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    Self-Employment Assistance

    Thinking about starting your own business or struggling to get your small business off the ground?

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    Starting your own business?

    Self-Employment Assistance assists aspiring entrepreneurs to set up and run their own business.

    The Self-Employment Assistance Program is an Australian 
Government Initiative and is funded by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

    And the best part is - all of the training is at no cost to you!

    Self-Employment Assistance Services

    Included

    Small Business Training

    The program offers 6 weeks of small business training which covers important topics like how to plan a business, market it, manage finances and understand legal requirements.

    Included

    Business Plan Development

    A business plan helps people focus on the steps needed to make their business succeed. The Self-Employment Assistance program can help you develop a business plan in a number of ways, such as through tailored, expert one-on-one advice, small business training and an assessment of your existing business plan to check its viability.

    No cost add-on

    Exploring Self-Employment Workshops

    These 5 day workshops can help you to understand what's involved in starting a business, generate or validate a business idea and make an informed decision as to whether self-employment is right for you.

    No cost add-on

    Business Health Checks

    A Business Health Check is a 3 hour, one-on-one session with a Self-Employment Assistance provider. They can help you assess how your business is currently running and find ways to improve it. If you're eligible, you can access one Business Health Check every 12 months.

    No cost add-on

    Business Advice Sessions

    You can book up to 2 free one hour sessions every 12 months (eligibility rules apply). These sessions may involved gaining advice on establishing your business, improving your business' financial position and a range of other small business related matters to suit your needs.

    Included

    $300 Reimbursement

    You can receive a $300 reimbursement to assist with eligible business costs (such as your business insurance).

    Eligibility

    The Self-Employment Assistance Program has been expanded to support those who have an existing micro-business.

    Your business idea is only limited by your imagination. From hairdressing to website development, repair and maintenance to dog grooming, the sky is the limit!

    Your business must
    • Not be currently operating on a commercial basis
    • Be lawful and capable to withstanding public scrutiny
    • Be assessed as commercially viable by Auctus Training Institute
    • Be established, located, and operated within Australia
    You must
    • Be at least 15 years of age (noting that a person must be 18 years of age to access Small Business Coaching) and eligible to work in Australia to access Exploring Self-Employment Workshops and Training Options
    • Be an Australian Citizen, or the holder of a permanent visa, or a nominated Visa Holder (including a New Zealand Special Category Visa, Temporary Protection Visa Holder and a Safe Haven Visa)
    • Be not an undischarged bankrupt, and
    • Participate in the program and work the required time in the proposed business

    Auctus delivers the Self-Employment Assistance Program in Adelaide North, Adelaide South and the North West Country (Port Augusta, Whyalla and Port Lincoln).

    Make an enquiry

    Looking for more information? Contact our friendly team today!

    Here’s what people say

    "It was an exceptional experience from start to finish"

    ~ Michele, Self-Employment Participant 2024
    "I've just completed my Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business course, and I have to say my time there was unmatched. My experience with AUCTUS was incredible. From the team overlooking all processes and students, to the instructors Craig and Dave, my entire experience was seamless and very easy-going."

    Keven, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "I completed level 3 in entrepreneurship course at Auctus and it was a great learning experience. The sessions were insightful and engaging, especially with Craig as the main facilitator - was excellent at explaining concepts in a practical, thought-provoking way. The course was well structured, and the support provided made the process smooth."

    Gautam Seth, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "I just completed my Self-Employment Assistance training, which centred around writing a professional business plan. The team at Auctus were absolutely wonderful! Everyone, including the facilitators, extensive support staff and the leadership team all took a personal interest in seeing our group succeed. I'm thrilled I chose them as my SEA provider"

    Nick Limberis, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "I just completed the self-employment assistance program and I have to say it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Everyone on the team was fantastic and easy to deal with - especially Craig my trainer. I highly recommend Auctus for small business training. They are very professional and helped me every step of the way!"

    Michele, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "In March 2024, I joined Auctus and successfully completed the Self-Employment Assistance program. They expressed high satisfaction with their mentor and training coach, describing them as exceptional. Additionally, the administrative staff were noted for their kindness and politeness. Overall, I highly recommend Auctus for self-employment training."

    Serena, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "Auctus has been amazing support and helped me get to where I am in my business now. Reece, Ralph and Nadia have been the best help ever. I could not have done this on my own. Thank you everyone from Auctus."

    Gail, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "Outstanding trainers and staff. I highly recommend the Self-Employment program for anyone wishing to make their business viable while enjoying laughter in their day."

    Heidi, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "Excellent course! I highly recommend it because it has helped me a lot as an entrepreneur."

    Alex, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "I recently completed a six-week course in Self Employment Assistance with Auctus Training, and have to say, it was great. The quality of the training set this course apart. I highly recommend this course to anyone looking to step into the realm of self-employment. It's not just a course; it's an investment in your future success."

    Pete, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "Ohhh my gosh, What a Six Weeks!! Trainer Craig was so helpful with tons of knowledge and easy to ask questions. And special thanks to David who helped me to complete Financial Plan. I met quite a few talented people through the course. Reckon I got very good friends, too! Highly recommend to everyone who is considering starting their own business!!"

    Mari, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    "Can’t speak highly enough of the 6 week Small Business Training. The value I got from the training well exceeded my expectations. I found the entire Auctus team to be very professional and my overall experience of the training to be empowering as well as fun. Thanks again Auctus!"

    Michael, Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

    Self-Employment Allowance

    The Self-Employment Allowance is designed to provide you with income support whilst you get your business up and running.
    Can I receive the Self-Employment Allowance?
    • Participants currently on Job Seeker payment will receive the Self-Employment Allowance for up to 39 weeks (paid fortnightly) and may be eligible to receive Rental Assistance for up to 26 weeks.
    • Participants on SSP or DSP payments can choose to continue to receive their current Pension or choose to receive the Self-Employment Allowance to up to 39 weeks (paid fortnightly) instead.
    What if I am not receiving income support?
    • Even if you're not receiving income support payments, you can still access the same training and mentoring support to help you grow your own business.
    • You can receive free accredited training in small business and 12 months of business coaching and mentoring.
    • However, you won't be eligible to receive ongoing income support through the Self-Employment Allowance.

    Apply for Self-Employment Allowance

    Want to know more about the Self-Employment Allowance? Contact our team to learn more.

    Read the success stories

    The success stories from this program highlight unique individuals who transformed their skills and passions into the thriving businesses which you can see today. Take a look at their journey!

    Success stories Success stories

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