natural connected prosperous
Business Support
COVID-19 resources & support
For a full range range of information, links, and resources to help you during these difficult times, please visit the Shire's COVID-19 Information page. This page is kept up-to-date with:
- Latest information about what the Australian Government's packages mean for you - thanks to IPG for providing this information free of charge.
- Links to services and support for businesses to help cope through this period.
- Advice for food and accommodation businesses.
Visit the COVID-19 Information page by clicking here.
The Shire's approach to Business
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is committed to supporting its sustainable industry base, 97% of which comprises small and micro business. The Shire is working to make life easier for the business community through a number of efforts, including:
- Creation of a Sustainable Economy Officer. Please contact Saul Cresswell on [email protected], or 9780 5250.
- Signing the Small Business Friendly Charter, and committing to recognising and supporting local small businesses.
- Building a "Regional Price Preference" into Tenders, which gives local Tenderers an additional advantage over outside businesses. For more information on Quoting and Tendering for Shire works please see Doing Business with the Shire.
- Creating a Sustainable Economy Advisory Committee with membership including peak business representatives, such as the Margaret River Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Augusta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Cowaramup Retailers Association, Margaret River Wine Association, Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, Scott River Growers Group, and Margaret River Regional Producers Association.
Further information for Businesses
Starting a Business
Starting a Business can be daunting, with registration of your business name, developing a business plan, exploring who your market and your competition are, potentially purchasing a domain name and building a website, and navigating what requirements are from the Shire's perspective. There are a number of organisations available to help at this stage, so please explore the following links for assistance:
For registering a Business name: ASIC (Australian Securities and Investment Commission)
For Business guidance and advice: Business Advisory SW, Many Rivers (business mentorship and microfinance), Margaret River Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Augusta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Small Business Development Corporation.
Permits and approvals
It can be confusing navigating the Local Government requirements to run your business. Please follow the links below for further information on requirements for:
Please note: Planning approvals are required in a number of circumstances when new works or new uses are being undertaken. This is to ensure due consideration for safety, environmental health, traffic flows, amenity for surrounding landholders and other factors. Examples include changing the use of a building, adding roof signs, changing your dwelling to be a Bed & Breakfast / Guesthouse etc. Please click here to view the planning webpage, or phone the Shire on 9780 5255 and ask to speak to the planner on duty.
Doing Business with the Shire
The Shire encourages the development of competitive local businesses within the Shire boundaries, and looks for opportunities to benefit the local economy. If you are interested in becoming a supplier for the Shire, please click here for background information and to register your interest in doing business with the Shire.
