Whether your interest is business or leisure, Australia is a fascinating country to visit. For those who desire to set up a business in Australia, this guide will get you started.
About the Country, Australia
Australia is both a country and continent located in the Southern Hemisphere. As a continent, it is world’s smallest, but its largest island bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Indian Ocean to the west, and the Southern Ocean to the south.
It is, however, the sixth-largest country in the world by land area, covering approximately 7.7 million square kilometers. Australia has a population of approximately 25 million people, with the majority living in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
The capital city is Canberra.
The country has a rich, unique flora and fauna, with many species found nowhere else in the world. It is home to many famous landmarks and tourist destinations. Some of these include the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru (Ayers Rock), the Sydney Opera House, and the Great Ocean Road.
Australia is a multicultural country, with a rich history and diverse population. English is the official language. And the Australian dollar is the currency. The country practices parliamentary democracy and a federal system of government. The Prime Minister is the head of government.
The Australian Economy and Business Environment
Australia is a highly developed country with an open and well diversified economy. By nominal GDP, Australia is the 14th largest economy in the world. However, it is sixth in terms of GDP per capital making the country one of the wealthiest in the world.
The Australian economy is dominated by the service sector, followed by mining and agriculture. The country also has abundant natural resources, including coal, iron ore, gold, and natural gas.
Australia ranks 14th out of 190 countries in World Bank Ease of Doing Business Index. This means that the country’s business environment is favourable.
It also means that the country’s laws and regulatory framework are sufficient to encourage people to start and operate businesses in Australia.
Generally, Australia provides a supportive business environment for both local and foreign investors. The government actively promotes investment in the country. It offers various incentives and assistance programs to businesses looking to establish themselves in Australia.
Foreigners are allowed to set up virtually all types of businesses as long as the promoters meet relevant legal requirements. They can set up sole proprietorship, limited liability company, partnership, or even trusts. Foreigners are also free to set up franchises, joint ventures, and subsidiaries of oversea companies in Australia.
However, some type of businesses may require additional licensing apart from the normal business/company registration.
How to Set Up a Business in Australia
It’s important to note that different business structures have different legal requirements and tax implications, and seeking professional advice can help ensure you choose the right structure for your business.
To set up a business in Australia as a foreigner, you have to do a couple of things in line with legal requirements. Here are some of the key issues you must consider:
#1. Type of Business to Do
The first step is to brainstorm and decide on the type of business to do in Australia. There are a lot of small businesses you can easily start and operate in Australia. Think through the options, consider your skills, passion and goals before deciding on a business to. And most importantly, consider the legal, regulatory and tax requirements.
In this article, you will also learn some of the small businesses you can easily do as a foreigner in Australia. This list is not exhaustive, it is only a guide.
#2. Business Structure
The next thing is to decide on a business structure. This can be a sole trader, partnership, company or trust. Each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages and will depend on the type of business you plan to set up.
#3. Business Registration
Once you’ve decided on your business structure, you’ll need to register your business with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). You’ll need to provide details about your business, such as your business name, address, and director information.
#4. Apply for an ABN and other licenses.
You’ll also need to apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN), which is a unique identifier for your business. Depending on the nature of your business, you may also need to apply for other licenses and permits. ABN is issued by the Australian Business Register (ABR). This register is maintained by the Australia Tax Office (ATO).
You can complete the registration for ABN online or engage a tax agent knowledgeable in dealing with the Australian tax authorities. Registration is free and it is possible to obtain your ABN within days after submission of application.
#5. Open a Bank Account
You’ll need to open a bank account in Australia in the name of your business. It is important to research and compare different banks before deciding on which to open an account with. Different banks may have different requirements and you need know which one will meet your needs as a business.
#6. Taxes
As a business owner in Australia, you’ll be required to pay taxes, including income tax, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and Pay As You Go (PAYG) tax.
#7. Employment
If you plan to employ staff, you’ll need to comply with Australian employment laws, including providing appropriate working conditions and ensuring you have the necessary insurances in place.
Types of Small Businesses You Can Set Up in Australia
Now you know that Australia is a fascinating place to live and do business. You are excited and will like to explore business opportunities in this country. If this is you, I believe you’ll want some ideas. You’re lucky. Here, I have a list of few ideas.
Some of the small business ideas that you can legally operate in Australia include:
#1. Online retail store:
You can start an online retail store selling products that are in high demand in Australia. This can be a great way to reach customers without needing a physical location.
#2. Food truck or catering business:
If you have experience in the food industry, you can start a food truck or catering business in Australia. However, you will need to obtain relevant permits and licenses.
#3. Home cleaning service:
You can start a home cleaning service and offer services such as house cleaning, laundry, and ironing. You will need to comply with Australian tax laws and obtain appropriate insurance.
#4. Tutoring or coaching:
If you have expertise in a particular subject or skill, you can start a tutoring or coaching business. This can be done online or in person.
#5. Pet care services:
If you are an animal lover, you can start a pet care business offering services such as dog walking, pet grooming, and pet sitting. As a pet care service provider, your business offers to take care of animals are away at work, vacations or visiting, etc. To be successful in this business, you have to have some experience in handling animals, particularly when they are agitated.
#7. Elderly Care Home
There is growing need for elderly care in many countries around the world, Australia not an exception. If you have some skills and experience in taking care of the elderly, you then have yourself a thriving business in Australia.
The investment required to set up a proper home care facility for the elderly may be somewhat huge. However, this investment is justified by amount of potential return because the demand for elderly care facilities is high.
#8. Immigration Consulting Services
Approximately 8 million immigrants from different parts of the world live in Australia in 2020. This is about 30% of the country’s population. People come to this country for many purposes: studies, vacations, work and business.
The high rate of migration to Australia annually throws up immigration issues. New immigrants need advice to get their paperwork right, understand the labour laws among other issues.
Here’s where you come in if you have good understanding of the Australia immigration laws and processes. You can operate a lucrative business by simply helping people who want to travel to Australia process their papers and guiding existing immigrants in maintaining their stay in the country.
Final Words
It’s important to note that to set up a business in Australia can be complex and there may be additional requirements depending on the nature of your business. Seeking professional advice from a lawyer or accountant with experience in Australian business law can help ensure you comply with all necessary requirements.
Also very important is that you must secure the appropriate visa if you wish to set up a business in Australia. This is because, as it is obtained in many other countries, not all visa types entitle you to live and do business in Australia.
Buchi creates content and leads the Team at Kobotalk Management Services; a business development and investment consultancy firm. He provides strategic advisory to help SME's, small business owners and HNI's grow profitable business and make informed investing decisions.
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