Starting a business

Learn how to set up your business, choose the right structure and apply for key registrations, with free, personalised support from the Service NSW Business Bureau.

Planning to start a business in NSW? From testing your idea, developing a business plan and accessing finance, through to meeting government requirements and creating a marketing strategy, we can support you every step of the way. 

Explore our resources or book a call with our team.

Book a call

Support to start a business

The Service NSW Business Bureau is your first stop for the resources, advice and tools you need.

Basics for getting started

Use this guide to get across key steps in planning and preparing to set up a business.

Online resources

Access free videos, podcasts and articles to help you get started.

Events and workshops

Learn from business experts and start building your network.

Tailored advice

Test your idea with free, tailored advice from independent advisors in one-on-one sessions.

Hear from other business owners

Have a great business idea? See how business owners Jen and Nicola used our support to start and succeed. 

Nicola: We know learning, we know accounting. But that's not all there is to business.

Hi, I'm Nicola.

Jen: And I'm Jen. And together we are the very proud owners of Learnopolis.

We've just turned one year old which is exciting.

We actually make a profit, a little tiny profit in our first year of operation, but a profit nonetheless.

Nicola: Shortly after I registered the business I received an email.

And in there it explained about the Business Concierge. It said that we could get free coaching and advice and training. We thought, well, that's our favourite price.

Jen: We were actually looking for advice around the different types of insurance we needed to operate our business. I was connected with Sam, and we were able to answer the insurance question.

But more than that, Sam was able to share lots of information about the women in business support that was available to us.

Nicola: Then we booked in with one of the Service NSW Business Connect advisors. We thought that's the perfect solution for us to be able to find all the answers that we just don't know.

Plan before you start

Check out these short videos to get across key things to consider before you invest time and money to start a business. 

Can your idea sell?

How to find out if there’s a market for your business.

What are the risks?

Understand and plan for what can go wrong.

Business planning

Creating a business plan is a crucial first step.

What to expect

How to prepare for the first 18 months of your business.

Essentials for setting up a business

Explore a range of resources to learn about important decisions you will need to make when you're ready to set up your business.

Choose a structure

Your business structure will determine your legal and tax obligations.

Register your business

Check what registrations you may need, based on your business structure and type.

Business licences

Understand licensing needs for your industry. 

Understand insurance

It's important to be clear about what insurances you may need.

Funding your business

Learn about financing options.

Business premises

Things to know whether you operate online or lease your site.

Setting up workers

Learn about your responsibilities if you are employing staff.

Marketing your idea

Grow your customer base through an effective marketing strategy.

Still need help?

Book a call with our team.

Industry services

Access specific services for your industry.

Further support

Find more resources for your individual needs.

Accessibility and translation support

You can also contact the Service NSW Business Bureau by calling 13 77 88, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm (Sydney time).

If you’re deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service. Choose your access option and ask for 13 77 88.

For translation and interpreter services, please call 13 14 50 and ask the interpreter to call 13 77 88.

Connect with us

Follow us on:

Last updated: 3 March 2025