Questions we are frequently asked about NEIS
About the NEIS Program
Does it Cover Capital Set Up Costs ?
NEIS does not provide you with any capital funds.
The only money provided is the NEIS allowance
Who is Eligible for NEIS ?
You must be registered with Centrelink, over 18 years and receiving a pension benefit.
Most people enter from Newstart Allowance (NSA), but other pension types are also eligible.
You must be receiving a NSA, NMA, MMA, PPS, PTA, DSP, WDA, YAL or CAR pension (some extra conditions apply for those on a disability or restricted work capacity).
You must be eligible to participate in PPP NEIS business management studies.
You must be registered with a Job Services Australia Provider.
You must be referred to a NEIS Panel Member by your JSA Provider
You must have entered into an Employment Pathway Plan (EPP) with your JSA Provider.
If you are un-discharged from bankruptcy, you are not eligible.
What sort of Businesses are Eligible?
If you are in Stream 1 or Stream 2, your business must be in an area of Skills Shortages.
It must be NEW – it must not have traded and it cannot be a takeover.
It must be YOURS – but you can have other partners.
It must be LEGAL – and be within local Council regulations.
It must be FAIR – and not disadvantage an existing competitor.
It must be VIABLE – to be able to support you and your family.
It must be INSURED – Public Liability is an essential.
How do you get Referred into NEIS?
Your first step may be to discuss self-employment as a career option with your Job Services Australia Provider. They will then refer you to your NEIS Panel Member for an initial assessment of your Business Idea.
How do you get Assessed for NEIS?
You may have heard of NEIS from a friend or a NEIS brochure and you may inquire with a NEIS Panel Member direct. They will give you the full information on NEIS, advise you of the assessment process and give you an initial business outline form to take home to complete. They will also ask you to obtain a NEIS referral from your JSA Provider.
After you have your referral, your NEIS Panel Member will then re-check your eligibility and assess your idea and arrange to enroll you in your NEIS business management studies.
NEIS places are competitive and eligibility alone does not guarantee acceptance into the programme. Please ask your Job Services Australia Provider for a referral to NEIS, so you can find out if you meet the personal eligibility criteria and if your business idea is suitable.
Thank you again for your visit, we wish you all the best for your NEIS application.
To find your local NEIS Panel Member, please contact your local Centrelink or JSA Provider.
If you are not eligible for NEIS, Business Enterprise Centres Australia may be able to assist with business start-up advice and business planning. For further information go to www.becaustralia.org.au