About NEIS
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is a self-employment program funded by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR). NEIS helps eligible unemployed people become self supporting and independent of Centrelink by establishing and running their own business.
The NEIS programme started in 1985, and is Australia’s longest running and most successful employment programme. Over 80% of participants indicate that 15 months after starting their business, they are either still operating a business, employed and/or in some form of education or training.
To ensure the success of the programme, NEIS providers carefully select people with viable business ideas.
The goal of NEIS is to help you set up a sustainable business. Mission Australia provides support to you past your first year of operation. Having a professional mentor to guide, counsel, talk through concerns, ideas and plans during the first 15 months of the life of your new business is invaluable to its long-term growth and success - and your peace of mind!
NEIS Assistance Includes:
NEIS Training
Before commencement of your business, you will need to complete a training programme, Certificate IV in Business (Small Business Management). Should you be in receipt of income support, this is an approved activity with Centrelink and will exempt you from looking for work.
You will receive help to develop a business plan as part of your training. Before you can commence your business with NEIS assistance your Business Plan will need to be approved by a panel of local industry experts.
The Training course covers:
- Research of business opportunities
- Establishing business and legal requirements
- Undertaking financial planning
- Promoting the business in your chosen market
- Undertaking business planning - you will write your personalised plan for your business
- Analysing/presenting research information for your business
- Coordinating business resources
- Reporting on financial activity
- Profiling your business's market
- Analysing consumer behaviour for specific markets
NEIS Allowance
Participants who are receiving income support from Centrelink and who complete the course and commence their business will receive income support in fortnightly instalments for 12 months (equivalent to Newstart Allowance).
>Please note that NEIS does not provide financing or grants for the "set-up" or the operation of your new business.
Mentor Support
Mentor support is an essential component of NEIS. Mentors are people with proven business acumen and proven experience in marketing, finance, accounting or other relevant business skills.
As a NEIS participant you will receive assistance and business advice from mentors during the first 15 months of your business operation. Your NEIS mentor will meet with you and visit you in your business a number of times during this period.
Contact
Your NEIS provider will maintain regular contact with you throughout the first 15 months of trading to see if you are experiencing any business problems.
Remember, the goal of NEIS is to help you set up a sustainable business.
