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Business Location

Before Committing to a Site or Premises

Choosing the right location for your business involves more than just finding a good spot, you’ll need to consider zoning, access, growth potential, and health and safety regulations.

Tip: We offer free pre-lodgement meetings to help you understand the permits and approvals you may need before you commit.

It's strongly recommended that you secure planning and building approvals before signing a lease or buying a property. If that’s not possible, ensure your contract is conditional upon Council approval to avoid costly surprises later on.

Commercial premises

If you’re planning to operate from a permanent commercial location, it’s important to understand your options and obligations.

Explore available spaces via:

Need help? The Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) offers excellent tools and advice to support you through the process, from understanding lease terms to negotiating conditions and managing responsibilities. 

Visit the SBDC Business Premises or Business.gov.au pages for in-depth guidance.

Choosing the Right Business Location: What to Consider

Before committing to a space, you should also be able to confidently answer the following questions:

Prioritise your needs by separating "must-haves" from "nice-to-haves". This will help you stay focused when evaluating locations.

To download and print these considerations: Location Checklist

Location

  1. Do I need to be close to my customers?

  2. Is high foot traffic important for my business?

  3. Should the location be accessible via public transport or suitable for delivery vehicles?

  4. Is parking available nearby?

  5. Are there competing or complementary businesses nearby?

  6. Does the area have a good reputation and align with my brand image?

  7. Are there local regulations or restrictions that could affect operations?

  8. Is the location prone to flooding or other environmental risks?

  9. Will the area support my target demographic (e.g. age, income, interests)?

Size and Layout

  1. How much space do I need for operations, equipment, storage, and customers?

  2. Do I need an open-plan layout or private rooms?

  3. Will I need a separate office or admin area?

  4. Will the layout support both customer experience and staff workflow?

  5. Can I accommodate accessibility needs (e.g. ramps, wide aisles)?

  6. Is there room for meeting or consultation spaces if needed?

  7. Will I need signage or display space, and is it available?

  8. Does the space allow for safe movement of people and goods?

Cost

  1. What is my budget for rent, utilities (electricity, water, internet), and ongoing costs?

  2. Am I looking for a short-term flexible lease or a long-term commitment?

  3. How much can I invest in a fit-out before I begin trading?

  4. Are there hidden costs, such as strata fees, maintenance, or security?

  5. What are the up-front costs (bond, fit-out, setup)?

  6. Are there incentives or grants available to offset setup costs?

  7. Can I afford this space if revenue is lower than projected in the first 6–12 months?

  8. Will utilities and insurance costs vary significantly by location?

Facilities and Utilities

  1. Is waste disposal (including recycling or trade waste) available?

  2. Is there adequate lighting and ventilation for my business type?

  3. Can I install the fittings or signage I need?

  4. Are loading docks or delivery areas available if needed?

  5. Is the property accessible after hours, if required?

  6. Do I need fast internet, specialised equipment, or specific power access?

  7. Will I need kitchen facilities or bathrooms?

Compliance

  1. Is this property zoned for my type of business?

  2. Can I obtain the necessary permits to operate from here?

  3. Will renovations or changes to the layout require planning approval?

  4. Are there fire safety requirements I need to meet?

  5. Does the premises meet accessibility and disability access standards?

  6. Is there an existing occupancy permit that suits my business type?

  7. Are there noise or operating hour restrictions in this location?

Future Growth

  1. Can this space support my business as it grows?

  2. Is the layout adaptable if my needs change?

  3. Is there potential to lease adjacent space if expansion is needed?

  4. Will the location remain viable if market trends change?

  5. Can I sublease part of the premises if needed?

  6. Does the local population or traffic flow show signs of growth?

  7. Are there long-term infrastructure or development plans nearby that could affect business?

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