There are different laws and obligations depending on where you are in Australia and what the work arrangements are, and there is a lot of information on this website. This page will help you work out which laws apply to you — so you can skip over the information you don’t need and get straight to what matters. 

An independent contractor is someone who works for themselves. They are also sometimes called freelancers, self-managed artists, independent artists, sole traders or contractors.

Being an employee is different from being an independent contractor, a volunteer or an unpaid intern. It is important to know the difference - and to understand the minimum legal standards for an employment contract.  

Intellectual property (IP) are creations of the mind. There are rights that protect the value of these creations and help monetise them.

Superannuation (or super) is a type of long-term investment for retirement. Businesses and organisations must pay super to their employees – and to some independent contractors, entertainers and performers.

Unpaid work arrangements are common in creative industries. Some are lawful and some are not. Getting it right is important.

Pursuing a hobby is different from running a business or having a job. Only a genuine hobbyist can use a Statement by a Supplier form.

There is plenty to consider when starting and running a creative business, from deciding what business structure is right for you and registering your business, to understanding tax, super and insurance, and knowing what records you need to keep.