9.11.4 Business Planning and Mentoring

Business Planning

Preparation of a business plan is seen as an integral part of the rehabilitation plan for any client who proposes to enter into self-employment.  The process of preparing a business plan enables the client to determine the level of commitment they are prepared and will need to make to the venture to ensure success.

The business plan should include:

• a description of the business, including who will work in the business and where the business will be located;
• an analysis of the market, including the competition;
• a list of the initial outlay costs;
• a cash flow projection which details the monthly financial incomings and outgoings of the business over a 12-month period; and
• a projected profit and loss statement for a 12-month period.

Small Business Support

Mentoring in the early stages of development of a small business can provide valuable support and assistance for those new to the realms of self-employment and small business.

Following are links to state and territory government websites that provide information about small business mentoring services:

ACT - Innovation, Trade and Investment - Start your business

NSW - NSW Small Business

NT - Territory Business Centre

QLD - Department of Employment, Small Business and Training 

SA - Department of State Development

TAS - Business Tasmania - Starting a business

VIC - Business Victoria - Start a business

WA - Small Business Development Corporation