Course Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will:
• Gain essential knowledge for starting and managing a small business.
• Identify business opportunities within their trade or vocational field.
• Develop financial literacy, business planning, and marketing strategies.
• Strengthen problem-solving and decision-making skills for long-term success.
Course Structure
Delivered over 8 hours (2 × 4 hour Saturdays or 4 x 2 hour weeknights), this course combines workshops, case studies, and practical exercises across six modules:
Module 1: Introduction to Business Ownership & Entrepreneurship
• Aligning products/services with target markets and value propositions.
• Key business planning steps for start-ups.
• Practical guidance on registering an ABN and business name.
• Estimating start-up costs and timelines.
• Understanding compliance and insurance requirements.
Module 2: Navigating the Business Landscape
• Self-assessment of skills, strengths, and blind spots.
• Analysing the competitive market and defining your advantage.
• Reading market trends: political, economic, social, and technological factors.
• Prioritizing opportunities and managing risks.
Module 3: Financial Literacy for Small Business
• Building revenue streams and basic financial acumen.
• Tax compliance and obligations (ATO) – practical insights.
• Cash-flow management for sustainability.
• Fundamentals of bookkeeping and financial management.
Module 4: Business Model Fundamentals
• Customer segmentation and value proposition alignment.
• Designing efficient operational models and resource allocation.
• Understanding income and expense impacts on your business model.
Module 5: Contracting, Sub-Contracting & Employment
• Legal distinctions between subcontractors and employees.
• Protecting yourself legally, financially, and professionally.
• Compliance with insurance, liability, tax, superannuation, WHS, and dispute resolution.
Module 6: Go-to-Market Strategies
• Creating a simple, actionable business plan.
• Developing cohesive strategies for growth.
• Reviewing business performance and identifying success levers.