You've got an idea. Let's see where it goes.
Whether you’re still turning an idea over in your head or you’re ready to make the move, BUSY Business helps you take the next step with confidence. We’ll give you an honest view of what’s viable, help you build a plan that holds up, and work with you through every stage.
Did you know expert business support could cost you nothing?
Through the Australian Government’s Self-Employment Assistance program, eligible Australians can access fully funded business advisory services, one-on-one mentoring, structured business planning and practical guidance, from your first assessment through to launch. Eligible start-up owners may also qualify for financial support to help get your idea off the ground in those crucial early months.
If you’re eligible and you’re ready to build something, we can support you!
How the Program Works
Self-Employment Assistance is a flexible, no-cost program designed to support you at every stage of your business journey, whether you’re simply exploring an idea, planning your launch or already running a business and looking to grow.
The program includes a range of practical services delivered by experienced business mentors, trainers and advisors. There’s no one-size-fits-all pathway; you can access one service or several, depending on your goals, experience and where you’re currently at in business.
Your journey starts with a discovery conversation, where we’ll discuss your business idea, current situation and the types of support that may suit you best.
Included Services
Exploring Self-Employment Workshops
A practical and interactive workshop designed to help you explore self-employment and test your business idea before committing to the next step. Delivered by experienced business owners.
- Understand what’s involved in running a business
- Assess whether your idea is commercially viable
- Explore your strengths, goals and readiness for self-employment
- Learn about the support available through the program
Small Business Training
Free accredited training designed to build the skills and confidence needed to start and run a successful business. Flexible options include:
- Micro Business Skill Set
- New Business Venture Skill Set
- Certificate III & IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business
Business Plan Development
Work one-on-one with an experienced business mentor to develop a tailored business plan and financial forecasts for your business.
- Clarify your business strategy
- Build realistic financial projections
- Identify risks and opportunities
- Create a practical roadmap for launch and growth
A successful business plan assessment may provide access to the 12-month Small Business Coaching program.
Business Advice Sessions & Health Checks
Business Advice Sessions: Up to two one-hour sessions each year with a qualified business advisor.
Business Health Checks: A comprehensive three-hour review of an existing business, identifying strengths, risks and growth opportunities.
Small Business Coaching
Work one-on-one with a dedicated mentor who tailors guidance to your goals and growth stage. Over a period of up to 12 months, they’ll help you build confidence, sharpen decision-making and strengthen planning, keeping you focused and accountable.
Eligible participants may also receive:
- Up to $300 reimbursement for eligible business expenses (such as insurance)
- Australian-Government funded Self-Employment Allowance for up to 39 weeks
- Self-Employment Rental Assistance for up to 26 weeks
The Numbers Behind the Program
These aren’t just numbers. Each one represents a person who decided to back themselves and got the support to make it happen.
Eligibility
BUSY Business delivers the Self-Employment Assistance program in Cairns, Wide Bay/Sunshine Coast Regions. Search for your local provider.
Individual eligibility
You must:
- Be at least 15 years of age (18 or older to access Small Business Coaching)
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold eligible working rights in Australia
- Not be an undischarged bankrupt
Business eligibility
The proposed or existing business must:
- Be a new business or existing microbusiness (up to 4 employees)
- Be independent, lawful and capable of withstanding public scrutiny
- Be established, located and operated solely within Australia
- Have controlling interest held during participation in the program
All eligibility is subject to assessment by the provider in line with Self-Employment Assistance program guidelines.
Real Reviews
You don’t have to take our word for it! Here’s what our clients say about working with BUSY Business.
"An old dog can learn new tricks!"
Ray had a vision, some tools, and a willingness to work. Through the SEA program, he accessed free business planning help, accredited small business training, and one-on-one mentoring. His advisor helped him set up a Google Business profile, and within weeks he had his first paying jobs. Ray’s Home and Yard Care now serves clients in Mareeba, including people who need help maintaining their properties as they get older. For Ray, that’s not just a business. It’s a purpose.
— Ray, Ray’s Home and Yard Care, Mareeba QLD
"I had the skills and the passion. What I didn't have was the business side."
Mark is a qualified dog trainer and canine behaviouralist who wanted to work for himself. With mentoring support through the SEA program, he launched Doctor Dog — a personal dog training service specialising in behavioural problem solving.
— Mark, Doctor Dog, QLD
Self-Employment Assistance: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Self-Employment Assistance program for?
The program supports new entrepreneurs to assess viability of their business idea, as well as established micro-business owners (up to 4 employees) looking for advice or to enhance their business skills and knowledge to support the success of their business.
Does the Self-Employment Assistance program cost anything?
The program is fully funded by the Australian Government and is at no cost to participants.
What kind of support can I access through Self-Employment Assistance?
Initially, you can attend a Self-Employment Assistance workshop to see if the program is for you. If you enter the program, for 12 months you can access a range of services that include accredited small business management training, workshops on a range of useful business topics, business plan development and one-on-one mentoring support to assess the health of your business and offer strategic advice to move forward.
Is there financial support available through the Self-Employment Assistance program while I grow my business?
If you are receiving an eligible income support payment, you may be eligible for the Self-Employment Assistance Program Payment while you focus on establishing and growing your business. This support is available for up to 39 weeks, allowing you to concentrate on building your business during the early stages of operation.
Participants undertaking Small Business Coaching are also eligible for a business cost reimbursement of up to $300 to assist with approved business expenses.
Where does BUSY Business deliver Self-Employment Assistance?
BUSY Business delivers the Self-Employment Assistance program in these regions:
- Sunshine Coast
- Cairns and surrounds
- Tablelands
- Gympie
- Maryborough
- Bundaberg
- West Pialba
- Burnett
