Licenses and Permits

Before a business begins to operate, whether it's selling products, providing services, or working at different locations, it's crucial to know what licenses, permits, and certificates are needed to do so legally.

Many people think that only big companies or certain types of businesses need licenses, but that's not true. Licenses and permits can also apply to:

• Small businesses and sole traders
• Businesses run from home
• Mobile and on-site services
• Online businesses
• Companies that operate in multiple areas or states

The requirements can come from local councils, state governments, or the national government in Australia. They usually depend on what your business does, where it operates, and how it runs.

Operating without the right licenses or permits can lead to serious problems, such as:

• Fines or penalties
• Issues with insurance coverage
• Trouble with contracts or tenders
• Delays in getting started
• Damage to your reputation

Many clients, councils, insurance companies, and government buyers will want to see proof that you have the necessary approvals before they decide to work with you.

By figuring out these requirements early on, you can avoid unexpected costs and delays and show your business is compliant and professional.

How to find out what your business needs

The Australian Government provides a free tools, one is called the Business type - Australian Business Licence and Information Service by ABLIS.

This tool allows you to select your business activity, answer a series of questions about what you do, or what you're planning to do in the business.

It’ll give you a list of licences, permits, approvals, and certificates that may apply to your business. You do not have to apply for all of them straightaway but make sure you do apply for the ones that are important to your operations.

The tool does not register you automatically; instead, it gives you a customised list of requirements so you can understand:

• What approvals may be needed
• Which level of government they come from
• Where to apply
• What to prioritise before operating

This is a critical step for businesses that operate across multiple activities, locations, or industries.

Similarly, you can use the Business Launchpad to find out what your business requires.

For more information about your industry, go to Industry information | business.gov.au

Licences and Permits Register

Once you know what approvals apply to your business, it’s not enough to rely on memory or emails.

Download our Licences and Permits Register spreadsheet so you can:

• Track what you need versus what you already have
• Record application and approval details
• Monitor renewal dates and conditions
• Provide evidence during audits, tenders, or compliance checks
• Maintain business continuity as the business grows

Save this register to your business folder and update it when a new business activity starts, a licence or permit applied for is approved, your business conditions change, or to track when permits and licences will expire.