Career competencies
Try the short quiz, Are you really ready to go into business?, and receive a Business Readiness report with feedback on what action to take next.
Find out how suitable you are for business and self-employment by answering questions at Are You Ready?
If you find that don't have the skills required to operate a small business, then it's time to seriously open yourself up to further training. Small Business Skills provides small business people with easy access to the learning and skills development opportunities that are available in Western Australia to Starting, Maintaining or Growing in small business.
A work experience placement may also assist you to develop your repertoire of skills. The Centre for Work Experience can link you to employers who are interested in offering opportunities for skill development.
Background information
Occupational labour markets
Locate information about rates, awards and conditions of employment for jobs, traineeships and apprenticeships in various industry sectors at Wagenet. Just follow the link for WA.
If you want to understand you local area better, the Labour Market Information Portal provides labour market information that can help.
Find career profiles and a whole lot more at the Australian Government’s Department of Education, Science and Training site Job Guide. Great for young people!
For loads of information about different careers, including educational requirements, job prospects, training and employment options and links to more information, check out WestOne Services' GetAccess.
You’ll find facts about job prospects, weekly earnings, type of work and other useful occupational information at Job Outlook.
Education and training
You’ll find easy access to learning and skills development opportunities that are available in Western Australia on the Small Business Skills website. There’s information on how to Starting, Maintaining and Growing in small business.
If you’re interested in going to university, try Universities in WA. It has information on courses, admission procedures, support services and more.
TAFEWA offers a large number of courses and qualifications related to small business. Use the search function to find small business opportunities all over WA.
At Apprenticeships and Traineeships you’ll find information on how to go about employing an apprentice or a trainee. You can also find out about the range of apprenticeships and traineeships available.
WestOne Services is an entry point into training and job search information. It offers access to vocational education and training – online. You can also find out about developing new skills and training opportunities.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry also offers training courses in a range of industry sectors.
If you live in rural WA and can’t attend a major centre for training, check out your local Telecentre.
Primary industries and utilities
Interested in the agricultural industry? Find out what’s happening in this sector at the WA Department of Agriculture. There's heaps of information about agriculture in WA. Plant yourself there for a while.
Western Australia is one of the most productive and diversified mineral and petroleum regions in the world. The Department of Industry and Resources is a mine of information.
The Department of Fisheries WA is responsible for the management of WA's fish, marine and aquatic resources and pearling industry, and the protection and conservation of the various related ecosystems. It's worth swimming around here for a while.
Set up to support an environmentally sustainable and commercially viable forest products industry, WA Forest Products Commission assists in providing economic and social benefits to the people of WA. There's plenty of information here about timber and the timber industry. Wood you like to have a look?
Agribusiness Online manages publications for the Agribusiness Association of Australia‘s Agri-Food sector. It has a wide variety of information on the agricultural production scene. It will grow on you.
What a crop of information the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation site has to offer! You can find out about developments in new and established agricultural products here. Check it out! You'll be amazed at what it yields.
You’ll find lots of information and issues affecting the farming community nationally on the National Farmers Federation site. If you are interested in farming, it's worth grazing around here for a while.
The WA Office of Energy provides energy policy advice to the WA Government and coordinates economic and commercial matters in the energy sector. It also regulates related technical and safety factors. It's a buzz!
If you’re interested in the mining, resources and energy sector, check out the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources. It's a gas!
The Rio Tinto website has plenty of information and views about mining and resource development in WA. You’ll dig it!
For information about research, developments and innovations – plus news, links and publications all to do with the mining industry – why not explore CSIRO Mining and Minerals?
The Mining and Petroleum Info Page has current news and information about exploration and mining issues. It also has a huge list of products and people in their Industry Directory. If you are keen on mining you'll probably feel the earth move when you check out this site.
CSIRO Energy Technology looks at how the generation and consumption of energy and power affects Australia and Australians. In particular, they investigate ways in which processes can be made more efficient and better for the environment. Feel the power here!
The Water Corporation is responsible for providing water and wastewater services to Perth and hundreds of towns and communities spread over 2.5 million square kilometres. They also provide drainage and irrigation services to thousands of households, businesses and farms across the State. Tap into this site for a while.
Verve Energy owns and operates coal, gas, oil, wind, solar and biomass power stations which can cater for 75% of the state’s energy needs. It may spark your interest.
Manufacturing, transport and construction
CSIRO Manufacturing and Infrastructure Technology is a fascinating website that focuses on developments and innovations in manufacturing and infrastructure industries. There's even an online magazine that you can download with heaps of articles relevant to the building and construction and manufacturing scenes. Build on your understanding with this information.
There are truckloads of information about training opportunities and other matters to do with this industry at the Transport and Storage Industry Training Council. Take a drive around their website.
The Building and Construction Industry Training Council has plenty of information about training in the building and construction industry. There could be some great opportunities to build your skills.
Get the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union perspective on what's going on in the manufacturing sector. And you won't need a ticket to have a look.
Find plenty of information on investment opportunities and possible directions for the manufacture of a wide range of products at the WA Department of Industry and Resources. See what you can make of it.
The Chemistry Centre of WA is the premier analytical chemistry facility in WA providing high quality independent chemical information and advice. Plenty of good chemistry on this site.
The National Association of Women in Construction is a new national site for women working in the construction industry (traditionally a blokes' domain).
Check out Main Roads WA for information about all facets of road transport issues. Take a ride on this part of the information superhighway.
Hospitality and culture
Restaurant and Catering Australia takes you to the WA branch of this National Industry Association. Check out the Industry Facts and Figures from the menu tabs to get a national perspective on this industry. It will also give you a few tips.
ArtsWA promotes the arts as integral to the social, economic and cultural vitality of the Western Australian community. There's plenty of information here to brush up against – or even to dance about!
Want to find out about the natural beauty and wonders of our state, and sporting and cultural events? You should definitely take a tour at Tourism Western Australia.
Interested in tourism investment in WA? The WA Department of Industry and Resources offers information about coming and possible developments in the regions. Another tour worth taking.
There’s plenty of industry information from those involved in the union movement at the Australian Liquor, Hospitality, Miscellaneous Workers Union. Check out the menu.
The Department of Sport and Recreation WA aims to get Western Australians participating and achieving in sport and recreation. You’ll find plenty of links and information about sport and recreation industries in WA. You can work up a sweat just looking at this one.
ScreenWest is Western Australia's film funding and development agency dedicated to the growth and promotion of film and television activity in this State. They provide leadership, support and services to advance WA as an internationally recognised centre for screen production. Just the thing for those who are into celluloid.
Business and finance
The Department of Industry and Resources provides both financial and non-financial assistance to support the economic development initiatives of its clients for a range of activities. Business Assistance Schemes plugs you into a huge range of schemes and opportunities for those in business. If you’re in business, it could make cents to check this out.
If you want information about small business, the Small Business Development Corporation is a great starting point! A WA Government agency, it focuses on the development of the small business sector and is committed to championing the cause of small business and developing programs and services to meet the needs of small business development. You could develop some good insights here.
Australian Business Ltd is a useful NSW site to check out. You'll find loads of information in their library. It’s member-based but free to join. There’s good information about employment laws, financial management and the latest economic trends. Make it your business to check this site out.
The Real Estate Institute of WA is an industry association that has 80% of real estate agents as members. There’s a wide range of information about the real estate industry here. Have a look over their back fence.
The Australian Trade Commission helps Australians win export business and generate inward and outward investment. Check out what's happening in the world of trade and the opportunities that are opening up.
The Telecentre Network has given people in regional WA access to the opportunities and services which are taken for granted in urban Australia but are often missing in the bush because of isolation and long distances. There's plenty of resources at the Telecentres. So forget the telly and visit a Telecentre.
Women in Information Technology is Queensland based but networks women across Australia and internationally. It provides some good links, networking, support, mentoring (which is really useful) and many other bits and pieces. They welcome male surfers too.
Government and education
The WA Government website is the entry point into a vast array of information about government departments and services. You may be surprised how many services are on offer at this site.
The WA Department of Training is committed to providing lifelong training and employment opportunities for Western Australians. They are responsible for planning the long-term development of the state’s training system to meet current and future needs of industry, the community and regional areas. In other words, this site has wheelbarrow loads of information about training in WA.
Thinking of picking up some government contracts, big or small? WA Government Contracting Information is your chance to benefit from Government out-sourcing. It's worth keeping an eye on this site.
The Department of Consumer and Employer Protection is committed to promoting a fair and competitive environment for both businesses and consumers. This website contains information and advice about the rights and responsibilities of consumers, traders and businesses under the WA fair trading laws. Thinking of starting out in small business? Don’t forget this useful site.
Providing the WA community with a comprehensive range of fire and emergency services, the Fire and Emergency Services Authority gives you insight into what’s happening in this sector. This one's pretty hot.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs contains information and resources for returned service personnel and their families. Non-veterans will find this site interesting too.
There’s a heap of information on environmental issues and associated businesses, including conservation and tourism at the Department of Conservation and Land Management. While this shortcut into their site takes you straight to the information about available employment opportunities, there’s loads of other information to explore too.
For access to information about students, staff, schools and the educational and other services in WA, try the Department of Education WA.There's plenty to learn here.
The School of Isolated and Distance Education aims to improve learning outcomes through the development and provision of quality educational services and opportunities for isolated students. Educate yourself about what's going on out there.
This shortcut into the WA Department of Education and Training site takes you to an array of links to training courses and training providers. With hundreds of training providers and thousands of courses, there's plenty to keep you busy here. You'll find the TAFE colleges listed here under Public Training Providers. Train your thoughts on this one.
For all the information you need about apprenticeships and traineeships that are available, have a look at Apprenticeships and Traineeships. There's also information for employers. It might be a good idea to spend some time here.
Health and community services
Hoping for a healthier, longer and better life? Or just interested in what’s going on in the health sector? You’ll find plenty of information and other links on health matters at the Department of Health WA. In fact, there's more information than you can sneeze at.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare gives you some interesting data on employment in this sector. It has statistics on a range of professions within the healthcare industry – such as general or specialist medical, nursing, pharmacy, dental, physiotherapy and so on. Open it up and say aargh!
The Disability Services Commission aims to make a positive difference to the lives of people with disabilities in WA. It provides a range of direct services and support and also funds many non-government agencies to provide services to people with disabilities, their families and carers. Keep yourself informed here.
Remember that volunteering is a great way of building networks, getting yourself back into circulation socially, sharpening up blunt skills and developing a range of new skills. At Volunteering Western Australia you’ll find lots of information about being a volunteer, a good way to find out what’s going on in different industry sectors. Why not volunteer to check out the website?
Community information
Looking for information on the labour market in regional WA? The Department of Local Government and Regional Development can help. Follow the Regional Development link, then Indicators of Regional Development. Statistical Information can be found under Quick Links. If you live outside of the metro area, this is for you.
Local Shire Councils are a great source of information about the local economy and future developments.
At the Labour Market Information Portal there’s labour market information that will help you to better understand your local area.
Most small and rural communities have a Telecentre which can provide details about their local community and links to other sources of information. Drop in for a while.
For more information about Regional Economic Perspectives, check out the Statistics and Economics link at the WA Department of Industry and Resources which provides the latest available data about the economic profile of each Western Australian region.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry can give you insight into the state of the local economy, labour market and future directions for the community. A good perspective to get.
For interesting labour market information on regional employment issues, options and trends have a look at the WA Department of Education and Training website. It also has links to other resources.
There are also regional newspapers to read. Most of these have a web version, but you might also find many of these papers freely available at your local library or even your local café.
Check out the local Community Newspaper for information about economic trends and initiatives, and, business and employment opportunities.
The local Tourist Information/Visitor Centre is an informative source for local services, businesses and employment opportunities. It’s worth a visit.
For local news on rural communities and information about rural economics, try the ABC. You’ll even find links to local radio broadcasts.
Many regions also have a website to promote their area. Mysouthwest is an innovative website by the South West Development Commission with information about all aspects of the South-West region of WA. Great labour market information can be found here.
Fremantle Focus is an informative website by the Fremantle Chamber of Commerce with details about all aspects of life in Fremantle. You’ll find great labour market information collected here. Cruise by the site and dock in for a while.
Now here's a great website, with heaps of local labour market information about the Malaga District – Perth's fastest growing strategic industrial area. Check it out!
Types of Self-employment and small business
For more on the features of the different business structures, try the Australian Tax Office.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has a range of important information about running a company.
From the New South Wales Department of State and Regional Development, this useful Small Business site explains the advantages and disadvantages of different business structures.
The Small Business Development Corporation offers a brief comparison of business structures and resources that can be purchased.
For anyone interested in running a small business in the Eastern Wheatbelt region, the Small Business Centre provides basic information of the various business structures. Follow the Advice link to Business Planning and Structure.
Requirements of self-employment and small business operation
Check out the Australian Government's Business Entry Point for information about an Australian Business Number (ABN). You can also make the application if you want to in the Online Services section.
The Australian Government's Business Entry Point also gives you the opportunity to register for the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Under Business topics you’ll find Taxation.
Information about registering a business name too can be found on the Australian Government's Business Entry Point website. Look for Registration and licences under Business topics.
If you want to explore names for your business enterprise, check out the Australian Business Register. Go to Search the public register.
On Bizline, from the Department of Consumer and Protection, you’ll find information on registering a business name.
If you’re interested in the legalities of operating a small business, try the Legal Issues Guide for Small Business provided by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources.
You’ll find information on the regulations, registrations, permits and approvals, which apply to new and existing businesses in WA at the Business Licence Information Servic.
Business plans
A great place to start is business.gov.au. You’ll find a range of Business plan guides and templates to help you along.
For anyone interested in running a small business in the Eastern Wheatbelt region, the Small Business Centre provides basic information of the various business structures. Follow the Advice link to Business Planning and Structure.
From New South Wales, the Small Business site explains business plans and provides other useful information on starting and managing a business. Follow the Starting in Business link and you’ll find a link to Business Planning.
At Business Victoria you’ll find information, guides and samples to help you develop your own business plan. Follow the Staring a Business link to Business and Marketing Planning.
Check out the Canberra Business Advisory Service for information, guides and checklists to help you get started on developing a business plan.
Resources and assistance schemes
General information
The WA Department of Consumer and Employment Protection has plenty of information and advice about the rights and responsibilities of consumers and businesses under the Western Australian fair trading laws. Give it a go.
For a wealth of information and services for people in business and those contemplating going into business try the Small Business Development Corporation.
If you’re interested in developing a home based business, check out the Home Based Business Network website. There’s information, guidance, an interactive forum, success stories and a kit that addresses all aspects of operating a business from or at home. There’s no place like home.
Doing Business in WA, provided by the State Library of Western Australia, has a range of resources to help you research and get started in your small business. It’s all there for you.
It’s important to understand business tax issues. The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has a wealth of information about operating a business and financial matters. Follow the For Businesses link to GST essentials Don’t let tax be a tax on you.
Coming from the Queensland government, the Home Based Business Manuals site has lots of information and worksheets for you to use if you are considering a home-based business.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has great information on improving market conduct, enhancing competition, promoting fair trade and informing people in small business of their rights and obligations. Try their Small business easy access point. It’s not hard.
Check out your local Business Enterprise Centre. There are 37 independent centres throughout Western Australia. They provide free, independent, confidential and practical assistance on a wide range of business related issues. Follow the National Network link and find a centre near you.
The business.gov.au site is a gateway to all the government information and services you need for starting and running a small business. Check out their How-to Guides and Home-based business links.
Australian Business Ltd is a useful NSW site to check out. You'll find loads of information in their library about employment laws, financial management and the latest economic trends. It’s member-based but free to join. Make it your business to check this site out.
Assistance schemes
Follow the Business Assistance link on the Department of Industry and Resources’ Business and Industry site. They provide both financial and non-financial assistance to support economic development initiatives for a range of activities. You can plug into a huge range of business schemes and opportunities.
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme is an assistance program offered by the Federal Government for job seekers who want to go into elf-employment. All the information and conditions are available on this job network site.
If you’re looking for assistance to help your business become more innovative and internationally competitive try AusIndustry. It’s the Commonwealth Government’s business unit for business assistance and information. You’ll find a number of assistance programs to help you.
Networks and associations
The Home based business network provides guidance and can connect you to others operating or starting a home based business. There are many useful tools here.
You’ll find networks and information for online small business at The Small Business Support Network.
If you’re interested in moving further a field, the Small Enterprise Association of Australia and New Zealand aims to promote communication and dissemination of research, ideas and information to develop small enterprise and enterprise management.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry has a whole range of services on offer including information on building, managing and maintaining your small business.
Try the Master Builders Association of WA to find what services they offer and how they represent members in the building and construction industry.
For professional services and training related to the transport industry, check out the Transport Forum of WA (Inc). They also lobby government on relevant issues.
The Retail Traders Association of WA offers members help and advice on a range of issues, a monthly newsletter tailored to the industry and gives retailers a chance to have their say on policies and laws that affect their business.
If you’re interested in information technology and communications, the Australian Computer Society helps to promote standards, ethics, practices and policies for the benefit of members, organisations and the community.
The Motor Trades Association of WA (Inc) provides industrial and safety information and advice to assist and protect its members.
The development of the shearing industry is the aim of the Shearing Contractors Association of WA (Inc). It coordinates meetings and forums to address significant industry matters and provides training and consultation.
Advice to and representation of members of the restaurant and catering industry can be found on the Restaurant and Catering Association of Australia.
Special interest groups
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
If you’d like help to achieve increased economic independence by building, establishing and operating business enterprises, follow the WA Department of Industry and Resources’ Business and Industry link to Aboriginal Economic Development.
Check out Indigenous Business Australia for information about their skill development services and ways of financing a small business.
If you want to start up your own business but you’re not sure how to go about it, check out The Australian Government’s Indigenous Capital Assistance Scheme (ICAS). It has loads of information and provides culturally appropriate professional and mentoring support services to help you get started.
Try the Employment Assistance for Indigenous Australians site for links to information about programmes and services the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) uses to support and increase Indigenous involvement in business.
If you’re already in business but would like to develop and expand it, the Indigenous Small Business Fund (ISBF) can help. It can support any Indigenous community-based organisations to help Indigenous people learn about business, develop good business skills and learn ways of expanding a business.
Migrants new to WA
If you’re looking for assistance and support for business migration to Western Australia, The Small Business Development Corporation’s Business Migration WA is a great place to start.
People with disabilities
Want to find out what it’s like working in a small business environment? The Hills Community Support Group (HCSG) takes on contract work to provide opportunities for people with disabilities to work in a small business environment.
Young people
So you’d like to be an entrepreneur? Check out Enterprise for Young People for information about being entrepreneurial, where to find ideas and opportunities, and managing and financing a business.
If you want to get into a business, try the Young Business Network. There’s lots of information, inspiration and support for you to get going.
Mature age people
Are you interested in trying something new? Wise Moves is a practical kit for mature aged small business entrants targeting the over 50 market. You can get it through the Small Business Development Corporation’s online bookshop.
If you’re thinking about taking up a trade apprenticeship in mid-career the Australian government’s Skills for the Future program provides financial incentives to help you.