This year marks a proud milestone: the 40th anniversary of the Australian Government’s long running self-employment initiative, now known as Self-Employment Assistance.
Beginning in 1985, the program started as a small-scale support scheme to empower Australians across the country to become small business owners, be their own boss and support the economy’s growth.
The program has grown from a modest pilot supporting 600 participants, into a nationwide initiative that has helped more than 250,000 Australians turn their ideas into businesses, placing it as the longest-running federal employment initiative of its kind.
Operating across 51 regions, it provides an alternative to traditional employment and supports people facing barriers, with strong outcomes for women, culturally diverse participants, and those with mental health challenges.
The program officially re-branded on 1 July 2022 (replacing the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme), and the core purpose remained: helping individuals transition from jobseeker or part-time workers to viable business owners.
Through thousands of workshops, mentoring sessions and tailored one-on-one support, Self-Employment Assistance has helped Australians transform their ideas into thriving businesses.
There have been a diverse range of businesses, from various industries, able to get off the ground with the help of Self-Employment Assistance. From bakers to music producers, the industries that have seen the most business start-ups through the program are*:
- Personal services
- Professional, scientific, technical services
- Retail
- Health
- Arts and recreation
* Self-Employment Assistance data – Small Business Coaching by Industry as of 30 September 2025.
The success of Self-Employment Assistance is built on the dedication of providers delivering hands-on support to participants across Australia.
These aren’t just numbers. These are real people with real stories who have embarked on journeys to achieve their dreams and have turned their passion into a business. The program has supported a diverse range of businesses, from budding fashion designers to travel tour guides and foodies.
This milestone is not just a celebration of the program’s longevity; it is recognising the impact it’s had on the Australian economy and people who were able to become self-sufficient and run their own small business.
Read about people’s experiences with Self-Employment Assistance: www.dewr.gov.au/articles/self-employment-assistance
More information
Self-Employment Assistance helps eligible Australians turn their business idea or existing small business into a viable business. The support available includes:
- Exploring Self-Employment Workshops
- Business Plan Development
- Accredited Small Business Training
- Business Advice Sessions
- Business Health Checks
- Small Business Coaching.
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