See what three levels of government, regulators and insurers actually take from a small business — by location, business type and structure, across 583 council areas.
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Last updated 23 August 2026
The Cost of Doing Business calculator (“the Tool”) is a free, indicative model of the government, regulatory and compliance costs that may apply to a small business in Australia. It is provided for general information, illustration and education only.
Nothing produced by the Tool is legal, accounting, taxation, financial or other professional advice, and it must not be relied on as a substitute for advice from a qualified professional. No client, advisory or fiduciary relationship is created by your use of the Tool. You should obtain your own advice from a registered tax agent, accountant or lawyer before making any decision.
The Tool, its cost engine and its underlying data were assembled with the assistance of artificial intelligence. Figures are estimates only and may be incomplete, out of date or incorrect. Rates, thresholds, levies, duties and council charges change frequently and vary according to individual circumstances. You must independently verify any figure against its original source before using or relying on it.
Inputs are drawn from publicly available material including the Australian Taxation Office, Fair Work Commission, ASIC, state and territory revenue offices, published council rating resolutions, and government spatial data. No warranty is given as to the accuracy, completeness or currency of that material or of any output.
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This is an indicative model, not advice. The figures shown are estimates generated by a calculator for illustrative and educational purposes only. They are not legal, accounting, taxation or financial advice, and must not be relied on for any decision about your business.
Built with the assistance of AI. This tool, its cost engine and its underlying data were assembled with AI assistance. Figures may be incomplete, out of date or simply wrong. Rates, thresholds, levies and council charges change regularly and vary by individual circumstance.
Verify before you use it. Always confirm any figure against the original source and speak to a registered tax agent, accountant or lawyer about your own situation before acting.
Sources. Inputs are drawn from publicly available material including the ATO, Fair Work Commission, ASIC, state and territory revenue offices, published council rating resolutions, and government spatial data (Geoscape / Geoscience Australia and state land agencies). No warranty is given as to accuracy, completeness or currency.