Starting a business? You've come to the right place!
We have sourced useful small business information, support services and resources available from local, state and federal government agencies and key government funded organisations, to help you find the information you need.
The following information, resources and checklists will give your new business the best possible start.
- Small Business Development Corporation’ Steps to Starting a Business
- Australian Government’s Guide to Starting a Business
- Australian Government’s Starting Your Business Checklist
You can also access The Business Licence Finder to discover the licences, permits and registrations you need to start, run and grow your business.
How to start a business
The Small Business Development Corporation’s (SBDC) starting a business checklist(open in new window) guides you through the early stages of setting up your business.
Following this checklist will help you assess your readiness to launch, outline the process and tap into SBDC’s additional support.
SBDC also offers these support services:
- Business counselling and advice
- Training and workshops
- Access to finance
- Market research and analysis
- Networking opportunities
- Assistance with government regulations
- Specialised support programs.
An essential part of business success is choosing the right location for your premises.
While market research can help make this decision, there are also planning laws and zoning restrictions that you need to comply with.
Home-based businesses: Depending on the type of home-based business you want to operate and the nature of your business, you might need approval from the City. Depending on your zone, planning approval is not usually required to operate a home office or home occupation.
The best thing to do is contact us to discuss.
You may also need licences, permits and registrations to start and run your business.
Health, planning and building approvals are required for many business activities in the City of Swan. Access all the application forms on the business licences, permits and approvals page.
Can’t find what you need for your business? Use SBDC’s Business Licence Finder(open in new window) and search according to your business type.
The City’s economic profile tool(open in new window) provides detailed data that helps you understand our regions position in the broader economy.
It offers insights for exploring economic development opportunities and highlights the area’s unique strengths to promote growth.
Subscribe to our SwanBiz e-newsletter and get a monthly update featuring the latest business news, events, information and important announcements.
You can also see our list of business events and workshops.
Need help? Contact the City’s Business and Tourism Services team for more information. You can also make an appointment with one of our economic development representatives.