Start a business

You might consider starting your own business if you have a business idea that can generate an income.

Self-employment and entrepreneurship

Self-employment and entrepreneurship is when you work for yourself as a freelancer or you are the owner of your own business, rather than working for someone else. 

You may contract out your services to an individual or organisation, rather than being hired as a direct employee; or work for yourself in your own business. You will need to register for a free Australian Business Number (ABN) and directly invoice the client for services/products you provide. 

You may have an online business through a website, a Facebook or Instagram account, or a YouTube channel, etc. and get paid electronically through BPay or something similar. Again, you would need an ABN and declare any earnings.

The ‘gig economy’ is a term used to refer to the increased amount of contract, temporary, flexible and freelance work. Uber drivers and Deliveroo couriers are examples of workers in the gig economy. Websites such as Freelancer, Fiverr and Upwork are popular online platforms for connecting people to the gig economy (i.e. either outsourcing your skills, or, hiring a contractor to provide you a service). 

Self-employment may be a viable option if you have a unique skill, or to supplement other forms of employment. You would need to do your own research about things like Superannuation and Workers’ Compensation.

Support for small businesses

There are a wide range of programs and services available to small business owners to assist them to start and grow their businesses.

Connecting you to information, grants, registrations and support to help your business succeed. The website provides an array of useful information, and an online chat function, or you can phone the Small Business Hotline on 1300 654 687 for more information on support programs, grants and services for Queensland small businesses.

 

Support for young entrepreneurs

The Australian School of Entrepreneurship (ASE) is Australia’s largest youth-led social enterprise. Teaching young people about the essential adulting skills not taught in traditional classrooms through access to on-demand online training, high energy workshops and large events.

The ASE Group is made up of 3 divisions:

  1. Australian School of Employment
  2. Australian School of Entrepreneurship
  3. Australian Institute of Innovation & Leadership

Learn more at ASE.

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