This study identifies the key factors that enable Chinese entrepreneurs to set up and operate their business ventures in Australia. Data was collected from 200 Chinese entrepreneurs through a survey questionnaire and was analysed using factor analysis and regression analysis. The findings show that key factors, such as background of entrepreneurs, entrepreneurial motivations, traditional Confucian values, difficulties and hurdles faced, and the vision of expanding overseas contributed to the success of the businesses. This research may be of interest to policy makers, small business consultants and academics because it highlights key success factors relevant to small ethnic Chinese based businesses and the challenges they face.