There are a number of legal and regulatory requirements which affect all businesses. Many serious issues can be avoided by getting good legal advice. Ask for recommendations from your regional tourism organisation or other people in the tourism industry. Australian Law Online provides access to law and justice related information and services, and provides links to relevant agencies under a range of topics (including a business topic).

The Department of Tourism Industry and Resources publishes a Legal Issues Guide for Small Business which provides an overview of legal issues and links to other organisations for more information and legal assistance.

You may find it beneficial to get legal advice with regards to:

• Choosing an appropriate business structure and tax minimisation strategies.
• Protecting intellectual property and copyright of stories and images.
• Insurance requirements.
• Licences, permits and regulations.
• Raising finance.
• Writing hire agreements for any equipment you hire out.
• Risk management, public liability and disclaimers.
• Setting up a cancellation and refunds policy.
• Dealing with government departments and agencies.

You have to make sure you are aware of all the relevant regulatory requirements that apply to your business, failure to comply can result in hefty fines or prosecution. You can loose your operating licence or your insurance may not cover you, if you have an accident or claim against you.

Always contact your local council before you start your business to find out about food health and safety requirements, local by-laws such as parking, signage and outdoor dining, and any other requirements or regulations involved with running a tourism business in your area.

If you have a query about how tax affects your business, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) provides a business information enquiry line or, alternatively, you can book an appointment and have a trained field officer visit to explain your taxation obligations in person. For further information contact the ATO on 13 24 78. The ATO also has a special Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Resource Centre to provide advice on a range of tax matters for individuals & communities. Call them on 13 10 30.

Businesses that employ people have a range of obligations including Workplace Health and Safety, Award Wages, Superannuation, Workers' Compensation insurance, and more. You will need to consider federal, state/ territory and local requirements and regulations. Call or check out the website for the Business Licence Information Service for your state or territory.