Below are a collection of websites with a wealth of valuable information for businesses of all sizes and at every stage of development.
ABN Lookup
Apply for an ABN (Australian Business Number) online or lookup publicly available information on other businesses with an ABN.
www.abr.business.gov.au
Agriculture Portal
Government information and services for the agriculture, fisheries, processed food and forestry industries.
www.agriculture.gov.au
AusIndustry
Information and services for industry, science, research and innovation.
www.ausindustry.gov.au
Austrade
A one-stop-shop for exporters, with information on grants and assistance for those looking at international markets.
www.austrade.gov.au
Australian Apprenticeships
Everything you need to know about hiring a new apprentice.
www.austrlainapprenticeships.gov.au
Australian Bureau of Statistics
A wealth of free information, particularly if you are researching demographics for a new product or market.
www.abs.gov.au
Australian Customs Service
Information for any business involved in importing or exporting goods.
www.customs.gov.au
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
For compliance issues relating to competition, fair trading and consumer protection laws.
www.accc.gov.au
Australian Taxation Office
Everything related to taxation and Business Activity Statements (BAS)
www.ato.gov.au
Business Entry Point
A great starting point for information and links to all kinds of business services whether starting or growing your business, including free guides and templates.
www.business.gov.au
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Australia
Responsible for increasing competitiveness, profitability and sustainability in these industries.
www.daff.gov.au
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Outlines trade policies and guidelines, including access to Business Gateway which provides business services information.
www.dfat.gov.au
Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research
How to implement new ideas and where to go for assistance. Government initiatives to promote internationally competitive and sustainable business.
www.innovation.gov.au
Fair Work Australia
Infomation about the new workplace relations system and tribunal.
www.fairwork.gov.au
GrantsLINK
Helps you find funding available under government grants and how to apply for them.
www.grantslink.gov.au
Intellectual Property Australia
Information to secure your intellectual property - patents, trademarks, design and plant breeder's rights.
www.ipaustralia.gov.au
Regional Entry Point
Information about a range of programs and services for those in regional, rural or remote Australia.
www.regionalaustralia.gov.au
Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
Information for rural and agribusiness industries including research, publications, R&D, industry programs and articles.
www.rirdc.gov.au
Tourism Research Australia
Tourism statistics based on national and internation visitor surveys.
www.tra.australia.com
Women's Portal
Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs' progams, services, grants and funding for women.
www.women.gov.au
See also State and Local Government websites for local business information, research, advice and other services, as well as grants and funding opportunities.
The Australian Copyright Council
An independent non-profit organisation providing information about copyright laws.
www.copyright.org.au
Franchising Advisory Centre
Advice on starting or buying a franchise.
www.franchiseadvice.com.au
Franchise Council of Australia
Information on franchising matters.
www.franchise.org.au
The Law Society of NSW
Legal information and referral service.
www.lawsociety.com.au
Institute of Patent and Trademark Attorneys of Australia
General information and referral service.
www.ipta.com.au
Advice and assistance for employers on workplace requirements, issues, HR, OH&S, training etc.
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Links to State chambers, industry associations and bilateral business councils.
www.acci.asn.au
Australian Federation of Employers and Industries
Independent employers group and business advisory organisation.
www.afei.org.au
NSW - NSW Business Chamber
VIC - Victorian Employers' Chamber of Commerce and Industry
QLD - Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland
WA - Chamber of Commerce and Industry Western Australia
SA - Business SA
ACT - ACT and region Chamber of Commerce and Industry
TAS - Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
NT - Chamber of Commerce NT