Business Activations
Bring customers in, showcase what you do, and keep it simple. Business Activations are small, very low impact event (refer to Event Impact Assessment Framework) held at your business premises. No event approval is required, just a quick notification so we can support you.
Best for: product launches, demos, mini-workshops, tastings, Q&A sessions, pop-up displays, meet-the-maker hours.
For more details refer to: Business Activation Guidelines
Notify us at: Business Activation Notification
Are you eligible? (Listed Criteria)
Your activation is likely eligible if all of the below are true:
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People: up to 50 attendees at any one time.
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Noise: noise levels must not negatively affect neighbouring properties.
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Temporary structures: no rides or amusements; no marquees over 9 m²; no stands/staging above 1m.
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Traffic & parking: must not impact traffic flow, road safety, or restrict parking access for the public.
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Alcohol: sales are not permitted.
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Food: normal food business approvals apply (e.g., food trucks/vendors must be approved).
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Timing: submit your notification at least 10 business days before your activation.
- Duty Of Care: business activation organisers hold a duty of care to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants, staff, and visitors. Organisers must also take reasonable measures to identify and mitigate foreseeable risks.
Can’t meet the criteria? Head to Holding an Event
Notify us about your Business Activation
Event Impact Assessment
Complimentary supply of alcohol by business: Liquor Act Exemptions
How it works (5 easy steps)
1. Plan your Business Activation
This is your opportunity to plan when you want to host your promotional activity, who you want to invite, what activities you want available on the day for attendees and how you're going to market your products or services.
2. Submit the notification form
Notify us of your activation by completing the short notification form online. Access the form at: www.northam.wa.gov.au/activationnotification. If your plans change after you submit the form, simply resubmit it.
3. Receive acknowledgement
Once you submit your business activation details, you will be sent an automated response. If your activation does not meet the Shire's Business Activation Guidelines you will be contacted by a member of the Engagement and Communications Team who will assist you with your submission.
4. Share your marketing
If you’d like some help spreading the word about your Business Activation, you can register your event on our website, so it appears on the Shire’s events calendar. This is a great way to reach people across the community who are looking for things to do around town.
You can also boost your reach by sharing your event on social media, putting up posters or flyers, and letting your existing customers know; sometimes word of mouth is the best promotion!
The Shire of Northam will not promote activations that reference alcohol in any media.
If you would like us to share your activation, you can email promotional material to communications@northam.wa.gov.au.
5. Run your activation
Go ahead as planned. Good luck with your business activation!
Notify us about your Business Activation
Submit your Event to our Calendar
Quick checklist (before you click submit)
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Activity stays inside your premises and won’t spill onto public roads/pathways.
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You can manage up to 50 people at a time (crowd flow, queues, entry/exit).
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Any alcohol offered is complimentary and complies with the Liquor Control Act 1988.
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You won’t use amplified sound or anything likely to disturb neighbours.
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No marquee over 9m², no stages/stands over 1m, no rides.
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Vendors (if any) will lodge their own trader/food approvals ≥ 10 business days ahead.
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You’ve considered accessibility (clear paths, seating if possible, accessible bathrooms where available).
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You have basic risk & safety measures (spill kits if needed, first-aid kit, sun/wet-weather plan).
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You’ll keep entries/exits, fire equipment, and loading zones clear.
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You’ll manage waste (bins, tidy-up after).
Food, trading & extras (what still needs approval)
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Food & Drink: If serving/selling food, normal food business approvals apply.
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Traders/Vendors: Each trader/food vendor must apply for the relevant permit ≥ 10 business days before trading.
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Signage: Temporary signage must be safe, on private property, and not obstruct sightlines.
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Photography/Filming: Get consent where required and follow privacy obligations.
Not sure which approvals you need? Contact us and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Submit the notification before hosting your activation. If we need anything else, a team member will contact you.
FAQs
Do I need event approval?
Not if you meet all the criteria above and submit the notification at least 10 business days prior.
What if my plans change?
Just resubmit the notification with updated details.
What if I expect more than 50 people or want amplified music?
That’s a larger event. Use the Event Application process and we’ll help you plan it.
Can I serve alcohol?
Alcohol sales are not permitted.
Complimentary alcohol service is allowed only within the provisions of the Liquor Control Act 1988.
For example, this exemption may apply to:
Vendors: who applies for permits?
Each vendor applies for their own permit(s). Build this into your timeline (≥ 10 business days).
Contact us
Updated 09.12.25