At first glance, navigating your way through government processes and regulations can seem like a complex maze. The Small Business Development Corporation's (SBDC) has put together the following tips to help you find the shortest path.

Finding your way to the right information

• www.dlg.wa.gov.au – This website features a list of local government contacts in Western Australia.
• www.wa.gov.au – This website features an easy to follow A - Z list of services and a list of Western Australian State Government agencies
• www.australia.gov.au – This website features a list of Australian Government websites and departments.
• Our Small Business Development Corporation - information centre can help you identify which licences apply to you and the relevant contacts.
• If you belong to an industry association, they may be able to provide some specific support and advice relevant to businesses in your industry.

Steering your way through a dispute

• Before contacting a government agency to discuss a specific issue, make sure you have all the relevant documentation at hand.
• Ask for a step by step list of the process you need to follow and keep to this list as best you can.
• Ask for time frames to better gauge when you can expect to receive a reply.
• To help you keep track of the progress of your issue and the people you have dealt with, keep a written record of your conversations, including the date, a summary of what was discussed and contact details.
• Ask to speak to the same person each time you contact the agency.
• Don't be hesitant in asking for further information. For example, if you are experiencing delays, ask why.
• Follow up regularly with the agency and find out how your query is being processed.
• If you reach an agreement verbally, ask for confirmation in writing, by email or letter. If this is not possible, send an email or letter to confirm the agreement in writing and request an acknowledgement of receipt.

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Need more help?

• Email or call 131 249.
• Lodge a complaint with the government agency. Most government agencies have a system in place to manage and respond to complaints.
• Seek guidance from a government review agency, such as the Ombudsman Western Australia (telephone 1800 117 000), or State Administrative Tribunal (telephone 9222 9872).

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Web gateways to federal, state and local government

• The Australian Government Portal gives you easy access to Australian Federal Government services and information.
• The West Australian Government Portal gives you easy access to WA State Government services and information.
• The Department of Local Government website lists all local government contacts in Western Australia.

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