Online Training and Resources
Council often partners with industry experts to run business workshops throughout our region. When possible, we make recordings and resources available for those unable to attend in person. A range of online training videos from some of our recent workshops can be viewed below.
Western Downs Youth Business Program
Our free ten-part Western Downs Youth Business Program (Launch+ series) steps you through some of the key things you need to know to launch a business as a young person – including building your own Business Models Canvas, branding, marketing, competitor analysis, nailing your value proposition, funding, pitching and more.
This program is delivered in partnership between Western Downs Regional Council and Future Anything.
Welcome to Western Downs Youth Business Program
Introduction delivered in partnership with Future Anything.
Episode One
In this first episode, we run through everything you need to know to make the most of the next nine episodes.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 25 minutes
Episode Two
In this second episode, we run through:
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 25 minutes
Episode Three
In this third episode, we unpack the competitor analysis and unique value proposition.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 60-90 minutes
Resources:
Episode Four
In this fourth episode, we unpack customer personas and customer channels.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 50 minutes
Resources:
Episode Five
In this fifth episode, we unpack branding and marketing.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 60 minutes
Resources:
Episode Six
In this sixth episode, we crunch your numbers to make sure you have a financially viable business model.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 60 – 90 minutes
Resources:
Episode Seven
In this seventh episode, we work with epic Accountant, Nicola, to unpack a whole bunch of really important things that you need to know to make sure you’re set up for success- including business structures, record keeping, IP, and Tax.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 30-60 minutes.
Resources:
Business Structure
Find more information about different business structures here. Each structure has different tax implications so it is best to discuss your situation with an accountant.
Record Keeping & Bookkeeping:
Please find some online bookkeeping services below (note they are listed in order of pricing and sophistication (low to high): Wave | QuickBooks | MYOB | Xero
Organisation tools:
Here are five tools to help with you with day-to-day business management:
- Apps such as Trello/Asana can be used to help keep your workflow on track throughout the day
- Back up your work in the cloud so that you can access your files at any time
- Slack or Google Hangouts are great internal messaging and notice tools
- Software such as OneNote is a great place to document your business processes (can access online and is more dynamic than MS Word)
- An online calendar whether it be through your emails or another provider will help you stay on track and help others in your business to collaborate with you more effectively.
Registrations:
Find some more information about different registrations at:
www.business.gov.au/registrations | www.register.business.gov.au/
An accountant will be able to advise you on the relevant registrations for your business and help you apply for them.
Licences & Permits:
Register Licenses & Permits | Business Licenses & Permits | Australian Business Licensing and Information Service
Undertake this short questionnaire which will help you to determine which licences (if any) are relevant to your business.
Insurance:
Find some more information about different business insurances. We recommend you talk to an expert in this area.
Intellectual Property:
Intellectual Property | Intellectual Property Explained
A lawyer can help you to protect your intellectual property.
Episode Eight
In this eighth episode, we unpack how to pitch your idea.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 30 – 45 minutes.
Resources:
Episode Nine
In this ninth episode, we unpack how to get some funding to launch your idea, including crowdfunding, grants and sponsorships.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 20- 30 minutes
Episode Ten
In this final episode, we run through a summary of everything covered and also unpack a few key pieces of advice to set you up for success.
Total length of time required to deliver this episode: 10-15 minutes.
Google Your Business
Watch the below Google My Business recorded workshop and discover what your customers are already searching for, learn to use free online promotion tools and hear useful tips and tricks to fit online marketing into your busy schedule.