arts-e resources - PDF 3 MB - Arts Tasmania - Tasmania Online

Business
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Organisational structures
and starting an arts business
When setting up an arts business, you will need to consider the business
structure that is most appropriate to your arts practice. There are six different
structures available: sole trader, a partnership or limited partnership, trust,
proprietary limited company, incorporated association and co-operative.
There are some factors you should take into account when choosing the structure
most suitable for you, including the legitimate minimisation of tax, fees and
costs applicable, protection of assets and protection of those involved with
your operation. The following resources will assist your understanding of each
of these options.
Artistcareer
Artistcareer provides business information and advice for visual art, craft and design
practitioners. Visit the ‘Knowing Your Business’ page for helpful resources.
— www.artistcareer.com.au
Australian Business Register (ABR)
The ABR makes it easier for businesses to interact using a unique identifier. The Australian
Business Number (ABN) is the starting point for most business activity and will be a first
port of call for many arts businesses.
— www.abr.gov.au
Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
ASIC provides information that will help you to decide on a business structure.
— www.asic.gov.au
business.gov.au
business.gov.au has a comprehensive index of resources, from getting started, registering
your business and planning.
— www.business.gov.au
State of the Arts
The State of the Arts website is a resource covering theatre, music, dance, design, books,
film, festivals and visual arts. The State of the Arts has a comprehensive web contact list of
Australian and New Zealand-based companies.
— www.stateart.com.au/sota/
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Business planning
Whether a sole trader, a company or an incorporated not-for-profit, business
planning encompasses all the goals, strategies and actions that you envision
taking to ensure your business’s survival and growth. The business plan isn’t
a do-it-and-forget-it exercise, but a living document that needs to be updated
throughout the lifecycle of your business. When applying to Arts Tasmania for
an Assistance to Organisations Grant, a business planning template is provided
to help you develop your application.
Arts Tasmania - business planning template
Arts Tasmania’s Assistance to Organisations funding application is built around the
development of a business plan. A template is provided for an arts business plan, which
relates to the Australia Council’s Business Planning Framework.
— www.arts.tas.gov.au/organisations
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