The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is an initiative of the Australian Government which helps eligible young people to start and run their new small business. In the first year of the business starting, NEIS helps to train, support and help the participant to become self-supporting and independent. NEIS participants also undertake an accredited 3 month small business management course. It is the hope of NEIS that with business advice and mentor support in the first year of starting the business, it will become successful.

Private, community and government organisations are a few of the agencies in the network that provide support for NEIS participants. These organisations are known as NEIS Providers. The NEIS Providers in Townsville and Thuringowa are Success Employment & Training Co-op and TP Human Capital.

Who Can Participate in NEIS?

If you are unemployed and receiving a qualifying income support payment or a Department of Veterans' Affairs Widow/er or Partner Service pension you may be eligible to participate in NEIS.

As NEIS places are competitive, you are not immediately guaranteed acceptance into the program if you are receiving the above payments. Personal and business eligibility criteria apply for acceptance and applicants are evaluated through these.

NEIS Assistance includes:

• Accredited training for 3 months in small business management including business skills and development of a business plan
• NEIS allowance for up to 52 weeks
• Business advice and mentor support during the first year of business operation

How to Apply

You can obtain an application form from a NEIS provider, Job Network Member or Centrelink, or call the Employment Services Information Line on 13 6268 or visit www.jobsearch.gov.au

Information on NEIS was gathered from www.jobsearch.gov.au and is to be used as a guide only.