumbing licences |
| Beauty & personal care | Skin penetration/registration with council, health regulations |
| Childcare, health, aged care | Working with children check, police checks, sector accreditation |
| Transport & rideshare | Driver accreditation, vehicle standards, insurance |
| Home-based business | Council home business/development approval in some areas |
Working from home?
Some home-based businesses need council approval, especially if customers visit, you have signage, or you generate extra traffic, noise or waste. Check with your local council early — it can affect your insurance too.
Rules differ by state and council
Licensing is split across federal, state/territory and local council levels, so requirements vary by location. Always confirm with the relevant authority.
State & territory business hubs
- Service NSW — Business
- Business Victoria
- Business Queensland
- Small Business Development Corporation (WA)
- Business SA / SA.GOV.AU
- Business Tasmania
- Canberra Business (ACT)
- Business NT
Heads upThe examples above are general and not exhaustive. Use ABLIS and your local council to confirm exactly what applies to your business.
Official tool: ABLIS — Australian Business Licence and Information Service.