Like most businesses, success is measured by local foot traffic and community engagement. But in today’s globalised digital economy, limiting your reach to just the local market means missing out on a whole ocean of opportunity. The internet has levelled the playing field, so even the smallest WA business can compete on a global stage. With the right strategies, your Perth-based boutique, Fremantle art gallery or Margaret River winery can move from serving local customers to building an international brand, expanding your customer base and revenue streams.

Moving from local foot traffic to global reach isn’t without its challenges but the rewards are big. Expanding your online presence globally gives you the chance to diversify your income, reduce reliance on local conditions and establish powerful brand recognition across borders. This article outlines the steps and considerations for WA businesses looking to go international e-commerce and unlock their global potential.

The World is Your Marketplace

For Western Australian businesses, the digital era has broken down barriers, presenting an unprecedented opportunity to go beyond local customers. While local foot traffic is comfortable, the potential for growth through international SEO and online expansion is massive. A 2023 report by Austrade found that Australian businesses that export grow 3.5 times faster than those that only focus on domestic sales (UniWebAu). Going global requires planning, a solid digital presence and understanding of international e-commerce.

Why Go Global? The Benefits for WA Businesses

• Diversified Revenue Streams: Reduce reliance on a single market by tapping into demand in multiple regions.
• Expanded Customer Base: Australia is only 0.33% of the world’s population. By going global, you open to 99.67% of potential customers (UniWebAu).
• Enhanced Brand Recognition: Global presence builds credibility and prestige.
• 24/7 Operations: With global time zones, your e-commerce website can make sales while you sleep.
• Economies of Scale: Higher sales volumes improve profitability.

Key Steps for Global Online Expansion

1. Market Research & Strategic Planning

• Target Markets: Use Google Analytics to see international traffic and research demand.
• SWOT Analysis: Analyse strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.
• Localisation Needs: Adapt content, currency, and messaging to each region.

2. Website Internationalisation & E-commerce Platform

• Scalable E-commerce Platform: Use Shopify, BigCommerce or WooCommerce for global scalability.
• International SEO (iSEO): Optimise content for global search engines (SEO services).
• Domain Structure: Choose ccTLDs, subdomains or subfolders wisely (UniWebAu).
• Hreflang Tags: Use to show correct language/region pages (Search Engine Land).
• Mobile-First Design: Ensure responsive website design.
• Transparent Pricing: Show local currencies, taxes and shipping costs.

3. Digital Marketing for a Global Audience

• International SEO & Paid Search: Run campaigns tailored to each market.
• Social Media: Identify local platforms and tailor content (digital marketing strategy).
• Content: Create content addressing international audience needs.
• Local Partners: Work with influencers and distributors (Choosi).

4. Payment & Finance

• Local Payment Methods: Accept wallets like Alipay, Apple Pay, etc. (Shopware).
• Cross-Border Payments: Use Stripe, Airwallex or Eway.
• Tax & Compliance: Learn VAT, GST and customs laws.

5. Logistics & Fulfilment

• International Shipping: Work with DHL, Australia Post, etc.
• Customs & Duties: Communicate fees upfront to reduce cart abandonment.
• Returns Policy: Provide a clear global returns process.
• Local Fulfilment: Consider 3PL providers for high-volume regions.

6. Legal & Regulatory Compliance

• Data Privacy: Comply with GDPR, APPs and international standards.
• Consumer Protection: Follow local consumer law and warranties.
• Product Standards: Ensure certification for international entry.

Government Support for Australian Businesses

• Austrade: Provides info and connections (Austrade).
• Export Market Development Grants (EMDG): Funding for marketing (Business.gov.au).
• TradeStart Program: Local support and global network (Small Business Development Corporation WA).

Go Global

For WA businesses, moving from local foot traffic to global online is a big challenge but highly rewarding. By investing in international SEO, optimising e-commerce, and leveraging government support, your WA business can scale globally. Contact us today to explore your global expansion journey.