Setting up a Design Practice Practice Notes

This Practice Note outlines the basics of establishing a new design business, from choosing the right legal structure to meeting your tax and workplace safety responsibilities.

Setting up a new business can be an intimidating process, but there is plenty of free help available to guide you along the way. 

About the DIA's Practice Notes

The DIA Practice Notes give designers the fundamentals to take control of their careers and flourish at work. As part of the major refresh of all DIA resources, the refreshed notes provide more relevant guidance for contemporary workplaces. They are available free for all designers who are members of the DIA.

The Practice Notes cover topics such as conditions of engagement, confidentiality agreements, preparing for staff reviews, understanding intellectual property and how to set fees for design services.

This Practice Note is part of the Running an Office series. The full series is soon to be released:

• Designers in Australia

• Working as a Designer

• Working with Clients

• Running an Office

• Buying Design Services