• Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa (subclass 188) – Entrepreneur stream

  For non-Australian nationals intending to carry out entrepreneurial activity.

• Requirements include:
  • Nomination by an Australian State or Territory government agency.
  • Submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI).
  • Invitation to apply for the visa.
  • Under 55 years of age (unless exceptional economic benefit is proven).
  • Competent English language skills.
  • Meet health and character requirements.
  • No significant debt to the Australian government.
  • Sign the Australian values statement.
  • This provisional visa can lead to a permanent Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888) – Entrepreneur stream.
• Other business visas

  Various other visa options exist depending on the investment level, business type, and applicant's background. Professional advice from a registered migration agent is highly recommended.

Popular business types:

• Sole Trader: Simple to set up, but the individual is personally liable for all business debts.
• Company (Proprietary Limited - Pty Ltd): Most common structure for larger businesses, offering limited liability to shareholders.

  Steps:

• Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) and Tax File Number (TFN).
• Register the business name (if different from your own name or company name).
• Register with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) for companies.
• Open a business bank account.
• Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if turnover is $75,000 or more.

Setup Time: 1–3 weeks (can vary depending on complexity). A resident director is required for companies.

• Food Business License: Required from local council; classification depends on food type and risk.
• Food Safety Supervisor & Food Handler Training: Mandatory for employees in food businesses.
• Alcohol License (Liquor License): Varies by state/territory (e.g., On-Premises, Small Bar, Restaurant License). Different licenses apply for on-site consumption, takeaway, and trading hours. Can be complex and involve criminal background checks and public hearings.
• Outdoor Dining Permit: Required from local council for tables and chairs on public footpaths or in parklets.
• Health and Safety Regulations: Compliance with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code is essential.

Australia has stringent regulations; consulting with a local legal expert and accountant is crucial.

• Corporate Tax:
  • Full company tax rate: 30%
  • Lower company tax rate (for "base rate entities" with aggregated turnover less than $50 million): 25%
• Goods and Services Tax (GST): 10% on most goods and services.
• Income Tax for Individuals: Progressive rates up to 45% (plus Medicare levy of 2%).
• Superannuation Guarantee (Employer Share): Mandatory employer contributions to employee's superannuation fund. The rate will rise to 12% from July 1, 2025, based on an employee's ordinary time earnings.

Employment

• National Minimum Wage (as of July 1, 2025): ~$24.95 per hour or $948 per week (for 38 hours).
• Standard Contracts: Full-time, part-time, and casual employment are common. Fixed-term contracts have specific regulations, generally with a maximum length of two years.
• Written Contracts: Highly recommended, though verbal agreements can be legally binding.
• Employee Registration: Employers must register employees with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and adhere to Fair Work regulations.

• Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) Approval: Generally required for foreign persons acquiring Australian property, including commercial real estate, with varying thresholds. Fees apply.
• Lease Terms: Typically 3-10 years, with options for extension. Key terms include rent, outgoings, permitted use, fit-out, maintenance, and assignment/subletting clauses.
• Hotspots: Sydney (CBD, Inner West, Eastern Suburbs), Melbourne (CBD, Fitzroy, St Kilda), Brisbane (CBD, Fortitude Valley), Perth, Gold Coast.

• Strong Domestic and International Tourism: Significant spending by visitors, with New Zealand, China, USA, UK, and India being top source markets.
• Diverse Culinary Scene: Demand for high-quality food, international cuisines, and innovative dining concepts.
• Increasing Demand for Healthy/Sustainable Options: Growth in vegetarian, vegan, and locally sourced produce.
• Casual Dining and Brunch Culture: Very popular across all major cities.
• Digital Integration: Online bookings, food delivery platforms, and social media presence are critical for success.

• Austrade: Australian Government's trade and investment commission, offering resources for foreign investors.
• State and Territory Government Agencies: Offer business support and nomination for certain visas (e.g., Investment NSW, Invest Victoria).
• Industry Associations: e.g., Restaurant & Catering Australia, Accommodation Association.
• Local Chambers of Commerce: Provide networking and business advice.

• Self-funding and Private Investment: Most common for foreign entrepreneurs.
• Commercial Bank Loans: Available from Australian banks, often requiring substantial collateral or a strong business plan.
• Government Grants: Limited, often specific to regional development, innovation, or certain industries; typically accessed through state/territory government programs (e.g., Destination NSW grants for tourism).

• Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
• Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
• Department of Home Affairs (for visas)
• Business.gov.au
• Fair Work Ombudsman
• Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB)

Australia's hospitality market is competitive but rewarding. Focus on unique concepts, exceptional service, and strong digital presence. Engage with local professionals early – a good accountant, lawyer, and migration agent will be invaluable for navigating the regulations and ensuring compliance.