The best and worst states and territories to try and run a business in
When it comes to running or starting a business in Australia, not all states and territories were created equal.
According to the Business Council of Australia, some states are doing better than others when it comes to red tape, taxes and regulations.
Here's how every state and territory stacked up.
8 - Victoria
In last place, the Business council of Australia said Victoria had the most work to do in improving its business fundamentals.
"Victoria has some of the least competitive property tax settings, payroll taxes and business licensing requirements in the country — it fundamentally needs to look at how these are holding back its economy," Business Council Chief Executive Bran Black said.
7 - Western Australia
Western Australia had the 7th worst business environment, according to the report.
WA was particularly targeted for having the worst retail trading hours in the country.
WA has the fewest trading hour exemptions, and the shortest trading hours.
6 - Queensland
The next best state was Queensland.
The Business Council said Queensland had a standardized rate on premiums for workers compensation schemes - arguably making it easier for businesses to navigate.
5 - NSW
NSW was said to be the fifth best state to try and run a business in.
4 - Northern Territory
The Northern Territory has no legislated trading hour restrictions - making it easier for shops to stay open.
The Territory also reqres fewer business licenses which helps owners to get started with less paperwork.
3 - Australian Capital Territory
The ACT was the third best state for businesses.
The ACT does not charge land tax on commercial property. It also has relatively low stamp-duty charges.
2 - Tasmania
Tasmania was not ranked first in any of the categories in the Business Council's report - it was instead a well-performing all rounder.
1 - South Australia
South Australia topped the rankings for the best state to run a business in.
The report found this was driven by it having lower payroll taxes, lower property charges and fewer mandatory business licenses.
"South Australians have made it clear that they want their state to be destination number one for business, and other jurisdictions need to take note if they want to remain competitive in attracting business investment," Black said.
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