Originally published in The Daily Telegraph
By Bruce Billson
This sector makes up 98 per cent of Australian businesses, so why is it under-represented at the upcoming economic roundtable? It cannot merely be an afterthought, writes Bruce Billson.
Originally published in The Canberra Times.
The Treasurer has released the agenda for the much-vaunted three-day Economic Reform Roundtable he is hosting in just a few short days (August 19 to 21), and there is feverish activity on many fronts in the lead-up.
Submissions aplenty and roundtables hosted by Ministers to capture input from those not in the impressive core group of 23 attendees that will participate in all sessions over the three days.
Originally published in The Canberra Times
By Bruce Billson
Competition laws will work better for small businesses with a dedicated court list.
For small businesses, effective competition is vital. Knowing they can compete on a level playing field, a small business can confidently start an enterprise, invest, take risks and accept the responsibilities of business ownership.
Originally published in The Canberra Times
By Bruce Billson
The first half of this year has been characterised as a test of endurance for many small businesses, but I'm encouraged by the enduring optimism and the promise of improvement.
A greater focus on the exceptional grit of small businesses that are our economic foundation is essential.
Courageous and committed small business owners have been contending with a prolonged challenging operating environment. It is essential we recover lost ground.
Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson interview with Nick Rheinberger.
ABC Radio Illawarra
Subject: Insolvency figures, small business pulse, ASBFEO assistance
Nick Rheinberger
The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, urges all Australians to recognise the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit of the people driving our 2.5 million small businesses on World Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day.
Originally published in The Canberra Times
By Bruce Billson
What's going on for small business right now? We have seen the first quarterly improvement since August 2022, suggesting that conditions might be stabilising and the most difficult days are possibly behind us.
But we need to do more to make sure we get the best out of the small business economy for both our national wellbeing and community benefit.
Originally published in The Canberra Times
By Bruce Billson
ASBFEO recently released our fourth Small Business Pulse - a health-check on the small business operating environment.
It recorded a microscopic improvement of 0.1 per cent this quarter. This is the first quarterly increase since August 2022 after a significant deterioration that occurred in the post-COVID period.
Originally posted in the Canberra Times
It is pleasing to see so much recent attention on what is needed to bolster our economic resilience and to restore living standards at a time of uncertainty and disruption. International economic uncertainty is exacerbating existing and persistently strong pressures on many small and family businesses.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the returning Government’s new Ministry with the Hon Dr Anne Aly appointed to Cabinet as the Minister for Small Business.
The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman has welcomed Dr Anne Aly to the small business portfolio and the important retention of the Minister for Small Business as a Cabinet-level appointment.