Start a business or grow your existing business with the Self-Employment Assistance Program

Pumicestone Chamber of Commerce is proud to share this incredible opportunity from The Australian School of Employment: The Self-Employment Assistance Program helps people start, develop and grow a small or micro-business through 12 months of free mentoring, workshops, accredited training and financial support.
It’s a free Australian Government initiative funded by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
The Australian School of Employment is now accepting final applications for the financial year, with the final intake fortnight commencing before EOFY.
The Self-Employment Assistance Program helps eligible participants start, develop or grow a small or micro-business.
Participants can work on a business plan, receive guidance from experienced business coaches and access up to 12 months of small business coaching.
Self-Employment Assistance is a free Australian Government initiative funded by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
Here's what you get:
Free mentoring
Workshops
Accredited training
Business support
Custom business plans
12 Months Business Coaching
Apply now for Self-Employment Assistance
Got a business idea or side hustle you're ready to grow?
You don't have to go it alone — and you shouldn't.

Pumicestone Chamber of Commerce is proud to share this incredible opportunity from The Australian School of Employment: the Self-Employment Assistance Program — a fully funded initiative by Workforce Australia and the Department of Employment & Workplace Relations.
This free program is designed to help you start, develop or grow a small or micro-business
FREE Program from Australian School of Business
Here's what you get:
12 months of one-on-one business coaching
Custom business plans
Financial and income support
Accredited training & workshops
Business health checks
Community events & mentoring from real entrepreneurs (like Shark Tank's Steve Baxter!)
Limited places available
Whether you're just dreaming, just starting, or already selling — this program gives you the tools and guidance to take your business to the next level.
KEEPING CHECKING BACK FOR MORE INFO
Check out our upcoming events

Join us for a relaxed private dining experience with other local business owners you want to meet and do business with - MEAL INCLUDED 💙
📅 Pick your date
⏰ 6:30pm
📍Bribie Island RSL, 99 Toorbul Street
Bongaree, QLD 4507
What You’ll Get
Private Dining Experience
Enjoy a hosted meal in an intimate, small-group setting.
Facilitated Conversations
Structured introductions and guided discussion to keep conversations focused and valuable.
Time to Build Real Relationships
Enough space to move beyond introductions and into meaningful dialogue.
Collaboration-Focused Environment
Designed to spark referrals, partnerships, and long-term connections.
👉 Book now and be part of a curated networking experience designed for connection, collaboration, and outcomes.
Places are limited to protect the quality of the experience
59 + booking fee - Meal Included


🌅 Sunset Networking Drinks – WE ARE BACK TO FRIDAYS🌅
Due to the incredible number of our amazing members who are finalists in the Pumicestone Business Excellence Awards on Friday 29th May, we didn’t want anyone to miss out on either event.
📅 Friday 26h June
⏰ From 4:30 PM
📍 Oyster Shed Beach Club
Located at Sandstone Point Hotel
1800 Bribie Island Rd, Sandstone Point
Same great location. Same relaxed atmosphere. Same genuine connections as the sun goes down.
Get yourself there, find the Pumicestone Chamber of Commerce crew, grab a drink or bite to eat, and ease into the evening with great people and even better conversations.
Bring a friend, bring a colleague - and don’t miss this one.
FREE event – registration required.
FREE

Check out other local business events and programs assisting business growth in the Pumicestone area.
FAQs
Find answers to common questions. Don't see yours? Contact us!
What is the Pumicestone Chamber of Commerce?
The Pumicestone Chamber of Commerce is a local business collective supporting Bribie Island, Sandstone Point, Ningi, and surrounding areas. We help local businesses grow through networking, education, advocacy, and community collaboration.
How much does it cost?
Membership is currently FREE! We're committed to helping local businesses connect and thrive, so now is the perfect time to join and take advantage of exclusive events, resources, and a growing network of like-minded professionals.
Who can become a member?
Any business, professional, or entrepreneur operating in or around the Pumicestone region is welcome to join — from sole traders and startups to established companies across all industries.
What are the advantages of joining?
Members gain access to:
✅ Networking events and workshops
✅ Guest speakers and educational sessions
✅ Business referrals and local collaborations
✅ Exposure through Chamber promotions
✅ A strong, supportive business community
What kind of events do you run?
We host a variety of events including:
Business networking nights
Educational workshops
Speaker panels and Q&As
Collaborative community projects
Special interest meetups for specific industries or topics
How do I get involved or stay updated?
Simply register as a member to receive email updates and event invites. You can also follow us on social media and check our website regularly for the latest news, event announcements, and local business spotlights.