-=> Quoting Phil Jones to All <=-

 PJ> Can anyone suggest anywhere a guy can get some sort of assistance
 PJ> ($$) when starting a small business ?? Are there organisations that
 PJ> can help. I have looked at the NEISS scheme but because I'm not on the
 PJ> dole I don't qualify ?? I'm a student who has just started my own
 PJ> business .... 
 PJ> God the government makes it HARD !!!!!

There are no freebies around, Phil.  Getting a business going is never
easy, and the sooner one learns that lesson the better.  Governments
have tried various help schemes but they get rorted and usually end in
lots of money going down the drain.  Basically, you have to do it the
hard way, and I agree with this (I run my own consulting business).  I
think it is looking for failure if you start out with the attitude of
"where can I get a handout?".  Maybe you are not that type, and I
apologise if I have offended you.

My advice is to network with others of similar interests and learn from
their experience.  Quite some time ago Tessa on this BBS mentioned a
small business group she belongs to.  You may want to try something like
that to find others with similar interests.  If you give us an idea of
the business you plan to start, we can give more specific advice.

Another thing before you commit your money:  Test if you are really
suited to the business you plan to start.  The Small Business Advisory
Centre can show you checklists.  Also, Information Victoria in the city
has lots of literature on various businesses.

It can all look easy and glamorous when dreaming in the lounge room, but
the reality is hard slog, long hours, disrupted social/family life etc etc.

This all sounds a bit negative, Phil.  But I have seen plenty of
starry-eyed businesses go belly up.  I think the stats are that 60% of
all new businesses fail within the first couple of years.  If you have
determination and enthusiasm you will do OK.  Good luck.

Rgds

Bob

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