In Australia, the ideal business plan length strikes the right balance between detail and readability. These five free Australian business plan templates below adhere to ideal length guidelines.
5 Free Business Plan Templates
Note, while these business plan templates can provide a basic framework, if you require professional content and design and a business plan that truly stands out, our business plan writers can assist – contact us for a quote.
Australian Government Free Business Plan Template (business.gov.au)
- Length: 19 pages
- Overview: This business plan template is concise yet comprehensive, designed to cover all key aspects such as business goals, marketing strategies, operational plans, and financial forecasts. Its moderate length makes it ideal for most small businesses.
Queensland Government Free Business Plan Template
- Length: 29 pages
- Overview: The Queensland Government’s business plan template is detailed and includes sections on SWOT analysis, competitor research, and action plans. This option is perfect for businesses requiring a deep dive into their strategic planning.
Small Business Development Corporation (WA) Free Business Plan Template
- Length: 29 pages
- Overview: Similar to the Queensland template, this 29-page document from WA focuses on a thorough analysis of your business. It’s especially suited for entrepreneurs looking for a more comprehensive plan to present to investors or financial institutions.
NAB (National Australia Bank) Free Business Plan Template
- Length: 29 pages
- Overview: NAB’s template is tailored to small businesses seeking funding or loans. It includes detailed financial planning tools and is well-structured for presenting to banks.
ANZ Free Business Plan Template
- Length: 17 pages
- Overview: ANZ offers a slightly shorter template while still covering essential areas like company overview, products/services, and financial projections. Its streamlined approach is great for business owners looking for simplicity without sacrificing detail.
Vic Government’s 1-Page Business Plan
For small business owners who feel overwhelmed by the idea of creating a lengthy document, the Victorian Government’s 1-Page Business Plan is a game changer. This template focuses on brevity and simplicity, summarising key information such as:
- Business goals
- Target market
- Value proposition
- Revenue streams
This one-page approach is perfect for startups, micro-businesses, or entrepreneurs who need a quick and easy way to organise their ideas. While it may not be sufficient for securing a bank loan or attracting investors, it’s an excellent tool for personal planning and getting started.
What to Consider When Deciding on Your Business Plan Length
Purpose:
- If the plan is for internal use, a shorter, more focused document may suffice.
- For external purposes, such as securing funding, a detailed plan of 20-30 pages is often necessary.
Complexity of Your Business:
- Simple businesses (e.g., sole traders) may not require extensive documentation.
- Complex businesses (e.g., those with multiple products or locations) benefit from more detailed plans.
Audience:
- Banks and investors typically prefer detailed plans.
- Partners or employees may appreciate a summary or one-page version.
Industry Standards:
- Consider industry-specific requirements, as some sectors may expect a more thorough analysis.
For most small businesses in Australia, a business plan length of 15-30 pages is ideal. This length ensures you cover all critical areas while keeping the document manageable and reader-friendly. The quality of your business plan matters more than its length. Focus on delivering clear, concise, and actionable insights that align with your goals and meet the expectations of your intended audience.
Remember, we are on hand to assist. Contact us!