You're starting a business in Dubbo.

It's exciting times, you have a new idea, a fresh opportunity, you can't wait to get going. Before starting a business in Dubbo, you must tick off these four legal essentials. There is no point wasting all your hard work by failing to get these essentials right.

1. Business registrations

   As a new business owner in Dubbo, you must register a business name before commencing any business activities. As well as the following ATO requirements.

   • an Australian Business Number (ABN)
   • the Goods and Services Tax (GST)
   • a Tax File Number (TFN)
   • Pay as you go (PAYG) withholding.

   You may also elect to register a trademark applicable to your business. If you're operating as a company, a different registration process applies than if you were a sole trader, partnership, or trust. To decide which structure is right for you, read our Commercial Law page.

2. Licences

   Different businesses, such as food need a licence to operate when starting a business in Dubbo. It's important that you find out if your particular business needs a licence. If you don't obtain the right licence or may face fines or other issues.

   The Australian Business Licence and Information Service (ABLIS)  can help take the guess work out the licences, permits and registrations needed to run your business.

3. Understanding the Privacy Act

   The privacy laws have changed since March 2014. The principles cover how a business handles personal information, including the:

   • handling and processing of personal information
   • use of personal information for direct marketing purposes
   • disclosing of personal information to people overseas.

   You'll need to be aware of your obligations under the Australian Privacy Principles.

4. Are they employees or Independent contractors?

   Independent contractors are self-employed and provide a service to a business. Often small business owners believe that a person is working with as an independent contractor (especially trade related businesses) when that person is actually deemed to be an employee. The tax ramifications may be significant.

   It's important to know whether you're hiring an independent contractor or an employee, so you can be sure you're complying with your legal obligations.

When starting a business in Dubbo, there is more to think about than just your idea, product or service. You must get these essentials right. If you have any questions about running a small business then ask Duffy Elliott for help.