Victoria is home to more than 680,000 actively trading businesses, accounting for nearly one quarter of Australia's total economic output. Melbourne, as the state capital and the country's most active business sales market, is the engine of VIC's business economy — but the regional markets of Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga and the Mornington Peninsula also offer strong opportunities for business sellers.

The Victorian Business Market

Victoria's economy has rebounded strongly from the pandemic period and is now operating with genuine momentum. Consumer spending is recovering, the construction and infrastructure pipeline is full, and the state government's investment in healthcare, education and transport infrastructure is creating downstream demand for supporting businesses.

Top Industries Selling in Victoria

  • Hospitality — cafes, restaurants, bars and takeaways are the highest-volume category statewide
  • Health and beauty — hair salons, beauty clinics, allied health and medical practices
  • Childcare and education — driven by government funding and demographic demand
  • Trade and construction — particularly in growth corridors from Werribee to Pakenham
  • Professional services — accounting, marketing, IT and consulting
  • Tourism and accommodation — in the Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley and regional Victoria

Section 52 — Victoria's Mandatory Disclosure Obligation

This is the most important VIC-specific legal requirement for business sellers. Section 52 of the Sale of Land Act 1962 (as applied to business sales) requires sellers to provide a prescribed disclosure statement to buyers before exchange of contracts. This document covers key financial information, lease details, employee entitlements, outstanding liabilities and any encumbrances on the business.

Failure to provide the Section 52 statement gives the buyer the right to rescind the contract within certain time periods. Your commercial solicitor must prepare this document accurately — errors or omissions can void the sale and expose you to legal liability.

Business Valuation in Victoria

Victorian businesses are valued using the SDE or EBITDA multiple method, with multiples typically ranging from 1.5x to 4x depending on category, location, lease quality and transferability. Browse businesses for sale in Victoria to benchmark your business against current comparable listings across the state.

GST and Going Concern

Many Victorian business sales qualify for the going concern GST exemption, which means no GST is payable on the sale price if both parties agree in writing that the supply is a going concern and all elements necessary to continue operating the business are included in the sale. Consult your accountant early.

Finding a Business Broker in Victoria

Victoria has the largest community of licensed business brokers in Australia. Look for AIBB membership, demonstrated experience in your specific industry, and access to current comparable sales data. Connect with experienced Victorian brokers through AllBusiness.com.au — free service, no obligation.

Ready to Sell in Victoria?

AllBusiness.com.au connects Victorian business owners with experienced, AIBB-affiliated brokers who specialise in your industry and location.