Fact

Helping your business crawl, walk then run...

New Enterprise Incentive Scheme

About NEIS

New Enterprise Incentive Scheme

NEIS is a great initiative of the Federal Government that provides assistance to Centrelink clients who are looking to become independently supported. NEIS gives you small business training, income support and advice during the first year of your business, and will help you to develop the skills and plan needed to ensure that your business can survive and grow.

Operating since 1985, it is one of Australia's most successful employment projects, with the single goal of helping individuals create profitable, sustainable businesses. More than 100,000 individuals have completed the program, and more than 80% of businesses are still operating after the first 15 months.

This Help Includes:

  • training in small business management, business skills and business plan development
  • income support for up to 52 weeks
  • business advice and mentor support during the first year of business operation


As part of your training, NEIS will help you develop a business plan, which needs to be approved before you can start your business with NEIS assistance.

Will It Cost Me Anything?

While the training is funded by the Commonwealth Government, you may incur some minor costs associated with travel (for training) and publishing your business plan.

Eligibility for NEIS

To participate in NEIS you must:

  • be 18 years or older
  • be receiving a qualifying income support payment from Centrelink or the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR)
  • be available to train and work full-time in the business

To confirm your eligibility please contact Business Growth Centre.

Your business must:

  • not have operated on a commercial basis before
  • be independent, lawful and reputable
  • not compete directly with an existing business, unless it can be demonstrated that there is an unsatisfied demand for the products/service, or the products/service are to be provided in a new way
  • not involve the purchase or takeover of an existing business
  • be established, located and operated solely within Australia

To discuss if your business idea is eligible, please contact Business Growth Centre.

How Do I Apply?

Contact Business Growth Centre on 02 4942 3133

 

Links

Thinking of Starting a Business

Helpful guides and templates.


ACCC Consumer Guarantee Laws

Consumer responsibilities as of 1 Jan 2011.


Starting a Business

Information on starting a new business.


Franchising

Everything you need to know.  


External Links

BEC Australia
NSW Trade & Investment
National NEIS Association
IBSA
New Hunter Business
Hunter Region BEC
Hunter Business Centre
Ausindustry
ASQA
DET
business.gov.au