Working in Western Australia
Your rights in the workplace
Guide to industries
Business opportunities
Small businesses account for 95 per cent of all businesses in the State and employ around a third of its labour force.
Most small businesses in Western Australia are in the following industries:
construction;
agriculture, forestry and fishing;
finance and insurance services;
transport, postal and warehousing; and
retail trade.
There are three ways you can own a business in Western Australia.
Buying an established business can mean a big commitment in time, money and energy. Read the important points to consider on the Small Business Development Corporation website before you decide to buy a business.
Franchising is when you use another firm’s successful business model for your independently owned outlet. Read more about buying a franchise on the Small Business Development Corporation website.
Instead of buying a pre-existing business, you may want to start your own. There is much more involved in starting a new business rather than buying an existing business (with proven cash flow and profits). Carefully read the Small Business Development Corporation information to make sure this option is for you.
Free Skilled Migrant Employment Register now available!
18 July 2022
The new Skilled Migrant Employment Register is a free initiative supporting employers and skilled migrants to connect to build the Western Australian workforce.
Skilled migrants seeking employment can indicate their interest to connect with the Western Australian workforce by completing the registration form. Once registered, de-identified details are published on the Skilled Migrant Employment Register, indicating to employers the interest to gain employment in Western Australia.
Employers have the opportunity to review the Skilled Migrant Employment Register to identify talent that may align with their business needs, and connect with a skilled migrant.
For more information, visit Skilled Migrant Employment Register.
The WA Government's management of COVID-19 has helped keep the state's economy strong and stable. With world class education, healthy job opportunities and strong public health management, there is no better or safer place to live, work and study than WA.