How to Start a Business in Australia- A Complete Checklist 2025

Starting a new business can be a daunting task, but it can also be very rewarding. Whether you're a new entrepreneur or a seasoned professional looking to expand your horizons, this guide can walk you through the essential steps on How to start a business in Australia. So grab a pack of Tim Tams and let's dive right in!

Why Do Most Startups Fail?

Before getting to know the startup checklist, every beginner should learn why most startups fail. More often than not, startups fail because of just one small misstep, one minor detail overlooked by the entrepreneur. And, it’s too late when they realise. But you’re here to succeed, right? So, make sure you read till the end so you don’t make the same mistake. 

Let’s first get into the most common reasons that lead startups to failure:

Lack of Product-Market Fit (No Customers)

This is the most prevalent reason why startups fail. People often rush to bring their ideas to fruition. Even when those ideas are the product of chugging 2 bottles of vodka down the throat during a late-night drinking session with friends and family. But, if there’s no demand for the product or service that your startup is offering, who are you going to sell it to? This may seem obvious, but many startups still make the mistake of not understanding their target market. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct market research before you start building on your ideas. 

Running Out Of Cash

Okay, let’s be honest here! Neither you nor we have an infinite sum of money to invest. Even Elon Musk was running out of cash and nearly lost everything when Tesla and SpaceX were still in their developmental phase. This is another common reason for startup failure. Startups often burn through cash quickly. And if you don't have enough money to keep the business running for years without any profit, the probability of failure is higher.

Poor Execution

Now, even if a startup has a great product or service and enough money to keep the business running, it can still fail if it is not executed well. This can include things like making bad decisions and not marketing the product or service effectively. Also, the influence of bad people and not hiring the right employee can plummet productivity.

Competition

Let’s look at some stats; a total of 375,700 new business registrations were reported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in the 2020-21 financial year. But in their first year alone, 75,140 startup businesses ceased to exist as they couldn’t compete. The startup world is very competitive, and even the best startups can fail.  That is why a detailed competition analysis is required to select the competitive target audience. 

Bad Timing

It pains us to say but sometimes, startups fail simply because they are not launched at the right time. For example, a startup that launches a new product or service just before a recession is more likely to fail. Similarly, there are a lot of scenarios where a newly launched product fails miserably. 

Checklist for Starting a Business in Australia

Now that we have known why startups fail, let’s go over the more encouraging part.  A complete checklist for starting a business more efficiently in Australia. 

Business plan: A solid business plan serves as a roadmap for your startup. It outlines your objectives, target market, competition, and financial projections.

Business structure: Decide on the legal structure that suits your business, such as sole trader, partnership, company, or trust. 

Business Name Registration: Your business name is crucial for branding and recognition. Make sure it aligns with your products or services and doesn't infringe on any existing trademarks.

Australian Business Number (ABN) Registration: An ABN is a unique 11-digit identifier for all Australian businesses and organisations. It's essential for tax purposes and enables you to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST), if applicable.

Tax Registration: Familiarise yourself with the tax obligations and registrations required for your business. These may include GST, Pay As You Go (PAYG) withholding, Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT), and more.

Licenses and Permits: Some industries require specific licenses or permits to operate legally. Research the requirements for your industry and ensure you obtain all the necessary approvals.

Business Bank Account: It is essential to keep your personal and business finances separate. Open a business bank account to manage your finances efficiently and track your business expenses.

Business Insurance: Developing a comprehensive insurance business plan can safeguard your business and its assets. Consider general liability insurance, professional indemnity insurance, and workers' compensation insurance, among others.

Steps to Start a Business in Australia

Now that you have your checklist in hand, let's look at the step-by-step process of starting a business in Australia:

Step 1: Do Comprehensive Research & Market analysis

As mentioned above, conducting thorough market research should be the first step in any entrepreneur’s endeavour. It helps you to identify your target audience, competitors, and unique selling points. Understand your product or service demand and refine your business idea accordingly.

Step 2: Choose a Business Name & Register it

Select a catchy and memorable name that resonates with your brand. Make sure to also check the availability of the name in Australian business records. Also, check for the domain name registration as your business might need a website to promote products and services.

Step 3: Determine your Business Structure

Evaluate the pros and cons of different business structures and choose the one that best suits your needs. You can consult with official business registrars on this to have more ideas on different business structures. 

Step 4: Register for an ABN and taxes

Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) through the official government website. This enables you to register for GST if your annual turnover exceeds the threshold. Also, familiarise yourself with tax obligations and consider consulting a tax professional for guidance.

Step 5: Complete the Necessary Registrations

Depending on your business activities, you may need to register for other taxes, such as PAYG withholding or FBT. Additionally, certain industries may require specific licenses or permits. Research and complete these registrations accordingly.

Step 6: Set Up Your Business Location & Infrastructure

Find a suitable location for your business operations. This could be a physical storefront, office space, or even a home-based setup. Set up the necessary infrastructure, including utilities, equipment, and technology, to support your business operations.

Step 7: Develop a Marketing & Branding Strategy

Create a strong brand identity and develop a marketing strategy to promote your products or services. Utilise digital marketing channels, such as social media, search engine optimisation (SEO), and content marketing, to reach your target audience effectively. You can look for a digital marketing agency residing in Australia to get help in finding your target audience. 

Step 8: Hire Employees or Contractors (if necessary)

Understand that your employees are the heart of your business. So, it is crucial to recruit the best individuals for your startup. Start by determining your staffing needs and begin recruiting qualified individuals to join your team. Ensure compliance with employment laws, such as providing fair wages, maintaining a safe work environment, and adhering to anti-discrimination regulations.

Step 9: Establish Business Management Systems

Implement accounting software or hire an accountant to help you manage your finances. Set up bookkeeping processes, track your income and expenses, and establish a system for invoicing and payment collection. You can perform all these operations in one robust point-of-sale (POS) system by POSApt. Whether you’re starting a business in the hospitality industry or retail, A POS system can streamline your sales process, track inventory, and provide valuable insights into your business performance. Depending on your business niche, you might also need an online ordering system to take your business online. 

Step 10: Create a Sales & Customer Service Strategy

Develop a sales strategy to generate revenue and acquire customers. The happiness of your customers is what’s going to power your business in the long run. So, strive to provide exceptional customer service and build strong relationships with your customers.

Step 11: Don’t Forget To Monitor Everything

After the first few years and once the startup starts getting the attention it deserves, business owners tend to become complacent in their success and stop paying attention to their businesses. Note that, the moment you start to feel like everything’s alright, that’s when things start to crumble. So, don’t forget to keep your business operations in check and keep monitoring sales, customer feedback, and everything in between. 

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it! You’ve just read through all the steps on how to start a business in Australia and the things you need to avoid. Just remember, the key is to plan and execute all the steps effectively and carefully.  Follow the above steps, stay on top of things, and get ready for an exciting adventure Down Under. Your Australian business journey awaits!

Related Blogs: 

How to Start a Flower Business in Australia

How to Start a Food Business in Australia

FAQs

What business will be profitable in 2025?

Here are the most promising businesses to be profitable in 2025: 

1. Technology
2. Healthcare
3. Education
4. E-commerce
5. Food and beverage

Is 2025 a good year to start a business in Australia?

Whether or not 2025 is a good year to start a business depends on a number of factors. Some of these are the industry you're in, your personal financial situation, and your risk tolerance. But, with the right set of plans and great perseverance, anyone can make 2025 a good year to start their business. 

How to start a business as a teenager with no money?

While it can be challenging, starting a business without money is possible. Consider bootstrapping, seeking grants or funding opportunities, bartering services, or partnering with investors who believe in your business idea. Additionally, explore low-cost or home-based business options to minimise initial expenses.

*DISCLAIMER: This article is for general information only. POSApt does not guarantee accuracy, completeness, or specific results from following this advice. Consider consulting business professionals for tailored guidance.