Business Opportunities

Are you interested in starting an online business?

Get connected

To get your online business started you will need:

• a computer
• software that enables you to send emails, browse the web and keep your computer secure
• an email and website account set up
• training in using your new computer and software.

Once you’ve bought your equipment, you’re ready to plan, design and build your website. A well-planned and designed website will make it easier for you to do business, not only with your customers but also with your suppliers.

You also need to let your current and potential customers know about your new website. Ensure that you include your website details on all your promotional material.

Register your business name

Although you are doing business online, you may still need to register a business name with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission and apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Register your domain name

A domain name gives your online business a unique electronic address. You can arrange to buy a domain name yourself or through an internet service provider (ISP).

If you wish to buy a .com.au or .net.au domain name, you must be a commercial entity and possess either an ACN or ABN. For more information on domain name registration, see the .au Domain Administration Ltd (.auDA) website.

Secure your website 

Once your business is connected to the internet, it's your responsibility to protect your business data and information against unwanted intruders. Sensitive information such as customer details, pricing lists, and personal records can all be stolen, corrupted or even destroyed unless protected properly.

You should ensure that your connection to the internet is secure. Some issues to consider when securing your website are:

• working procedures
• virus and spyware protection software
• firewalls
• back up data
• using secure passwords.

Legal & consumer obligations 

The legal aspects of e-business are all about managing risks. It is important to ensure your website contains accurate information that complies with current law. Good online business practices will encourage customers to come back to your website.

Misleading or deceptive conduct is illegal under the consumer provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (CCA) (formerly known as theTrade Practices Act 1974). If you're conducting online transactions with your customers or just putting information about your business or your products up on the internet, make sure the material complies with the CCA.

There are a number of federal online resources to help you comply with the legal aspects of e-business, including information on managing legal issues  and tips for a good online business

You should also make sure you are aware of the fair trading requirements of running an online business – read about the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's advice on dealing with other businesses online .

Intellectual property 

Various intellectual property issues will arise with respect to your online business. It’s important to identify the intellectual property issues that apply to your e-business, like trademarks, copyright and patents.

IP Australia is the federal government agency that grants patents, registers designs and trademarks and provides protection for intellectual property. When setting up your online business, it may be useful for you to consult IP Australia to help you determine your intellectual property rights and obligations.

Privacy  

The Privacy Act 1988 regulates the way that businesses can collect, use, keep secure and disclose personal information. When you are using the internet for business you must ensure that you abide by these laws.

Buying & selling online 

Buying and selling your goods and services online can be a profitable way of doing business. Setting up an e-commerce system on your website or joining an e-marketplace can help you increase your customers within Australia, and help your business expand overseas.

To operate a successful online store, it's important that you are aware of your business obligations. Because you will be undertaking financial transactions, it's crucial that your online business is secure from risks such as hacking or viruses. You should ensure that your online shop contains clear information on processes such as ordering

and payment, refunds, warranties, and privacy and security.

E-marketplaces

Another way you can buy and sell online is through an e-marketplace. These online trading communities may provide you with greater access to suppliers and buyers, a more open trading environment, and the potential to lower costs involved with your business transactions.

Dealing with suppliers

When buying goods or services from an online supplier, check that you are dealing with a reputable company. Ensure that they provide contact and business registration details and secure payment facilities, and print out copies of any transactions you make.

Spam 

Spam is electronic junk mail - unwanted messages sent to your email account or mobile phone. It can be a costly and inconvenient nuisance to your business.

Under the Spam Act 2003 it is illegal to send unsolicited commercial electronic messages. To ensure your business keeps within the law, there are three key issues to remember:

• Consent - Your commercial messages should only be sent when you have the consent of the addressee.
• Identify - Your commercial messages should include clear and accurate information about who is responsible for sending the message and how they can be contacted.
• Unsubscribe - Your commercial messages should include an unsubscribe facility and requests should be dealt with promptly.

Source: Business.gov.au