Government assistance for small business can take many forms, most commonly it is in the form of free or low cost advisory services. It is rarely by way of cash grants or loans to enable new businesses to start, or to help existing businesses overcome a shortage of funds. Usually this kind of funding has to be obtained via banks and other conventional lending institutions or through private means. Nonetheless, there are many State and Commonwealth Government financial assistance programs available for activities such as market and product development, and access is usually subject to eligibility criteria.

 

HOW TO FIND OUT ABOUT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Assistance is available through State and Commonwealth Governments. Information about specific programs can be obtained from the responsible department.

 

You will need to allocate some time to conduct research into what assistance is available and whether you fit the criteria. An excellent starting point is the use of search facilities via the Internet. If you don’t have access to the internet, there are many places which offer free or low cost internet access, such as your local library or the Business Information & Licence Centre (BILC), 553 Hay Street (Cnr Pier), Perth.

 

Your industry association should be able to advise you of any relevant assistance available, as it is often through their representations that the government provides an assistance program. There are also various competitions that provide rewards, in cash grants or products, for innovation or excellence in business. The method of entry is submission of a comprehensive business plan, and they are generally advertised widely in the media.

 

The following information may assist with your research.

 

 

This is a central, regularly updated, computerised database of Commonwealth and State Government assistance schemes.

 

You can phone for access to key business information and assistance programs for the cost of a local call. An information officer will refer you to the right people, with the option of printed information mailed out within 24 hours. The hotline is open from 8.00am to 6.00pm AEST

 

 

Austrade is the agency of the Federal Government dedicated to helping Australian exporters take their goods and services into overseas markets.

 

 

AusIndustry Business Development Programs, and Programs for Research and Development

 

 

A range of financial and non-financial resources are available to assist the processing, manufacturing and service industries, and regional enterprises through this State Government department.

 

 

Financial assistance through incentive payments and employment subsidies for traineeships and apprenticeships.

 

For wage assistance when employing indigenous jobseekers, phone 1802 102.
Centrelink: 13 17 15

 

 

NEIS assists eligible job seekers who have an idea for a viable new small business to establish their self-employment venture. The receipt of qualifying Centrelink income support primarily determines eligibility for NEIS.

 

To be eligible for SED, a job seeker must have been unemployed and in continuous receipt of Newstart Allowance or Youth Allowance for six months or more.

 

 

Arts WA has a comprehensive Internet data base containing information on cultural support programs including business support.

 

 

This department administers a range of grants and incentives for communications, information technology and cultural activities.

 

HOW TO APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE
Usually the government agency providing programs calls for expressions of interest through advertising in newspapers or journals. They always have well defined eligibility criteria, and often there is an application form that is available on request. Registering your interest in the program with the government agencies is also suggested. It is advisable to consider seeking professional help in the preparation of the application, particularly if you have no previous experience.

 

KEEPING IN TOUCH
To keep up to date with new initiatives and programs, you should read business magazines and newspapers, and search the internet. If you are 15-28 years of age check out SBDC’s youth website for grants and competitions at:
Web site:www.bgeneration.com.au

 

ADVICE
Your accountant or financial adviser is probably the best person to talk to. Alternatively, contact one of the Small Business Centres (SBC). For contact details of your local SBC ring 1800 093 340. Even though they may not be the funding agency, SBDC or your local SBC can help you with your queries about government assistance.