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​​​​​​​​​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.

 

Buy a business

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 Corp​oration website​ before you decide to buy a business.

 

Buy a franchise

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​.

 

Start a business

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.
News

Welcome news for international students – Graduate stream of the State Nominated Migration program expanded to include VET graduates

The Graduate stream of the State Nominated Migration Program provides a skilled migration pathway for international students graduating from university in Western Australia.  From December 2019, the Graduate stream has been extended to include VET graduates who complete a qualification in Western Australia at Certificate III level or above. 

The Graduate stream is also more accessible for international students:

studies in higher education, VET (Certificate III level and above) and/or English language courses for overseas students (ELICOS) studies all count towards the requirement to study for two years in Western Australia.

Graduates need to demonstrate either six months' work experience in Australia OR a six month employment contract in Western Australia, but not both.  Previously international students needed to have 12 months of work experience plus a job offer for 12 months.

A new Graduate Occupation List (GOL) and updated eligibility criteria are now available.  

For more information on the changes to the Graduate stream, visit the Graduate stream requirements page.

The criteria for the General stream of the State Nomination Migration Program  will remain the same; however the Western Australian State Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) has been updated. 

Fun Fact
The Super Pit in Kalgoorlie produces up to 850 000 ounces (over 24 090 kilograms) of gold every year and its operation far outweighs that of any other mining centre in ...