How to Start Your Online Business in Australia

Starting an online business can be as confusing as taking directions from Google Maps. But knowing you’ll get there somehow is what motivates you to push forward, after all, there is no short cut to success. Want to fly solo from now on? Put your best foot forward with these tips!

1. Come up with an Original Business Name

A good business name should make a long-lasting impression and original. Originality is what sets a business stand out from the rest. Read this list below to help you verify if your business name already exists somewhere out there: 

1.  Search engine sites – Google, Bing, and Yahoo can provide you with a substantial amount of information on the currently existing businesses on their database. Just type in your business name into the search box and check out the results. Of course, you’d want to be taken seriously by your customers so choose wisely.
2. Scour the ASIC database for similar business names – If Googling the name has not been satisfying thus far, you can check with Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s website. This organization hosts an expansive list of businesses and companies in the country.

• Browse through the registered domain names – Online, go to a few domain name service providers like iiNet.com.au to check if your chosen business name has not yet been used. When you see that your business name is available, you can then proceed to register your domain name, in Australia you can use com.au as ccTLD (country Top Level Domain). Aside from .com.au and .com, you can use a domain name under a different extension like .net, .biz, .info, or.org.

2. Should you register or incorporate your Online Business?

There’s a big difference between running your online business as a Pty Ltd and a sole trader. The former offers a better way of protecting your personal assets and the business in the event of claims due to risks taken. Meanwhile, being a sole trader, you essentially put your assets at risk like foreclosures. So, determine what’s best for you and your business before pursuing any of these choices.

3. Prepare your Business Plan

Serving as the blueprint of your business, it should contain all of your business goals and objects and forecast your annual spending. Without it, your business will end up astray in the highly competitive and volatile market.

4. Build a Website

Build a website to sell your services and/or goods. If you want an online fashion store, contact a web developer who have eCommerce experience. On your website, do not forget to put a Website Disclaimer, Privacy Policy, and Terms & Conditions. Alternately, if your business still doesn’t require big and dedicated website, sell your goods via Ebay, Amazon, Etsy, among other eCommerce websites.

5. Hire Professionals to make things Easier for You

As your business grows, so will the demand to focus on the core business tasks like decision-making. When this happens make sure you have a team of contractors or freelancers to help you out in the other aspects of the business.