Starting or growing a business in New South Wales doesn’t have to be a solo effort. The NSW Government, through Service NSW, offers a streamlined and highly supportive pathway for business owners to access relevant government programs, funding opportunities, licenses, and advisory services. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or an established business owner navigating challenges, Service NSW can serve as your trusted government partner.
This detailed guide walks you through every step of how to access government support with Service NSW—from initial engagement to securing real results.
Step 1: Understand What Support Is Available
Service NSW offers access to a wide variety of government programs and support services designed for different business needs and stages. These include:
- Business setup assistance – Help with registration, structure, tax, and legal basics
- Licensing and permits – Guidance on applications specific to your industry
- Grants and financial aid – Current and upcoming funding programs
- Export and trade support – Tools for going global with your business
- Disaster recovery support – Emergency funding and continuity guidance
- Access to government contracts – Support to become a supplier to NSW Government
All of these services are curated in one place and available through one-on-one guidance with the Business Concierge team.
Step 2: Connect with a Business Concierge
The most effective way to start is by booking a free consultation with a Business Concierge—your dedicated guide to accessing the right programs. Here’s how:
- Visit the Service NSW for Business website
- Click on “Connect with a Business Concierge”
- Choose to book online, call 13 77 88, or visit a local Service NSW Centre
- Prepare basic information about your business, such as ABN, location, and type of services/products
Once connected, a Business Concierge will review your business needs and help you identify programs and grants that match your profile.
Step 3: Receive a Tailored Support Plan
After your initial conversation, your Business Concierge will send you a customised roadmap that may include:
- Relevant funding programs and how to apply
- Business licence requirements specific to your sector
- Tools to digitise or improve operations
- Recommendations for upskilling or workforce support
- Steps to expand into new markets or export channels
Each plan is unique and developed based on your business lifecycle stage, industry, and strategic goals.
Step 4: Apply for Government Grants and Programs
Once you’ve identified the right programs, your Business Concierge will help you gather the necessary documentation and walk you through the application process. Common documents needed include:
- ABN and GST registration details
- Business plan or summary
- Financial statements or forecasts
- Proof of business location (leases, utility bills, etc.)
- Insurance certificates (if required)
Popular programs include:
- Small Business Fees and Charges Rebate
- Business Connect advisory services
- Export Assistance Grant
- Innovation Boost programs
- COVID-19 recovery and disaster funding packages
Service NSW helps ensure your application is complete and eligible, reducing the chance of rejection and delays.
Step 5: Track and Manage Your Support
Once you apply for any programs or support, Service NSW provides an online portal where you can track your application, receive correspondence, and upload any additional documents. Your assigned Business Concierge will continue to follow up until the matter is resolved.
You can also access self-serve tools such as:
- Eligibility checkers for new programs
- Live chat and callback request features
- Knowledge base articles for DIY guidance
Step 6: Scale and Grow with Confidence
Service NSW support doesn’t stop once you get funded or registered. They remain available to help you grow your business sustainably, whether that means:
- Recruiting and training new staff
- Expanding into new locations or regions
- Launching online sales channels
- Engaging in government procurement opportunities
- Attending trade shows or industry expos through NSW support
For many business owners, this ongoing relationship is what makes Service NSW truly valuable as a long-term partner.
Bonus: Tailored Support for Specific Business Groups
Service NSW also recognises the importance of diversity and inclusion in the business ecosystem. Specialised programs and outreach are available for:
👩 Women in Business
- Mentorship programs and female entrepreneur networks
- Childcare support and flexible work funding
🌏 Multicultural Businesses
- Translated resources and multilingual guidance
- Programs designed for migrant and refugee business owners
🖤 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Businesses
- Support through the Aboriginal Procurement Policy
- Business capability building and grant access
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step with Confidence
Whether you’re launching a new venture, recovering from a disaster, or planning to expand abroad, accessing government support through Service NSW is one of the smartest first steps you can take.
With personalised advice, streamlined access to grants, and ongoing business concierge services, Service NSW ensures you’re never navigating the business landscape alone. The path to success is clearer, faster, and more manageable when you have the right support.
📣 Want to Share Your Experience or Publish a Guest Blog?
If you’ve used Service NSW to grow your business and want to inspire others—or if you’re a business advisor with insights to share—we welcome your guest blog contributions.
📧 Reach out at [email protected] to feature your story on our platform.
Let’s help more entrepreneurs in NSW thrive—together.
