Small Business

Do you have an idea for a small business in Esperance? The Shire Small Business Team will help you navigate the various local government approvals and processes. Depending on your business idea, approval may be required from Planning Services, Environmental Health or Building Services.

The Small Business Team can advise you on next steps, complete the form below. You will then receive a Self-Assessment Checklist via email that tells us all about your small business plans. We can then advise you on the various department (if any) that may require further information.  

See the Small Business process below for an indication of timeframes and fees. 

The Shire of Esperance is committed to supporting local businesses in Esperance and encourages all existing and potential business owners and investors to contact the Shire or representative agencies for access to a wide range of resources or answers to specific queries. The Shire of Esperance has signed the Small Business Friendly Local Governments Charter.

The Small Business Friendly Local Governments initiative recognises local governments who are committed to working with and supporting local small businesses.

Statutory Services

This Shire department can offer you assistance when looking at commencing a new business or investment opportunity. Ranging from ensuring the proposed activity is permitted under Local Planning Schemes through to approving premises for commercial activities. It is a great place to start your journey when looking at opening a new business in Esperance. Would you like more information on how the Shire can help you? Do you have an idea or suggestion on how we can improve services to small businesses?  Don't hesitate to contact Shire Staff via email on shire@esperance.wa.gov.au or call on 9071 0666.

Building and Planning information for the Shire can be found on this website or alternatively call to speak to a friendly staff member on 9071 0666 or call in to the Shire Administration Building.

Esperance Chamber of Commerce and Industry

The Esperance Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) is a not-for-profit organisation, working as the voice for private enterprise in Esperance.  Their Mission is to help cultivate an environment in the Esperance Region where businesses, new or existing, can thrive.

As the peak representative body of the Esperance business community, the Chamber lobbies on behalf of members to ensure that the business community in Esperance has a strong and respected voice. The Chamber works collaboratively with organisations, aiming to advance the need of the business community in Esperance. 

Goldfields-Esperance Development Corporation

The aim of the Goldfields-Esperance Development Corporation (GEDC) is to make the region an even greater place to live, work and invest and the GEDC works with business, industry, the community and government to achieve this goal.

The GEDC maintains up to date Economic and Community profiles on the Shire and the Goldfields Esperance region. Advice on investment, funding opportunities and advocacy at a State Government level are some of the tasks undertaken by the local GEDC office.

Small Business Development Corporation

If you own or are looking at setting up a new business the Small Business Development Corporation has a diverse range of material that can assist you on your way. The Corporation offers free advice for small businesses, runs workshops and has a significant amount of helpful information and templates on the website.