You've decided to go into business, completed your market research and written your business plan. Now you're ready to take the next step, but where do you begin when starting a new business?

You can take advantage of a broad range of advice and support offered by the Australian Government.

Innovation is not just about inventions. It's about new ideas and responding to new trends and market conditions, or improving existing products and services.

Good financial management is critical to the ongoing success of your business.

Understanding your taxation obligations is important when starting up a new business. Various federal, state and local government taxes and rates can apply, depending on the size and location of your business.

One of the first things you need to find out when you're starting out is what laws apply to your new business.

The type of business you conduct determines what you need to register for.

It's important for you to find out the licensing requirements that apply to your new business.

Setting up your business operations involves many different aspects.

How to promote your business through marketing, advertising and networking.

People intending to use their home as a place of business often have to comply with particular state, territory and local government regulations.

If you plan to buy an existing business, carefully analyse both the advantages and disadvantages.

The new independent contractors law could possibly affect your tax, occupational health and safety and other obligations.

It is possible to be an employee for some work and a contractor for other work.

As a contractor, you may have to pay tax at a different rate to employees.

Find out what your entitlements are for superannuation, OH&S and workers compensation.

Although you may have contributed to or created material, products and ideas as a contractor, you may not be entitled to intellectual property ownership such as copyright.