Start a Business in Perth

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 7 permits⏱ 2-8 weeks💰 $200-$500+ (food registration, alfresco dining, signage)

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Overview

Starting a business in Perth requires a Business Registration / Planning Approval through the City of Perth. Base fee: $200-$500+ (food registration, alfresco dining, signage). Master Business License system is unique — one application for multiple registrations. But does NOT cover all city licenses.

Required Permits

✓Federal: ABN registration (free, instant at abr.gov.au)
✓Federal: TFN (Tax File Number, free)
✓Federal: GST registration (if turnover >$75K)
✓State: Business name registration with ASIC ($39/year)
✓Local: Council business registration / planning permit
✓Local: Food premises registration (if food — council health dept)
✓State: Liquor licence (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Process

1

Federal: ABN registration (free, instant at abr.gov.au)

2

Federal: TFN (Tax File Number, free)

3

Federal: GST registration (if turnover >$75K)

4

State: Business name registration with ASIC ($39/year)

5

Local: Council business registration / planning permit

6

Local: Food premises registration (if food — council health dept)

7

State: Liquor licence (if applicable)

Costs

Estimated total: $200-$500+ (food registration, alfresco dining, signage) depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

City of Perth

Phone: 08 9461 3333

Council House, 27 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Food business registration fees: $105 application + $54.50 assessment + $110 pre-inspection
⚠ Risk-based classification: P1 (high risk) to P3 (low risk) — inspection frequency and fees scale with risk
⚠ Online registration portal with separate forms for new business, takeover, mobile, and temporary vendors
⚠ Planning approval may be required for kitchen fit-out, ventilation changes, or wall modifications
⚠ Small bar licensing popular — WA introduced category for venues under 120 capacity
⚠ Alfresco dining permits for outdoor seating — strict furniture placement guidelines

Choose Your Business Type

RestaurantFood TruckBarber ShopRetail StoreCoffee ShopBar / NightclubGym / Fitness StudioNail SalonCannabis DispensaryDog GroomingBakeryCleaning ServiceDaycare CenterAuto Repair Shop

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