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We constantly monitor available resources, including information and support services, that may assist you with operating a small business in Queensland.

Operating a small business

Starting a business.

Grants and programs finder AusIndustry

https://www.dewr.gov.au/self-employment-assistance

Coronavirus (COVID-19) business assistance finder Business Queensland

https://advance.qld.gov.au/entrepreneurs-and-startups

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/starting-business/planning/launchpad

Franchising - Is it for you - ACCC logo

https://www.accc.gov.au/update/franchising-is-it-for-you

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/starting-business/advice-support/support/women

Running a business

https://smallbusiness.taxsuperandyou.gov.au/

21 online courses and tutorials covering general business processes with broad coverage of major industries and business basics.

qld gov small business plan

https://ecobiz.businesschamberqld.com.au/how-it-works/

Free assessment with an ecoBiz coach for advice on how to cut costs and increase efficiencies across energy, water and waste.

https://backtowork.initiatives.qld.gov.au/sbsc-micro-credentials/

Micro-credentialing

https://www.qtic.com.au/workforce-development/Micro-Credentialing/

https://business.gov.au/finance/accounting/end-of-financial-year

Grow your business and yourself

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/growing-business/business-mentoring/mentoring-growth

https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/industry-growth-program

Free advisory service with opportunity of matched funding for SME’s to commercialise and grow their business.

https://business.gov.au/expertise-and-advice/

Low-cost access to one-to-one advice, world-class workshops, and online webinars. Regional Business HQ is the supplier contracted by the Australian Government to deliver this program in Queensland.

Build a Better Business

https://business.tafeqld.edu.au/workshops/view/build-better-business-workshop

https://advance.qld.gov.au/entrepreneurs-and-startups/backing-female-founders-program

Supporting Queensland’s female founders to grow and scale their Queensland innovation businesses.

Creative Business Champions

https://www.arts.qld.gov.au/projects-and-initiatives/regional-arts-services-network-outcomes/background-and-goals/creative-business-champions

Although now closed, their site allows access to the free webinar series by the Regional Arts Services Network, with topics including Marketing and Grant Writing.

Brisbane Business Hub events and workshops calendar

https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/governance-and-strategy/business-in-brisbane/growing-brisbanes-economy/multicultural-business/the-lord-mayors-multicultural-business-scholarship-and-mentoring-scheme

https://desbt.qld.gov.au/training/training-careers/recognition/rpl

Skills Checkpoint for Older Workers

https://www.dewr.gov.au/skills-checkpoint-older-workers-program

https://jobsqueensland.qld.gov.au/workforce-planning-connect/

Support services

Digital security and energy business check-ups.

ecoBiz Energy Coaches

https://ecobiz.cciq.com.au/

BEAP Business Energy Advice Program

https://www.energy.gov.au/business

Energy Made Easy

https://www.energymadeeasy.gov.au/

Hiring staff from overseas Business Queensland

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/employing/planning-workforce/industry-workforce-advisors

Help find solutions to employment challenges and connect with incentives and funding opportunities.

https://desbt.qld.gov.au/employment/workforce-connect-fund

$5,000 to provide immediate human resources (HR) support and advice to help address workforce challenges and diversify workforces.

Hiring Employees checklist business.gov.au

https://business.gov.au/people/employees/hiring-employees

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/employing/taking-on-staff/overseas

Injury Prevent and Management program (Workplace Health and Safety Queensland)

https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/

Workplace Obligations Fair Work Ombudsman

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/contact-us

General disputes

Queensland Government Dispute Resolution Centres

https://www.qld.gov.au/law/legal-mediation-and-justice-of-the-peace/settling-disputes-out-of-court/abbreviated-mediation

Wellbeing services

Ahead for Business

https://aheadforbusiness.org.au/

https://www.qld.gov.au/health/mental-health/help-lines

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/starting-business/advice-support/support/wellbeing

Tailored, one-on-one, financial counselling , wellness coaching and access to other support services .

NewAccess for small business owners - Beyond Blue logo

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/newaccess-mental-health-coaching/newaccess-for-small-business-owners

Free and confidential mental health coaching program for small business owners. Ph: 1300 945 301

Financial assistance

Financial Assistance Hub - Austalian Banking Association logo

https://www.ausbanking.org.au/assistance/

Available now

SB Debt Helpline

https://sbdh.org.au/

Financial counselling

Small Business Souther Qld Financial Counsellors

https://www.rfcssq.org.au/

Free one-on-one help with rural business financial issues.

Small Business Northern Qld Financial Counsellors

https://www.rfcsnq.com.au/small-business/free-financial-counselling-for-small-business

qld gov small business plan

https://www.sbfcssq.org.au/

https://www.financialrights.org.au/getting-help/mob-strong-debt-help/

Free legal advice about money matters for Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander peoples.

Grant and support finder tools

https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/community-and-safety/grants-awards-and-sponsorships/summary-of-grant-programs

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/covid-assistance

https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs

https://www.grants.services.qld.gov.au/

Backing Queensland Business Investment Fund (BIF)

https://www.qic.com.au/bqbif

https://backtowork.initiatives.qld.gov.au/for-employers/

https://www.treasury.qld.gov.au/investment/investment-programs-and-support/backing-business-in-the-bush-fund/

An investment program to support Queensland small to medium enterprises (SMEs) undertake projects in regional Queensland.

Applications close 14 January 2024.

https://www.rdmw.qld.gov.au/manufacturing/manufacturing-assistance-programs/made-in-queensland

Matched funding to help small and medium sized manufacturers increase international competitiveness, productivity and innovation. 

Applications close 11 December 2023.

Indigenous Business Australia Start-up Finance Package

https://iba.gov.au/business/finance/start-finance-package/

Music Industry Crisis Relief Grants

https://supportact.org.au/get-help/crisis-relief-grants/

Business Loans for Refugees in Australia Thrive

https://thriverefugeeenterprise.org.au/

https://www.exportfinance.gov.au/how-we-can-help/our-solutions/small-business-export-loan/

Currently there are no rebates available.

Business health checks

Starting a business health check.

Use the interactive diagnostic tool to:

  • assess the strengths and weaknesses of your new business start-up approach
  • identify opportunities to improve your business start-up plans and processes.

Change readiness health check

Is your business strong enough to deal with disruptions and emergencies? Take the business health check to identify changes you can make to get your business ready for change and help your business survive and thrive.

Finance health check

  • assess your current financial situation
  • find out where there may be opportunities for growth in your business.

Digital health check

  • assess your current digital strengths
  • identify opportunities to add digital capabilities to your business.

Marketing health check

  • assess the strengths and weaknesses of your current marketing approach.
  • identify opportunities to improve your marketing capability and effectiveness.

Tourism business health check

Take this health check to understand and improve the resilience of your business so you are ready for anything – from loss of key staff to a pandemic or natural disaster.

Trade mark checker

This TM Checker from IP Australia makes it easier for small businesses to check if a trade mark is available.

Legal and tax

Legal and tax services.

Arts Law Centre of Australia

https://www.artslaw.com.au/

Griffith Tax Clinic

https://www.griffith.edu.au/griffith-business-school/departments/accounting-finance-economics/griffith-tax-clinic

James Cook University (JCU) Australia Tax Clinic

https://www.jcu.edu.au/college-of-business-law-and-governance/tax-clinic

https://www.communitylegalqld.org.au

Connect individuals with local community legal centres.

Queensland Law Society

https://www.qls.com.au/Find-a-Solicitor/Search

IP and Trade marks

Protect the value of your intellectual property (IP). The IP Australia website has information about patents, trade marks and getting your IP strategy right.

Upskill on trade marks.

Before you apply for a trade mark, it’s important to understand what it protects and how it works. This free online course can help you master the basics. 

© The State of Queensland 1995–2022, Queensland Government

Welcome to Department of Employment, Small Business and Training. You can also access Department of Youth Justice information .

Department of Employment, Small Business and Training

Apprenticeships work for everyone.

Whoever you are, whatever your goals, there's an apprenticeship or traineeship that can work for you.

Let's protect respect

New campaign promotes respect and support to keep more apprenticeships and traineeships safe, inclusive and on track.

Good people. Good jobs.

The Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022–2032 is our 10-year plan for a strong, skilled and diverse workforce ready to seize today’s jobs and adapt to future opportunities.

We deliver programs to get people back to work and support business to employ and assist jobseekers.

Small business

We help small businesses to start, grow and employ through grants and support programs.

We connect people to quality training and skills to prepare them for work now and in the future.

What are you looking for?

Popular links.

Whoever you are, whatever your goals – apprenticeships work for everyone

Developing a new Queensland VET strategy

Campaign promotes respect and support for apprentices, trainees and employers

Kick start your career with Free TAFE

Queensland's Clean Energy Workforce Roadmap

Visit the Business Queensland website for information, tools and support

Queensland Government home

The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory

Queensland small business month kicks off with $2.5 million business boost.

Published Saturday, 22 April, 2023 at 10:00 AM

Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development The Honourable Di Farmer

  • The Palaszczuk Government’s flagship small business event in May, Queensland Small Business Month 2023 has been launched with the opening of the $2.5 million Business Growth Fund offering grants of up to $75,000.
  • Queensland Small Business Month (from May 1 to 31) has a “love your local” theme and highlights the importance of the 473,000 small businesses that account for 97 per cent of all businesses in Queensland.
  • More than 80 business support events are planned throughout May across Queensland to mark the sector’s vital contribution to our economy, to our communities and to our daily lives.

Queensland small businesses contribute around $119 billion to the State’s economy annually.

Queensland Small Business Month will see events held from the Northern Peninsula Area to the Southern Gold Coast and include “Do it in Douglas” in Port Douglas; ‘Toes in the Grass’ in Moreton Bay; “Custard Apple Muster Day” in Bundaberg; and “Speed dating for employers and employees” in Mount Tamborine.

In support of small business and recognition of the month, the $2.5 million Business Growth Fund grant program has opened. Small businesses will be able to apply for grants of up to $75,000 to help eligible businesses kick start their next growth opportunity and boost their productivity and confidence to scale up.

This year’s Small Business Month events continue to tackle the big and important issues for small business owners across the state like cyber security, talent retention, growth and financial literacy.

The events will help them connect with local resources and networks, which can make all the difference when it comes to finding support and growing a business.

In addition to the face-to-face events, this year QSBMonline is providing easy access to online sessions. Small business owners can learn about topics such as social media and digital marketing, workforce planning and management, and innovation to grow a business.

To register for or list an event, go to www.business.qld.gov.au/qsbm

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer:

“Our amazing Queensland small business are the heart and soul of our communities, from the cities and towns to our isolated rural areas and I urge Queenslanders to show some love to your hard working local.

“We can’t survive without small businesses and they can’t survive without us.

“I urge Queenslanders to get out in their community and back your small business by shopping local, sharing on social media what is special about your favourite local business, writing a review and telling your friends.

“I also encourage small business owners and operators to register for one of the many events across the state where they can share ideas and expand their networks.

“I am also extremely pleased to announce more government support for small businesses with the opening of the $2.5 million Business Growth Fund.

“Small businesses will be able to apply for grants of up to $75,000 to help eligible businesses seize their next growth opportunity and boost their productivity and confidence to scale up.

“Many of our small businesses are intergenerational family businesses that have grown within the State. The Palaszczuk Government is unwavering in its support for this sector so good people can have good jobs and prosper in our great Queensland lifestyle.”

Explainer/fast fact and or further information:

Business Growth Fund details

The Business Growth Fund grants program targets high-growth businesses who can accelerate growth, drive Queensland’s economy, and employ more Queenslanders.

Grants between $50,000 and $75,000 are available for small to medium-sized businesses in this $2.5 million round of the Business Growth Fund.

The program provides funding for high-growth businesses to buy specialised equipment, enabling them to unlock growth potential, increase production, expand their workforce, and maximise economic returns to move them into the next stage of growth.

Expressions of interest can be submitted from Monday 8 May 2023 and will close at 5pm on Friday 2 June 2023.

Short-listed applicants will then be asked to provide a full application.

For more information and guidelines for the latest round of the Business Growth Fund, please go to www.business.qld.gov.au/growthfund  

Queensland Government support for small businesses

Since 2020, the Queensland Government has invested $2.5 billion to support small business to fuel the state’s economic recovery.

Over the past two years, we have supported the sector with more than $29.6 million in approved business grants.

More than $500 million in COVID-19 economic support was given to 55,000 businesses in 2020 and 2021.

Media contact – Gary Shipway 0458 090 906

  • Organisations
  • Employment, Small Business and Training

Business plan template

  • Download (134.5 KiB) (DOCX)

URL: https://www.publications.qld.gov.au/dataset/30775b7b-4198-4cef-9fef-8800d76648c6/resource/d5b824ef-8f97-49d2-be2f-1b88bde4d0e4/download/business-plan-template.docx

Template for use in creating a business plan

Additional Information

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Tourism Business Capability Subsidy—Round 2

The $2 million Tourism Business Capability Subsidy provides funding to eligible sole traders, micro, small and medium-sized tourism and event businesses in Queensland to undertake targeted training and/or accreditation programs.

Eligible businesses can choose from a number of identified programs aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.

Identified accreditation and training programs support key themes including sustainability and ecotourism, trade distribution, international visitor cultural understanding, first nations cultural awareness, tour guiding, improving tourism quality, accessible tourism, marinas, zoos and aquariums, and caravan/holiday parks.

The subsidy supports key actions in the Towards Tourism 2032 strategy's 'Talent and Skills' theme through targeted business capability development initiatives.

The key objectives of the subsidy are to:

  • increase the number of tourism and events businesses with recognised tourism accreditation
  • increase the capabilities of tourism and events businesses across targeted areas to improve visitor experiences.

Available funding

A subsidy of up to $2,000 (excluding GST) is available to eligible tourism and events businesses to support development in 1 or more of the below priority areas:

Accreditation

  • Training for trade/business development.

Eligible applicants do not have to co-contribute to the cost of approved training/accreditation activities however approved applicants will need to cover any costs above $2,000 (excluding GST).

The approved subsidy funding is reimbursed to the applicant once the accreditation and/or training has been completed.

The subsidy guidelines (PDF, 494KB) contain detailed information on applicant eligibility as well as the list of eligible accreditation/ training activities.

To be eligible for the subsidy, businesses must:

  • primarily operate in the tourism and events industry in Queensland or be a Queensland Local Government Authority with a tourism operation
  • employ fewer than 200 full-time equivalent employees
  • have an established operating base in Queensland
  • hold an Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • be registered for goods and services tax (GST).

Approved training and accreditation activities

Eligible applicants may choose to undertake 1 or multiple eligible training/accreditation activities from the list below.

Any costs above the maximum funding amount of $2,000 (excluding GST) needs to be covered by the applicant.

View the summary of all accreditation activity costs (PDF, 183KB) and training activity costs (PDF, 111KB) .

QTIC Tourism Accreditation Package

  • Sustainable Tourism program
  • Risk Management program
  • Accessible Tourism program.

QTIC Accommodation Accreditation Package

  • Star Rating program

Email: [email protected] Phone: (07) 3236 1445

Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard

ECO Certification (new applicants only):

  • Nature Tourism level
  • Ecotourism level
  • Advanced Ecotourism level.

Sustainable Tourism Certification (new applicants only):

  • Sustainable Tourism level
  • Advanced Sustainable Tourism level.

Renewals of existing Ecotourism Certification (already certified operators only):

  • ECO Certification
  • Respecting Our Culture Certification
  • Climate Action Certification
  • Sustainable Tourism Certification .

Email: [email protected] Phone: (07) 3256 6777

  • EarthCheck Evaluate
  • EarthCheck Certified

Email: [email protected] Phone: (07) 3924 4200

  • Caravan Industry Association of Australia National Accreditation Program
  • Risk Management and Business Operations Plan—Park Operations

Email: [email protected] Phone: (03) 9815 2015

Gold Anchor global marina accreditation :

  • self-assessed unrated 3-year participation
  • rated 3-year participation.

Clean Marina Program

Email: [email protected] Phone: (02) 9439 5806

View the accreditation costs (PDF, 183KB) .

Training Hub

  • Tourism Trade Ready
  • Domestic Ready
  • Accessible and Inclusive Host
  • Indonesia Host
  • Muslim Host
  • Digital marketing and your online shopfront for tourism
  • How to make sustainability your business

Email: [email protected] Phone: (02) 8262 5500

The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies online course (AIATSIS) through Savannah Guides— Cultural Awareness Training

Email: [email protected] Phone: 0408 772 513

  • EcoGuide Certification
  • EcoGuide Workshop

Tour Guiding Fundamentals training :

  • Cairns (10–13 July)
  • Brisbane (11–14 September)
  • Cairns (7–10 October)
  • Business On-Site Package.

Professional Guide Accreditation

Email: [email protected] Phone: 0438 361 664

Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA) :

  • accreditation preparation and Five Domains animal welfare assessment.

Email: [email protected] Phone: (02) 9978 4638

View the training costs (PDF, 111KB) .

Application, approval and subsidy process—Round 2

New applications for Round 2 will be awarded to eligible applicants in order of receipt. Incomplete applications will not be assessed until all required information is received.

The subsidy application and approval process is made up of 5 steps:

  • Apply for subsidy.
  • Department of Tourism and Sport (DTS) notifies of application outcome.
  • Applicant pays for approved activities.
  • Applicant completes approved activities.
  • Reimbursed up to $2,000 (excluding GST).

Applicants should research the eligible accreditation/training activities they are interested in undertaking and consider overall costs, time requirements and staff availability prior to submitting your application. Applicable costs for each accreditation/training activity are detailed in the application form.

Applicants need to submit their own applications. Application submissions from third parties are ineligible.

For any questions on the accreditation/training activities, contact the accreditation/training provider directly.

Key dates—Round 2

Note these dates are indicative only and may be subject to change. Round 2 will close when all available funds are exhausted, or at the discretion of DTS.

Applications are open.

Apply through the SmartyGrants portal

More information

  • Tourism Business Capability Subsidy guidelines (PDF, 494KB) .

For any questions on the subsidy, contact [email protected] .

  • Last reviewed: 15 May 2024
  • Last updated: 17 May 2024

How to Start a Small Business in 10 Steps

A woman learns how to start a small business in a floral shop.

Learn how to start a small business from scratch with expert guidance. Get essential tips and steps for launching your dream journey successfully.

qld gov small business plan

Brett Grossfeld

Share article.

Do you have a killer idea that you think would be perfect for launching a small business? If you believe what you see on TikTok, becoming an entrepreneur is just about as easy as posting a 30-second video. But in the real world, launching a small business can be a bit more challenging.

Starting a small business may seem daunting, but if you ask those same business owners if it’s worth the risk — few would trade the opportunity to shape their own destiny.

But where to start? Thankfully, you don’t need to have everything figured out before going out on your own. Successful small business owners are constantly learning from their mistakes — and improving their ideas and dreams along the way.

If you’re ready to take the leap and become a small business owner, keep reading.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

What is a small business, how much does it cost to start a small business, how to start a small business in 10 steps, what do you need to start a small business, start small — but think big.

Small businesses are generally defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as independent operations having fewer than 200 employees. And the majority of small businesses in the United States have fewer than five employees, according to the U.S. Census Bureau . 

But the number — or lack — of employees doesn’t necessarily define a “small business.” A business’s size can also be determined by the number of sales, the range of individual business locations, and other factors.

Along with size requirements, the SBA considers a company to be small if it’s:

  • Independently owned and operated
  • Not dominant in its field
  • Physically located and operated in the U.S. (or a U.S. territory)

If your company meets the SBA’s definition of a small business, many government programs offer resources and local assistance for you to turn your dreams into reality.

Start Your Small Business With Big Things

A small business owner uses technology and AI to prepare her inventory of boxes all around her in her office home.

Grow Your SMB All In One Platform

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If you’re skilled in a certain trade — say, bookkeeping — you can launch a business with almost no money . But if your idea needs to be fleshed out and developed by researchers, scientists, and engineers, your startup costs can run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars and beyond. But most startup costs fall somewhere in the middle. 

Factors that influence cost

A sole proprietor working from home is going to have very different startup costs than a Silicon Valley startup flush with venture capital funds. But it doesn’t matter if you have $1,000 or $1 million to launch your small business — you’ll need to have a budget.

Are you moving the clutter out of your garage to make room for a desk? Or are you going to hire an architect to remodel a warehouse space in a trendy neighborhood? Obviously, both businesses are going to have wildly different expenses.

Think about your budget and what you can afford to get started. And it’s good to assume that unexpected expenses will pop up along the way — especially in your first year of business.

What kinds of costs to expect

The SBA has a worksheet that will help you calculate typical expenses for a small business, including one-time expenses such as:

  • Rent : This includes security deposit, first month’s rent and utilities. If you’re working from home, you can deduct a percentage of your rent or mortgage on your taxes .
  • Improvement costs: Anything that you might spend on your physical place of business to make it suitable for work.
  • Inventory : If you’re selling a product, you’ll need goods to keep up with customer demand.
  • Employees : This includes payroll, payroll taxes, and health insurance.
  • Professional services: Accountants, lawyers, and consultants will all need to be paid
  • Supplies : Think office supplies, such as paper and pencils, and operating supplies, like computers and printers.
  • Marketing: Business cards, stationery, flyers, and advertising all fall under this category.
  • Miscellaneous : This includes licenses, permits, legal fees, signage, technology, and accounting software. Everything else — liability insurance, repairs, maintenance, and dues.

The most difficult part of starting a small business is committing to your vision. It’s easier if you break down the process into small, achievable goals. Here are 10 steps that will get you on your way:

1. Do your research

If you don’t do basic market research before you launch your business, you may be down for the count before you even get started. Ask neighbors, friends, and even your barista if they would be interested in your product or service — and ask how much they’d be willing to pay for it. 

Conduct competitor research, local and global searches, and even offer surveys to consumers to see what the need versus want ratio is. 

2. Write a business plan

A business plan is your roadmap; it helps guide you as you start and grow your company. If you need capital to get started, most investors will want to review a business plan before they commit to any financing. 

To organize your ideas, download and fill out a business plan template . A well-written business plan provides clarity, confirms the math, and helps you establish goals so your business has the best chance of success.

3. Choose a business name

Finding the perfect brand name is a vital step in launching a new business. But hiring a professional naming company doesn’t come cheap — it can cost as much as $100,000 , according to Fast Company. 

If that’s outside your budget, there are countless AI-powered business name generators available online, and Fiverr has entrepreneurs who will help brainstorm business names for three figures or less.

4. Decide on your location

Take a look at the taxes, zoning laws, and regulations in your location. You may find that operating your business in a different location could offer financial advantages. Review the fees, costs, and tax benefits of each state to see which location makes the most sense for your business . A strategic move may put you ahead of the game before you even open the doors.

5. Get your finances in order

Startup costs discourage many would-be entrepreneurs, but the reality is that many successful businesses got started with little more than a vision, discipline, and hard work. However, if you really need cash for that newly opened business bank account, here are four ways of getting that money:

  • Self-funding: If you have the means, you may use your own earnings to kickstart your business or see out financial counsel to work it into your budget.
  • Outside investors: For a stake in your company, relatives or venture capitalists may be willing to invest in your business.
  • Small business loans: If you want to keep full ownership of your business, a small business loan may be the way to go.
  • Crowdfunding: If you’re feeling creative and confident, try sites such as Kickstarter or GoFundMe to generate capital.

6. Take care of the legal stuff

Register your business in the state where it was formed — and make sure that you’re set up to pay state income and unemployment tax. Review whether your local municipality requires filing for a license or permit to operate your business. 

To satisfy Uncle Sam, apply for an EIN from the IRS . Confirm that no one else is using your business name by contacting your state filing office or online database. Some business structures require using a doing business as (DBA) name, and you may be required to open a business bank account.

7. Develop a marketing plan

Once you have a terrific name for your company locked down, you’ll want to create an online presence for your business. Be consistent on your social media channels , ideally creating accounts on the channels — meeting them online where they are. 

Develop a website that’s intuitive and filled with all the information your customers need. Your marketing may also include advertising campaigns and public relations.

8. Set up your CRM software

To enhance your marketing efforts and grow your small business, try customer relationship management ( CRM) for Small Business . This will be your solution for storing and managing prospect and customer information such as contact information, accounts, leads, and sales opportunities — all in one single source of truth. 

With Salesforce’s Starter Suite , you can start in minutes and easily manage your marketing, sales, and customer service as your business scales.

9. Launch your product or service

Congratulations: You’ve done all the hard work and you’re ready to introduce your product to the world. Make sure to announce your launch on social media — and consider throwing a media-friendly bash to celebrate.

10. Keep your customers happy

When you use CRM software, you can keep track and personalize support for all your customers. And happy customers are good for business — 80% of them say the experience a company provides is just as important as its products or services .

The United States has more than 33 million small businesses, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce , and that number represents 99.9% of all U.S. businesses. And most of those small businesses started the same way — with an entrepreneur and an idea. But it takes more than just a dream to launch a small business.

So, where to start?

It’s time to take some notes. First, start outlining your business plan. If you’re stuck, ask yourself these four questions when developing your plan :

  • Goals : What do you need to accomplish to achieve your vision?
  • Methods : What are the steps you need to follow to get you there?
  • Measurements : How will you determine when each objective has been met?
  • Obstacles : What could throw you off course along the way?

Once you’ve written a business plan and are feeling confident, you’re ready to establish:

A name for your business

A great business name should succinctly identify your company and its audience. Brainstorm and get feedback from friends, family, and potential customers. And before you fall in love with your new company name, make sure that an established business in your industry isn’t already using that name.

A location for your business

Choosing where to conduct business is one of the most important decisions you can make for your small business. While staying close to home may be your first instinct, a change of venue may prove to be financially advantageous.

A business structure

For tax purposes and protection of personal assets, you need to choose a business structure that offers the right balance of legal protections and benefits. Common business structures include sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), corporation, and cooperative.

A legal presence

If you want personal liability protection, legal protection, and tax benefits for your company, you’ll need to register your business with state and local governments.

Federal and state tax ID numbers

Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) works like a personal Social Security number, but for your business. You need an EIN to pay state and federal taxes for your company.

Licenses and permits

Whether your business needs to apply — and pay for — licenses and permits depends on your business activities, location, and government rules. Review regulations from city, state, and federal agencies.

A business bank account

Opening up a bank account exclusively for business use will help keep your personal finances separate, making life easier at tax time. There are several banks that will allow you to open a business checking account with a zero balance, but traditionally banks will require an opening deposit of anywhere from $1,000 to $25,000.

Start-up funds

Even if you open a business checking account with a zero balance, you’re going to want to have some funds to cover basic operating expenses. The SBA offers guidance on obtaining funding for your small business, including loans, grants, and investors.

Starting a new business may feel like a gamble, but business insurance will help you cover your bet. The right insurance policy will help protect you against accidents, natural disasters, and lawsuits.

You should also consider:

Customer relationship management

A CRM platform keeps your customer data organized and provides the foundation to build connected customer experiences (that can be made even better through artificial intelligence). Starting with a suite of sales, service, marketing, and commerce tools is easy.

Invoice and billing software

While it is possible to keep track of your financial records on a traditional paper ledger, modern invoice and billing software makes the process much, much easier.

A graphic designer

A well-designed logo can make or break a business. The Nike “swoosh” was created by a graphic design student — and the $35 Nike initially spent paid for itself many times over.

Many small businesses exist with just a presence on social media, but having a professionally designed website adds legitimacy to your business.

Marketing experts

Like graphic design, marketing expenses are costs that many small business owners initially want to avoid. But strategically investing in a marketing campaign can be a boon for a small business that wants to make noise in a crowded marketplace.

A Human Resources department

Once your business grows to a certain size, it’s time to create a human resources (HR) department — or, at least, to hire an HR professional. This professional can focus on things such as labor law compliance, employee recruitment, employee engagement and development, and compensation and benefits management while you manage your business.

An assistant

For most small businesses starting out, hiring an assistant to perform administrative and clerical duties is something of a luxury. If your budget is tight, consider a virtual assistant .

What are some popular small business ideas?

If you have a unique idea for a small business, great. But some of the best small business ideas build on your strengths and experience. What do you love to do? What lights you up when you are helping the community? Do you have a pull to do something more?

What are the odds that my small business will succeed?

Starting a small business is no guarantee of success. Approximately 80% of small businesses survive their first year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The survival rate decreases to 50% after five years and 30% after 10 years.

What are some Fortune 500 companies that started small?

Not all big companies started with millions of dollars in venture capital. Some of America’s biggest brand names had far more modest beginnings . Apple famously got started in a Silicon Valley garage, while Mattel was building dollhouse furniture from picture frame scraps in its early days.

What are the most business-friendly states?

Before setting up shop in New York or California, consider launching your small business in North Dakota, Indiana, Arkansas, South Dakota, or North Carolina. These states offer the best conditions to start a business , according to Forbes Advisor.

What can I deduct for my small business at tax time?

(Almost) everyone knows that you can deduct entertainment and travel expenses as a small business owner. But you can also deduct software subscriptions, office furniture, and interest on small business loans, according to NerdWallet .

Taking the leap to start your own small business is just the first step on your entrepreneurial path. But you’re in good company. Nearly half of all U.S. employees are employed by a small business — and more than 80% of those small businesses are solo ventures , according to Forbes Advisor. There’s no better time than the present to start turning your dreams into reality.

Want to grow your new small business? Sign up for a Salesforce free trial .

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Budget 2024-25 - home

Cost of living help and a future made in Australia

Investing in a future made in australia.

Investing in a Future Made in Australia and the skills to make it a reality

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Attracting investment in key industries

Making Australians the beneficiaries of change

A Future Made in Australia is about creating new jobs and opportunities for every part of our country by maximising the economic and industrial benefits of the move to net zero and securing Australia’s place in a changing global economic and strategic landscape.

The Government’s $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia package will help facilitate the private sector investment required for Australia to be an indispensable part of the global economy.

For more information refer to the Future Made in Australia fact sheet [PDF 438KB]

Better deploying capital in priority areas

The Future Made in Australia package will realise Australia’s potential to become a renewable energy superpower, value‑add to our resources and strengthen economic security by better attracting and enabling investment in priority areas. The Government will create a Future Made in Australia Act and establish a National Interest Framework that identifies priority industries and ensures investments associated with them are responsible and targeted.

The Framework will have a focus on industries that contribute to the net zero transformation where Australia has a comparative advantage, and where Australia has national interest imperatives related to economic resilience and security.

Strengthening and streamlining approvals

This Budget provides a faster pathway to better decisions on environmental, energy, planning, cultural heritage and foreign investment approvals.

This includes:

  • $134.2 million to better prioritise approvals for renewable energy projects of national significance, and support faster decisions on environment, cultural heritage and planning approvals.
  • Working with the states and territories through the Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council to accelerate electricity grid connections.
  • $20.7 million to improve engagement with communities impacted by the energy transition and accelerate the delivery of key energy projects.
  • $15.7 million to strengthen scrutiny of high‑risk foreign investment proposals, enhance monitoring and enforcement activities and support faster decisions.

The Government will also encourage foreign investment by providing refunds of 75 per cent of application fees for unsuccessful competitive bids.

Promoting sustainable finance

The Government is committing $17.3 million to mobilise private sector investment in sustainable activities. This includes extending Australia’s sustainable finance taxonomy to the agriculture sector and developing a labelling regime for financial products marketed as sustainable.

The Government will also examine opportunities to improve data quality and provide $1.3 million to develop and issue guidance for best practice transition plans.

Making Australia a renewable energy superpower

Powering australia with cheaper, cleaner, more reliable energy.

Australia’s potential to produce abundant renewable energy is a powerful source of comparative advantage. To realise this, the Government is unlocking more than $65 billion of investment in renewable capacity through the Capacity Investment Scheme by 2030.

This Budget helps Australians benefit from cheaper, cleaner energy sooner by investing $27.7 million to integrate consumer energy resources like batteries and solar into the grid.

The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will save Australians around $95 billion at the bowser by 2050 and reduce transport emissions.

Unlocking investment in net zero industries and jobs

This Budget accelerates growth of new industries by establishing the $1.7 billion Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund and delivering a 10‑year extension of funding to the Australian Renewable Energy Agency. It also delivers the $44.4 million Energy Industry Jobs Plan and $134.2 million for skills and employment support in key regions.

The Future Made in Australia package establishes time‑limited incentives to invest in new industries. The Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive will make Australia’s pipeline of hydrogen projects commercial sooner, at an estimated cost of $6.7 billion over the decade. This Budget also expands the Hydrogen Headstart program by $1.3 billion.

Boosting demand for Australia’s green exports

The Government is making it easier for businesses and trading partners to source low‑emissions products by building better markets and product standards for green products.

This Budget provides $32.2 million to fast‑track the initial phase of the Guarantee of Origin scheme, focused on renewable hydrogen, and bring forward the expansion of the scheme to accredit the emissions content of green metals and low‑carbon liquid fuels. The Government is also working closely with trading partners to identify opportunities to drive greater supply chain transparency and better market recognition of high environmental, social and governance standards in the critical minerals sector.

Realising the opportunities of the net zero transformation

Australia is committed to reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and is developing six sector plans covering:

  • electricity and energy
  • agriculture and land
  • the built environment.

This Budget continues investment in effective emissions abatement, including through $63.8 million to support emissions reduction efforts in the agriculture and land sector.

The Government is also investing $399 million to establish the Net Zero Economy Authority and support the economy‑wide net zero transformation. This Budget also invests an additional $48 million in reforms to the Australian Carbon Credit Unit scheme and $20.7 million to improve community engagement.

Strengthening resources and economic security

Backing a strong resources sector.

The Government is investing $8.8 billion over the decade to add more value to our resources and strengthen critical minerals supply chains. This Budget establishes a production tax incentive for processing and refining critical minerals at an estimated cost of $7 billion over the decade. It commits up to $1.2 billion in strategic critical minerals projects through the Critical Minerals Facility and the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, and pre‑feasibility studies for common user precincts.

This is in addition to $566.1 million to support Geoscience Australia to map all of Australia’s critical minerals, strategic materials, groundwater and other resources essential for the transition to net zero.

Manufacturing clean energy technologies

The Government is committing $1.5 billion to manufacturing clean energy technologies, including the $1 billion Solar Sunshot and $523.2 million Battery Breakthrough Initiative. These investments will be delivered by ARENA.

Strengthening supply chains

To support the delivery of the 82 per cent renewable energy target, the Government has formed the National Renewable Energy Supply Chain Action Plan with states and territories. The Government will invest an additional $14.3 million working with trade partners to support global rules on unfair trade practices and to negotiate benchmarks for trade in high quality critical minerals.

Digital, science and innovation

Investing in new technologies and capabilities.

The Government is investing $466.4 million to partner with PsiQuantum and the Queensland Government to build the world’s first commercial‑scale quantum computer in Brisbane.

The Government will undertake a strategic examination of Australia’s research and development (R&D) system with $38.2 million invested in a range of science, technology, engineering, and maths programs.

The Government is providing $448.7 million to partner with the United States in the Landsat Next satellite program to provide access to critical data to monitor the earth’s climate, agricultural production, and natural disasters.

Modernising and digitising industries

This Budget commits $288.1 million to support Australia’s Digital ID System. A National Robotics Strategy will also be released to promote the responsible production and adoption of robotics and automation technologies for advanced manufacturing in Australia.

Reforming tertiary education

The Government is committing $1.6 billion over 5 years, and an additional $2.7 billion from 2028–29 to 2034–35 to reform the tertiary education system and deliver Australia's future workforce.

This includes $1.1 billion for reforms to university funding and tertiary system governance.

Over $500 million will be provided for skills and training in priority industries and to support women’s participation in these sectors.

The Government will set a tertiary attainment target of 80 per cent of the working‑age population by 2050.

Supporting students on placements

The Government will establish Commonwealth Prac Payments (CPP) for students undertaking mandatory placements. From 1 July 2025, the payment will provide more than 73,000 eligible students, including teachers, nurses, midwives and social workers with $319.50 per week during their placements.

Felicity is a full‑time student receiving Youth Allowance, living by herself. She is studying a Bachelor of Nursing and must stop paid work during her mandatory prac placement. During her prac, Felicity receives $712.05 per week from the Government including: $319.50 of CPP, $285.55 of Youth Allowance (YA), $103.50 of Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) and $3.50 of Energy Supplement.

Felicity receives $351.55 a week more than she would have in 2023 before indexation and the changes to YA, CRA and CPP in the current and 2023–24 Budget

qld gov small business plan

Broadening access to university

From January 2026, needs‑based funding will provide per student funding contributions for under‑represented students. The Government will also provide $350.3 million to fully fund university enabling courses and increase pathways for prospective students to university.

Skills pipeline for priority industries

Skills and training for Future Made in Australia industries

The Government will expand eligibility to the New Energy Apprenticeships Program to include work in the clean energy sector, including in construction and advanced manufacturing. This will provide access to $10,000 incentive payments and support our target of 10,000 new energy apprentices.

The Government will commit $30 million to turbocharge the VET teaching workforce for clean energy courses and $50 million to upgrade and expand clean energy training facilities.

The Government will invest $55.6 million to establish the Building Women’s Careers program to support women’s participation in key industries including clean energy and advanced manufacturing.

Supporting apprentices and building the construction workforce

The $5,000 support payments to apprentices in priority occupations will be maintained for another 12 months to 1 July 2025, up from $3,000 in the absence of any changes. Employers of these apprentices will receive a $5,000 hiring incentive, up from $4,000 in the absence of changes. This will provide certainty to apprentices while the Strategic Review of the Apprenticeship Incentive System is underway.

The Government will also invest $88.8 million to deliver 20,000 new fee‑free TAFE places including pre‑apprenticeships in courses relevant to the construction sector. The Government will provide $1.8 million to deliver streamlined skills assessments for around 1,900 migrants from comparable countries to work in Australia’s housing construction industry.

Strengthening our defence industry capability

An integrated and focused approach to defending Australia

The Government is investing an additional $50.3 billion over ten years to implement the 2024 National Defence Strategy to meet Australia’s strategic needs.

Overall funding for Defence will reach $765 billion over the decade. Defence’s Integrated Investment Program has been rebuilt to create a focused Australian Defence Force, accelerate delivery of priority capabilities, and provide certainty to grow Australia’s defence industry. This includes funding for the Royal Australian Navy’s surface combatant fleet and establishing a guided weapons and explosive ordnance manufacturing capability earlier.

The Government is reforming Defence’s budget to support the National Defence Strategy and delivery of priority capabilities.

Developing defence industry and skills

Industry development grants funding of $165.7 million will also help businesses to scale up and deliver the Sovereign Defence Industrial Priorities, which include continuous naval shipbuilding and sustainment, and development and integration of autonomous systems.

The Government is providing $101.8 million to attract and retain the skilled industrial workforce to support Australian shipbuilding and delivery of conventionally armed, nuclear powered submarines. This includes a pilot apprenticeship program in shipbuilding trades and technologies.

Investing in civil maritime capabilities

The Government is providing $123.8 million to maintain and enhance civil maritime security capabilities. This includes $71.2 million to increase the Australian Border Force’s on‑water response and aerial surveillance capabilities.

Securing Australia’s place in the world

Strengthening relationships and simplifying trade

A stable, prosperous and resilient Pacific region

The Government is delivering over $2 billion in development assistance to the Pacific in 2024–25. This includes the Australia‑Tuvalu Falepili Union.

Investing in our relationship with Southeast Asia

Following the launch of Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, the Government is committing $505.9 million to deepen ties with the region.

Australia recently celebrated 50 years of partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). At the ASEAN‑Australia Special Summit, the Government announced a range of new and expanded initiatives, including a $2 billion Southeast Asia Investment Financing Facility to boost Australian trade and investment.

Simplifying trade

The Government will abolish 457 nuisance tariffs from 1 July 2024, streamlining $8.5 billion in annual trade and eliminating tariffs on goods such as toothbrushes, fridges, dishwashers, clothing and sanitary products.

The Government will provide $29.9 million to coordinate trade simplification and deliver the Digital Trade Accelerator program, and $10.9 million to enhance the Go Global Toolkit to support exporters.

The Government is expanding the Australia‑India Business Exchange, diversifying trade and helping more Australian businesses build commercial ties with India and across South Asia. There will be $2 million to support Australian agricultural exporters entering the Chinese markets.

Support for small businesses

Helping small businesses

This Budget’s Small Business Statement reaffirms the Government’s commitment to deliver a better deal for small businesses, with $641.4 million in targeted support.

For more information refer to the small business fact sheet [PDF 0.98MB]

Improving cash flow

The Government is providing $290 million to extend the $20,000 instant asset write‑off for 12 months. There will be $25.3 million to improve payment times to small businesses and $23.3 million to increase eInvoicing adoption.

Easing cost pressures and reducing the administrative burden

This Budget provides $3.5 billion of energy bill relief, including rebates of $325 to around one million small businesses.

The Government is reducing the administrative burden for small business by abolishing 457 nuisance tariffs and delivering $10 million to provide additional support for small business employers administering the Paid Parental Leave scheme.

Supporting confidence and resilience in the small business sector

This Budget invests a further $10.8 million in tailored, free and confidential financial and mental wellbeing supports for small business owners.

The Government is providing $20.5 million to the Fair Work Ombudsman to help small businesses understand and comply with recent workplace relations changes.

There will be $3 million to implement the Government’s response to the Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct, including remaking and enhancing the Code, and an additional $2.6 million to support more small businesses through alternative dispute resolution.

A more resilient Australia

Preparing for the future

The Government is preparing Australia for future droughts and heightened risk of natural disasters.

Disaster resilience and preparedness

The Government will provide $138.7 million to improve Australia’s response and resilience to natural hazards and disasters. Support includes: funding for the National Emergency Management Agency to supply communities with vital goods, equipment, and temporary accommodation during an emergency, aerial firefighting capability, and mental health support. This is in addition to the $11.4 billion previously committed for Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements for the states and territories.

The Government is establishing a pilot program for Australia’s Strategic Fleet. These vessels will improve Australia’s capacity to respond and support communities and supply chains during crises.

Preparing for drought and climate change

This Budget provides $174.6 million from the National Water Grid Fund to deliver new water infrastructure projects that will enhance water security, boost agricultural production and help drought proof regional communities.

The Government will provide $519.1 million from its Future Drought Fund to help farmers and rural communities manage the impacts of climate change and prepare for future droughts.

qld gov small business plan

This investment will build the drought resilience of more farmers like Victorian cropper Ed Rickard.

The Fund supported Ed in developing a better farm business plan, which identified his need for weather stations and soil moisture probes. It also helped him implement a succession plan that ensured his farm’s long-term viability.

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A composite image featuring treasurer Jim Chalmers

Australian federal budget 2024: what we know so far and what to expect

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has promised more cost-of-living relief in his 14 May budget as well as spending for students and health

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On 14 May the treasurer, Jim Chalmers, will deliver his second full-year budget.

Chalmers has promised more cost-of-living relief in a budget that he says tackles inflation but sets Australia’s economy up for growth – neither scorched-earth nor a free-for-all of spending .

Here’s what we know already about what is in the budget.

Tax cuts and cost of living

The biggest element of the cost-of-living relief in the budget is the changes to stage-three tax cuts, a $359bn 10-year tax cut package announced by Labor in January and legislated in February with opposition support.

The package means all Australian taxpayers (earning over the tax-free threshold of $18,200) get a tax cut, doubling the benefit for an average income earner compared with the Coalition’s original stage three proposal.

Labor says 84% of taxpayers are better off under its proposal, although those earning more than $146,486 would have received more under the Coalition’s model.

There will be other cost-of-living measures the government claims won’t add to inflation, which might point towards extending energy price relief .

Jim Chalmers has poured cold water on the Economic Inclusion Advisory Committee’s call for jobseeker to rise to 90% of the age pension, although he and the finance minister, Katy Gallagher, have seemed more open on increasing rent assistance. Chalmers has confirmed there will be “additional steps” on poverty reduction and “new initiatives for housing”.

Education, skills and Hecs

The government will wipe $3bn from student debts by indexing Hecs and Help debts to the lower of the consumer price index or the wage price index, backdated to June 2023.

The government will also pay student teachers, nurses, midwives and social workers $320 a week during their mandatory work placements , starting from July 2025. These two measures are aspects of the government’s response to the Universities Accord, but there will be more in the budget.

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The government has announced $90.6m to boost the number of skilled workers in the construction and housing sector, creating 15,000 fee-free Tafe places and 5,000 places for pre-apprenticeships.

School funding will also rise as the federal government negotiates with the states to cover the 5% funding gap, most recently offering to lift its share of funding from 20% to 22.5%. This is estimated to cost $6bn over five years, although Chalmers has been coy about whether estimates will be reflected in the budget or only be added after education and health agreements are finalised.

There is no question childcare workers will be receiving a pay rise in this budget – the only questions are how much and how it will be distributed. With the industry in crisis due to staffing shortages, which have been exacerbated by staff leaving to work in aged care after that sector’s pay rise win , the government is expected to make wage increases for childcare workers a centre piece of the budget.

But it’s unclear whether the government will pull the trigger on scrapping the activity test, which sets a subsidy rate based on employment. It has indicated it wants to get rid of the measure as part of its plan to make childcare in Australia “universal”, though it’s not clear whether it will happen in this budget.

Health and aged care

Public hospitals are expected to get more funding, as the federal government works to finalise a new five-year agreement with the states to start in mid-2025. The commonwealth has reportedly offered to lift funding by an extra $4bn in 2025-26 and $13bn over the whole five years.

The government is also increasing funding for its medical research future fund over 13 years, with $1.1bn for existing projects plus $150m million to investigate rarely survived cancers, and $150m towards reducing inequalities in the health system. A further $500m will go to other research schemes.

The government is also yet to outline its response to March’s aged care taskforce report , which suggested new ways to pay for the system – including asking Australians with more wealth to pay more for the cost of their care.

The health minister, Mark Butler, also announced $49.1m would go toward offering longer consultations of 45 minutes or longer for endometriosis sufferers.

Among a total of $15.4bn in “unavoidable spending” to continue programs from the previous government is money set aside for palliative care, cancer supports, public health chronic conditions, and alcohol and other drug treatments.

Defence and foreign affairs

The budget will confirm that Australia’s defence spending will increase from 2.1% of Australia’s economic output next financial year to 2.4% by 2033-34, driven by a range of big-spending projects including the Aukus nuclear-powered submarines.

There will be some cuts to programs, however, with the government announcing last month that it would free up about $73bn over 10 years by cutting, delaying or changing the scope of some defence projects.

Even after these cuts are taken into account, the government says it has committed a net increase of $50.3bn for defence over the next 10 years. This includes a net increase of $5.7bn over the immediate four-year budget cycle.

This immediate funding includes $1bn over the next four years for long-range strike, targeting and autonomous systems.

In foreign affairs, the government has promised $492m for the Asian Development Fund’s 2025-28 pledging round, to “help respond to the needs of the region and deliver transformative development projects across the Indo-Pacific”.

Infrastructure

So far, western Sydney is the biggest winner in infrastructure after the minister, Catherine King, announced $1.9bn in funding for 14 road and transport projects. Those include road upgrades, planning projects and extra money for a business case to extend the train line into the city’s south-west.

Cyclists will also get a boost with $100m being set aside to build and upgrade bicycle and walking lines in cities and regional centres.

Canberra will also get a $50m injection to extend its light rail line from the northern suburbs past Parliament House and into the city’s south.

The nation’s capital are getting a good deal because $249.7m has also been announced for Australian Institute of Sport as the 2032 Brisbane Olympics inches closer.

The quarter of a billion-dollar sum will go towards refreshing the ageing site with new accommodation, an all-weather sports dome and a new training centre.

Beyond Canberra, road safety data from the states and territories will also be better harmonised with a $21m funding announcement to set up a national data hub.

Future Made in Australia

The government has announced funding for a range of projects under its Future Made in Australia policy, which aims to directly support Australian industry and innovation, particularly in green energy. These commitments include:

$1bn for the Solar Sunshot production of solar panels in the Hunter

$1bn to PsiQuantum to build the world’s first fault tolerant quantum computer in Brisbane

$840m for Arafura’s rare earth metals production in the Northern Territory

An export agreement to sell armoured vehicles made by the German defence manufacturer Rheinmetall

$566m over 10 years for GeoScience Australia to map what is under Australia’s soil and seabed

$400m in new loans to Alpha HPA for Australia’s first high-purity alumina processing facility in Queensland; and

$185m to Renascor Resources to fast-track the development of stage one of its Siviour Graphite Project in South Australia; and

$100m to speed up environmental approvals, including assistance for business.

Gender equality

The government has committed $925m for the leaving violence payment, a payment of $5,000 to help meet the costs of leaving a relationship. The existing trial will be extended and the new permanent program available from mid-2025.

The government has also said that parents will receive 12% superannuation – or about $106 a week – on their publicly funded paid parental leave from July 2025, full costings for which will be in the budget.

Indigenous affairs

The government has not foreshadowed any new major spending commitments in the Indigenous affairs space, but the budget will contain details and funding for several large programs in that portfolio that were recently unveiled.

The Closing The Gap commitments from February, including a $700m remote jobs program, and March’s announcement of a $4bn remote housing program for the Northern Territory, are expected to be the major components of the Indigenous affairs portfolio. Most of the new commitments in Indigenous affairs are typically contained in February’s Closing The Gap document rather than the May budget.

Attorney General’s Department

The government has pledged $161.3m to establish the national firearms register , and $11m for an app alerting Australians in real time if somebody tries to use their data to commit fraud.

The government will invest $166.4m to implement reforms to Australia’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regime.

  • Australian budget 2024
  • Australian politics
  • Australian economy
  • Jim Chalmers (Australian politician)
  • Cost of living crisis
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  1. How to create a business plan for a small business

    qld gov small business plan

  2. Business Plan Template

    qld gov small business plan

  3. FREE 26+ Sample Small Business Plan Templates in Google Docs

    qld gov small business plan

  4. Business Plan Template Qld

    qld gov small business plan

  5. The Queensland Government wants to hear from small businesses

    qld gov small business plan

  6. Small Business Plan Templates

    qld gov small business plan

VIDEO

  1. Growing Small Businesses

  2. Internet Marketing For Small Business

COMMENTS

  1. Writing a business plan

    The sections of our business plan template are listed below—use these as a guide when completing it or as a reference when creating your own. Expand all. Business details. 1. Executive summary. 2. Product, service and market analysis. 3. Marketing strategy and plan.

  2. Business planning

    Running a business. Business planning. Find out how to create a plan for your new or current business, including writing the plan and operational documents, and setting goals. Start your planning by: watching the writing a business plan video. downloading the business plan template. watching our small business planning webinar recording.

  3. Starting a business

    Small business hotline: 1300 654 687. General enquiries: 13 QGOV ( 13 74 68) Find what you need to know to help you start your business in Queensland.

  4. Home

    Phone the Small Business Hotline on 1300 654 687 for information on support programs, grants and services for Queensland small businesses. Start your business Business Launchpad

  5. Business Growth Fund Program

    Your business must be an established, financially sound, small to medium-sized Queensland business with the potential for high-growth within the next 2 years. ... provide a copy of the related business plan, which should include: ... email [email protected] or contact the Small Business Hotline on 1300 654 687. Last reviewed: 15 May 2024 ...

  6. Big Plans for Small Business Strategy 2021-23

    The Big Plans for Small Business Strategy 2021-23 is focused on building a small business sector that helps drive economic recovery and employment across Queensland. ... [email protected]: Maintainer: [email protected]: Last Updated: May 10, 2022, 10:23 (AEST) Created: June 11, 2021, 14:49 (AEST) Contact us; Help ...

  7. Small business

    Programs, initiatives and campaigns. Support for Queensland small businesses to start, grow and employ.

  8. Big Plans for Small Business Strategy 2021-2023.pdf

    The Big Plans for Small Business Strategy aims to help small businesses to thrive and will run until June 2023. Big Plans for Small Business Strategy 2021-2023.pdf - Big Plans for Small Business Strategy 2021-23 - Publications | Queensland Government

  9. Queensland Small Business Commissioner (QSBC)

    1300 312 344. Address: Level 18, 53 Albert Street, Brisabne, Queensland. Website: Queensland Small Business Commissioner (OQSBC) Online enquiry form.

  10. Resources

    Resources. We constantly monitor available resources, including information and support services, that may assist you with operating a small business in Queensland.

  11. Small businesses invited to have their say

    The new Small Business Strategy is due to be released in 2023. To access information and support for small businesses now, visit www.business.qld.gov.au, follow Business Queensland on Facebook or call the Small Business Hotline 1300 654 687. ENDS. Media contact: Nicola Field - 0497 940 285.

  12. Department of Employment, Small Business and Training

    The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training manages the portfolios of employment, small business, and training and skills development. ... Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032 is our 10-year plan for a strong, ... Jobs in Queensland Government;

  13. Queensland Small Business Month kicks off with $2.5 million business

    The Palaszczuk Government's flagship small business event in May, Queensland Small Business Month 2023 has been launched with the opening of the $2.5 million Business Growth Fund offering grants of up to $75,000. ... Queensland Small Business Month will see events held from the Northern Peninsula Area to the Southern Gold Coast and include ...

  14. Develop your business plan

    A business plan sets you up for success when you start, and helps you adapt as your business grows. ... There are a number of government services available to help you plan, start or grow your business. These services can provide general advice, workshops, seminars and networking events, and can even match you with a mentor or business coach. ...

  15. Business plan template

    Business plan template - Business plan template - Publications | Queensland Government. Download (134.5 KiB) (DOCX)

  16. Tourism Business Capability Subsidy—Round 2

    The $2 million Tourism Business Capability Subsidy provides funding to eligible sole traders, micro, small and medium-sized tourism and event businesses in Queensland to undertake targeted training and/or accreditation programs. Eligible businesses can choose from a number of identified programs aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.

  17. Start a Small Business With These 10 Steps

    To organize your ideas, download and fill out a business plan template. A well-written business plan provides clarity, confirms the math, and helps you establish goals so your business has the best chance of success. 3. Choose a business name. Finding the perfect brand name is a vital step in launching a new business.

  18. Lender Ready Business Plan: Building the Financials

    Event description. In this webinar, we will dive into financial forecasting and discuss how to craft projections that meet the needs of lenders. You will walk away with an understanding of sourcing the projections and what they say about the viability of your business. Register. In this webinar, we will dive into financial forecasting and ...

  19. Investing in a Future Made in Australia

    This Budget accelerates growth of new industries by establishing the $1.7 billion Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund and delivering a 10‑year extension of funding to the Australian Renewable Energy Agency. It also delivers the $44.4 million Energy Industry Jobs Plan and $134.2 million for skills and employment support in key regions.

  20. Business Planning Workshop

    Event description. Join us for our business planning workshop. We will discuss the basic sections of business plans and how to write a successful one. We will also take a look at different business plan examples and conclude with an introduction to Liveplan.com, an online platform which will help you write your plan, develop financial reports ...

  21. Australian federal budget 2024: what we know so far and what to expect

    $100m to speed up environmental approvals, including assistance for business. Gender equality. The government has committed $925m for the leaving violence payment, a payment of $5,000 to help meet ...

  22. PDF Queensland

    At the 2024-25 Budget, the Australian Government has committed over $2.3 billion to support the delivery of existing projects. Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line The Australian Government is committed to focusing on delivering nationally significant land transport projects in partnership with the Queensland Government.