The Remote Business Setup Checklist

Everything you need to get your remote business running properly from Day 1.

Getting Legal

  • Register your business name with ASIC

  • Confirm your ABN is active and correct

  • Choose a business structure that fits how you work

  • Set up a separate business bank account

  • Register for GST if turnover exceeds $75,000

  • Check if your industry needs a licence or insurance

  • Get basic contract templates ready for clients

Getting Paid

  • Set up Stripe for online payments

  • Create invoice templates in Xero with your ABN

  • Decide on payment terms. 7 days is standard

  • Set a late payment policy and put it in writing

  • Track expenses from Day 1 in Xero or a spreadsheet

  • Set aside a percentage of every payment for tax

Getting Organised

  • Choose a project management tool, Notion or Asana

  • Set up Clockify or similar for time tracking

  • Set up a Google Drive folder structure for clients and finances

  • Set up a professional email on your own domain

  • Build a simple onboarding doc for new clients

  • Back up your work automatically, not just on your laptop

Getting Visible

  • Create a simple one page website or Beehiiv landing page

  • Set up a LinkedIn profile for your business

  • Create a Facebook business page

  • Add your business to Google Business Profile so locals can find you

  • Write a one line description of what you do and who it is for

  • Ask your first three clients for a testimonial

Getting Protected

  • Look into professional indemnity and public liability insurance

  • Use a password manager for all your business logins

  • Turn on two factor authentication everywhere it counts

  • Know your data obligations if you handle client information

Getting Support

  • Join a community of other remote business owners

  • Find one person to check in with regularly

  • Book time in your calendar for admin, not just client work