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For customers and clients, the choices you make for your location and premises will be major factors contributing to your business success. If you’re only interested in setting up a retail business premises, you may want to go straight to this Information Sheet.
 | Setting up and running a retail premises (PDF 154Kb) |
| Your guide to: buying or leasing a retail premises; rights and responsibilities for tenants and landlords; pre-lease documents; the term of a lease and increases in rent; planning and building permits; and dispute resolution. |
You need to know the basic questions to ask when researching possible locations for your business premises. You’re given resources to help you make the right choices about the area you’re setting up in and the specific properties you’re considering.
If you haven't made this critical decision, here’s a clear outline of reasons for buying your premises and reasons for leasing. The possible problems associated with each are also listed, as well as the pros and cons of leasing in a shopping centre.
If you've made the decision to buy rather than lease your business premises, here’s a range of online resources to help you purchase the right property. Depending on your plans for the premises, you may also need to contact the local council about planning and building permits.
If you're thinking of leasing your business premises, you'll find out what you need to know before you negotiate and sign a new lease. You're also introduced to the Office of the Victorian Small Business Commissioner which is there to help both tenants and landlords.
Your local council is the major regulator of home-based businesses. Find out if you'll need a council planning permit and what other guidelines there are when you run a business from home. You’ll also be alerted to the mistake often made with home-based business insurance.
Find out how to identify and apply for the permits, registrations and licences you're legally required to have before you can start trading. The other big questions are: whether to buy or lease vehicles and equipment, and what sort of insurance cover is right for your business.
Your health and safety responsibilities are explained, and you’re introduced to the support and practical advice provided by WorkSafe Victoria. You’re also introduced to fire safety in the workplace, and the importance of getting a fire safety inspection.
