All the Whats, Whys and Hows of Running a Successful Independent Business
The life of a sole trader among the Australian business landscape can sometimes mirror the history of our country. It’s a story of resilience, innovation – and adventure.
It’s also hard work, with its own unique challenges.
We figure you’ve got the determination to face these challenges, but maybe you’re reading this because you have a sense that there are better ways to meet them.
And there are.
So let’s talk about how to utilise business planning to not only strike out on your own but put down your stakes.
But first, we need to get clear on everything that your life as a sole trader might entail.
The Sole Trader in Australia is Both Free and Potentially at Risk
It’s a tradeoff, right? Maybe you’re used to those.
But there can be business repercussions to the sole trader’s way of operating that could impact your personal life. Before we get to how to wrangle those, it can be helpful to gain a firm understanding of why that’s the case.
What is An Example of a Sole Trader in Australia?
In Australia, a sole trader is an individual running their business independently. It’s a business structure that offers simplicity and direct control, where you are the decision-maker, enjoying the profits (and directly owning all risks).
As a sole trader, you embody your business from a legal point of view. Unlike companies or partnerships, where the business is a separate entity, in a sole trader setup there’s no legal difference between you and your business. This structure can be helpful especially in the earliest stages of business. There’s less paperwork and more time for getting to what’s most important.
The downside, though, is that risk.
As a sole trader, any debts your business incurs are your personal, legal and financial responsibility. In the eyes of the state and the broader business community, the link between you and your business is direct.
How Do I Pay Myself as a Sole Trader in Australia?
As a sole trader, paying yourself is straightforward. Your business’s profit is your income. After covering your business expenses, you can simply transfer the remaining funds into your personal account. Keep clear records of these transactions for tax purposes, though.
A decision to operate as (or remain) a sole trader could make sense if you prefer an uncomplicated setup, and depending on the general riskiness of your particular business, in terms of the potential legal and financial liabilities that might result from accidents or mistakes.
Key Characteristics of a Sole Trader
| Simple Setup and Management | Starting is easy. Begin quickly and manage simply. |
| Full Control | You’re the boss. Every choice is yours to make. |
| Personal Responsibility | The income is all yours. So are losses and debts. |
| Tax Responsibility | At tax time, you and your business are one and the same. You might be able to claim extra deductions, however. |
| Flexibility and Freedom | Work your way. Set your own hours. Chase what opportunities you want to chase. |
Is a Freelancer a Sole Trader in Australia?
In many cases, freelancers in Australia operate as sole traders. This setup allows them to run their independent services without the need for complex business structures, all while enjoying the flexibility that freelancing offers.
Sole tradership might be a better fit for bolder hearts, or owner-operators who treasure simplicity. Either way, it’s also important to understand how the challenges it also entails might play out, and to prepare as best you can to address them.
Taxes are a good place to start, in that discussion.
Do Sole Traders Pay Tax in Australia?
Sole traders in Australia pay tax on their business earnings as part of their personal income. It’s essential to maintain accurate financial records and declare all business income on your personal tax return. Remember, keeping track of expenses can lead to tax deductions, potentially reducing your overall tax liability.
How to Navigate Legal and Tax Obligations as a Sole Trader
There are a few details to keep in mind as an Australian sole trader, when it comes to legal and tax rules that apply to your business.
Do I Need an ABN as a Sole Trader?
Yes. Grab your Australian Business Number (ABN) sooner than later. While your business’s income and expenses are tied to your personal taxes, an ABN helps identify your business in official matters. It’s a unique identifier that simplifies tax and other government-related processes, distinguishing you as a legitimate and operational business entity. There’s no cost to getting an ABN and the process is straightforward.
Can a Foreigner Be A Sole Trader in Australia?
Foreigners can be sole traders in Australia, subject to meeting specific legal requirements. Be sure to get clear on what those may be, by consulting with an accountant and/or lawyer if exploring this possibility. Non-Australian residents will need a valid visa to obtain an ABN.
Tip: Watch out for GST!
If your business brings in more than $75,000, you’ll need to charge a Goods and Services Tax (GST). It’s a little extra work (including registering to collect it), but you can get GST back on business purchases.
The main takeaway for sole traders, when it comes to taxes? Yes, you have to follow the rules. But there are also ways to make the rules work for you and your business. And they aren’t limited to optimising for tax time.
Practical Strategies for Boosting Efficiency in Your Sole Trader Business
Running a small business requires a lot of juggling. It can get hard to know where to gain back time. But here are some proven tactics to test, all of which should link up in a fairly direct way to improving your financial health as a business owner as well.
Hands-On Time Management
Effective time management buys back space for growing your business. Here are some practical tips for improving in this area:
- Delegate Smartly: If you employ contractors or other help, use such resources wisely. Delegate tasks based on the strengths of each contributor. This not only frees up time but empowers the people helping you.
- Efficient Scheduling: Plan your days around your business’s peak hours. Schedule administrative or personal tasks during quieter periods, so you can be available when your business needs you most.
- Customer Flow: If you have a store or a physical space, consider how its layout manages customer flow. A well organised and thoughtfully laid-out space can lead to more efficient service and happier customers.
Use Tech to Simplify Things
While not every business needs the latest technology, there’s often a case to be made today for employing new solutions that save money and time, at relatively low costs.
Examples might include:
- Point of Sale (POS) Systems: A good POS system can speed up transactions, manage inventory, and even offer insights into your sales patterns. Research options and select one that has features that best match your business.
- Basic Accounting Software: If you’re already using accounting software, make sure you’re using it to its full potential to track your finances and understand your business’s financial health. If you aren’t, consider trying out some software, or outsource your accounting to a trusted advisor. At First Class Bookkeepers (FCA) we can help with the setup and use of all popular solutions, including Xero and Quickbooks.
- Social Media Marketing: Use social channels to connect with your community, showcase your products or services, and drive foot traffic. In today’s modernised business environment, this is arguably more of a must than a nice-to-have at this point.
When to Call On Professional Support
As a sole trader, you’re at the helm of your business, balancing multiple responsibilities daily. But, especially with success, a time may come when professional support is needed to continue this balancing act.
Bookkeeping is often a good first step when it comes to bringing in outside support for your sole trader business. In addition to bringing clarity to your profit and loss statements and your tax planning, it can also provide a foundation for more insightful and effective business planning.
Tailored Support for Real Business Needs
Effective accounting support for a sole trader doesn’t usually match up to a one-size-fits-all approach. More likely, your unique business needs will require a tailored solution.
This might look like:
- Help with day-to-day financial management
- Assistance with navigating tax requirements
- Accurate insights for making informed growth decisions
FCA: Partnering in Your Business Journey
First Class Accounts (FCA) offers this kind of custom support. Our network of expert bookkeepers includes many professionals who can meet your specific needs as a sole trader, from managing your books to offering strategic business advice.
A partnership with FCA can be a significant step in streamlining your operations and guiding your business toward growth. Your success as a sole trader is our success.
So let’s talk and get you ready to grow.
