New Hunter Business
265 King Street
Newcastle NSW 2300

Phone: (02) 4925 7704
Fax: (02) 4925 7755
Email: neis@businesscentre.com.au
TOLL FREE 1800 815 705

Training

The next NEIS course will be held shortly. Please contact New Hunter Business on 1800 815 705 to find out when the next NEIS course commences and its location.


Information Sessions

NEIS information sessions are held the first and third monday of the Month at
Hunter Business Centre
265 King St
NEWCASTLE

For further information on NEIS contact
New Hunter Business on 1800 815 705.

Or to book a place at one of the information sessions contact
Hunter Business Centre on 4925 7700.

If you are in the Hunter but not in Newcastle we offer information and advice about NEIS at other regions. Please call us to find one in your locality.

About NEIS

New Enterprise Incentive Scheme

NEIS is a great initiative of the Federal Government that provides assistance to Centrelink clients who are looking to become independently supported. NEIS gives you small business training, income support and advice during the first year of your business, and will help you to develop the skills and plan needed to ensure that your business can survive and grow.

Operating since 1985, it is one of Australia's most successful employment projects, with the single goal of helping individuals create profitable, sustainable businesses. More than 100,000 individuals have completed the program, and more than 80% of businesses are still operating after the first 15 months.

This Help Includes:

• training in small business management, business skills and business plan development
  
• income support for up to 52 weeks
  
• business advice and mentor support during the first year of business operation
  

As part of your training, NEIS will help you develop a business plan, which needs to be approved before you can start your business with NEIS assistance.

Will It Cost Me Anything?

While the training is funded by the Commonwealth Government, you may incur some minor costs associated with travel (for training) and publishing your business plan.

Eligibility for NEIS

To participate in NEIS you must:

• be 18 years or older
  
• be receiving a qualifying income support payment from Centrelink or the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR)
  
• be available to train and work full-time in the business
  

To confirm your eligibility please contact New Hunter Business.

Your business must:

• not have operated on a commercial basis before
  
• be independent, lawful and reputable
  
• not compete directly with an existing business, unless it can be demonstrated that there is an unsatisfied demand for the products/service, or the products/service are to be provided in a new way
  
• not involve the purchase or takeover of an existing business
  
• be established, located and operated solely within Australia
  

To discuss if your business idea is eligible, please contact New Hunter Business.

How Do I Apply?

Contact New Hunter Business (NHB) to obtain an application form or go to the Apply for NEIS page on this website.