Course Objectives
By the end of this course, you 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