Start your business

Starting a business? You've come to the right place!

We have sourced useful small business information, support services and resources available from local, state and federal government agencies and key government funded organisations, to help you find the information you need.

The following information, resources and checklists will give your new business the best possible start.

Permits and approvals

Business and Tourism Services team members in a meeting

Starting a business in Swan? Download a welcome pack.

Download our new business welcome pack, and we'll help you get your business up and running.

Download your welcome pack

How to start a business

The Small Business Development Corporation’s (SBDC) starting a business checklist guides you through the early stages of setting up your business. 

Following this checklist will help you assess your readiness to launch, outline the process and tap into SBDC’s additional support. 

SBDC also offers these support services:

  • Business counselling and advice
  • Training and workshops 
  • Access to finance 
  • Market research and analysis 
  • Networking opportunities
  • Assistance with government regulations 
  • Specialised support programs.

Learn more

An essential part of business success is choosing the right location for your premises. 

While market research can help make this decision, there are also planning laws and zoning restrictions that you need to comply with.

Home-based businesses: Depending on the type of home-based business you want to operate and the nature of your business, you might need approval from the City. Depending on your zone, planning approval is not usually required to operate a home office or home occupation. 

The best thing to do is contact us to discuss.

You may also need licences, permits and registrations to start and run your business.

Health, planning and building approvals are required for many business activities in the City of Swan. Access all the application forms on the business licences, permits and approvals page.

Can’t find what you need for your business? Use SBDC’s Business Licence Finder and search according to your business type.

The City’s economic profile tool provides detailed data that helps you understand our regions position in the broader economy. 

It offers insights for exploring economic development opportunities and highlights the area’s unique strengths to promote growth.

Subscribe to our SwanBiz e-newsletter and get a monthly update featuring the latest business news, events, information and important announcements.

You can also see our list of business events and workshops.

Need help? Contact the City’s Business and Tourism Services team for more information. You can also make an appointment with one of our economic development representatives.

Bec De Barba, the owner of Messy Kids Create

Tailored business support

When Bec De Barba, the owner of Messy Kids Create, reached out for assistance with finding a suitable premises hire, our team was ready to help. We quickly provided her with a list of potential locations in the City of Swan, including our commercial kitchen hire space.

Beyond assisting with finding a space, we also guided Bec to relevant training opportunities that could benefit her business. She attended three sessions and gained valuable insights into marketing of her business. 

With our support, Bec has enhanced her online marketing skills, setting Messy Kids Create on a path to even greater success.

Reach out to our team and get tailored business support.

Business and Tourism Services team members in a meeting

Speak to our team

We’re here to help you. Give us a call on (08) 9267 9267 for a tailored chat about your needs.

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