ABS Institute

One of the most common questions we hear is, "Will my business idea qualify?"

The reality is that successful businesses come in all shapes and sizes. What matters most is having a clear plan, a genuine commitment to making it work, and a pathway to building something sustainable.

If you've got an idea but aren't sure where to start, we're here to help you explore its potential.

Every successful business starts somewhere 💪

At ABS Institute, we're here to support you at every stage of the journey, from your first idea to building a sustainable business.

It was a privilege to inspire students today at the 2026 Serpentine Jarrahdale Career and Enterprise Expo. Encouraging young people to think differently, dream big, and explore the possibility of creating their own future as entrepreneurs, business owners, and innovators is always rewarding.

Starting a business can feel overwhelming, especially when it's not something you planned for.

After being made redundant, Amy decided to take a different path.

With support from the Self-Employment Assistance program at ABS Institute, she transformed her passion for creativity into Craft and Canvas, a Perth-based mobile business offering paint and craft experiences for people of all ages.

Through business training, mentoring and personalised support, Amy gained the confidence and skills needed to launch and grow her business.

Today, Craft and Canvas is helping bring people together through creative workshops across Perth, with exciting plans for the future.

"Overall, my experience with the Self-Employment Assistance program has been extremely positive and genuinely valuable in helping me turn my idea into a real, sustainable business."

Congratulations Amy on everything you've achieved so far.

We're excited to be exhibiting at the Perth Tradie Expo this June.

If you're thinking about starting your own business, growing an existing one, or simply want to learn more about the support available, come and have a chat with the ABS Institute team.

📍 Ascot Racecourse
📅 12-14 June 2026
⏰ 8am-5pm

We look forward to meeting tradies, business owners and future entrepreneurs from across Perth.

Thank you MatchWorks for having ABS Institute at your 'All About You, Employable U Day.

We loved connecting with participants and inspiring new possibilities in self-employment.

Excited to see what’s next for them!

We had a great time at the Wanneroo Business & Community Expo last month.

Always good to get out and connect with the local community and chat to people about what's possible.

If you stopped by to say hello, it was great to meet you. And if you didn't get a chance to chat, we're always here - reach out to find out how our free small business support programs can help you take the next step.

We're heading to Koondoola on Monday 25 May for the Matchworks All About You Expo.

If you're in the area and thinking about your next chapter, come find the ABS Institute team.

Free support is available to help you take that first step toward self-employment.

We had a great time at the 2026 Rockingham Jobs Fair, hosted by the Rockingham Kwinana Chamber of Commerce at the Gary Holland Community Centre.

It was a fantastic event and great to be in the room alongside some familiar faces from the region. If you missed us on the day, we're always happy to chat about the free support available to help you explore self-employment or take that next step. Get in touch to find out more.

📷 Photo credit: City of Rockingham

If you’ve been retrenched, getting help early can make a difference. Free support is available to help you explore a business idea, develop a business plan and receive tailored small business coaching.

Contact us to find out more or visit whatsnext.dewr.gov.au