Media Centre

��Ҵ�ý marks 10 years of assistance and advocacy for Australia’s small and family businesses as Bruce Billson bids farewell

Emily Carter — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 23:14:41 +0000

��Ҵ�ý marks 10 years of assistance and advocacy for Australia’s small and family businesses as Bruce Billson bids farewell Emily Carter Tue, 03/10/2026 - 10:14

10 March 2026

On 11 March, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (��Ҵ�ý) is marking 10 years of advocating for small and family businesses, reflecting a decade of practical support, dispute resolution and advocating for fairer rules that allow small and family businesses to start, grow and succeed.

Established under the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Act 2015, ��Ҵ�ý was created to do something simple but vital: level the playing field.

The Ombudsman said ��Ҵ�ý has matured and is a respected organisation, widely recognised by the small and family business community, industry bodies, regulators, major corporates, Parliamentary committees and government.

“It has been 10 years since Australia made a deliberate choice – to give small and family businesses a strong, independent voice, and practical support when the odds are stacked against them.

“Most importantly, it is known by small and family business owners as a place that listens, understands their reality, and takes action.

“Since commencing operations in 2016, ��Ҵ�ý has become a trusted point of support for small businesses navigating disputes, late payments, regulatory pressures and economic shocks, while also providing government and Parliament with evidence grounded in real lived experiences not theory,” Mr Billson said.

The Ombudsman was instrumental in creating ��Ҵ�ý when he served as Minister for Small Business between 2013-15.

“I saw first-hand the power imbalance faced by small and family businesses when dealing with larger businesses and corporations, banks and creditors and even government agencies. These enterprising women and men are resilient and hardworking, but they’re too often dealing with frameworks that don’t reflect real world business operations.

“��Ҵ�ý was established to change that – to be an advocate and ally, and a practical problem solver.

“Over the past decade, ��Ҵ�ý has responded to over 60,000 requests for help, supporting small businesses through some of the most challenging periods in recent history such as the pandemic,” said Mr Billson.

��Ҵ�ý’s assistance function provides direct assistance with payment, contract, franchise, digital platform and other commercial disputes, and has expanded over the years, also offering low-cost legal support through the Small Business Tax Concierge and subsidised legal advice for unrepresented small businesses.

The Ombudsman said ��Ҵ�ý assistance has made a real difference in the lives of real people.

“In one instance, a small business that had defaulted on a loan with an organisation that was not a member of the Australian Financial Complaints Authority was under immense distress when they were charged exorbitant late penalty fees and their family home was on the line. Following our correspondence, the lender removed the penalty fees.

“That outcome mattered – and there are thousands more like it. These cases are a reminder just how easily small business can be disproportionately burdened and come under harm. The reality is, small business owners are not well resourced, often time-poor and wear multiple hats just to keep the business viable,” said Mr Billson.

Beyond individual cases, ��Ҵ�ý has been persistent in its advocacy for reform, calling for regulation that is proportionate, risk based and workable in the real world.

“Too often, small businesses are not in the room when policy decisions are made – yet they are the first to feel the impact when those decisions land. Rules are written by people who don’t run payroll on a Friday night, who don’t carry personal guarantees, and who don’t absorb the risk when cash flow dries up.

“At the same time, small businesses are not a single, uniform group. They are incredibly diverse – spanning industries, regions, business models and life stages – with different views, priorities and pressures. That diversity is a strength, but it also makes insights harder to harness through traditional policy processes.

“That is why ��Ҵ�ý matters. We exist to bring those diverse, lived experiences into the room – to distil them, amplify them, and ensure policy decisions reflect how businesses actually operate, not how we assume they do,” said Mr Billson.

��Ҵ�ý’s policy and advocacy work has centred on regulatory reform, tax and investment settings, workforce access and simpler, faster and lower cost access to justice. More recently, ��Ҵ�ý has turned its attention to the growing burden of ‘white tape’ – the administrative and compliance costs quietly accumulating in business-to-business relationships.

“A 'small business first' mindset to facilitate right-sized regulation for every new policy proposal is one way to ensure small businesses aren’t forgotten,” said Mr Billson.

Over the past 10 years, ��Ҵ�ý has delivered measurable, practical outcomes for small and family businesses.

“Our direct assistance to small and family businesses has helped hundreds of businesses each year recover cash flow without costly legal action.

“Our advocacy has urged practical support and meaningful incentives to support small businesses deepening their digital engagement and benefit from new technologies, including AI.

“We’ve strengthened the evidence base and visibility of small business conditions with the ��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse – providing timely, credible insight into trading conditions, digital and AI adoption, workforce challenges and emerging opportunities and pressures,” said Mr Billson.

As Mr Billson concludes his tenure as Ombudsman, he said the mission remains unfinished.

“Small and family businesses are resilient, innovative and essential to Australia’s economy – but they should not have to succeed despite the system. They should be able to operate in a small business ecosystem that enables their success.

“As ��Ҵ�ý enters its next decade, the mission is clear. Keep backing small and family business, keep pushing for fairness, and keep making sure enterprising women and men’s voices – in all their diversity – are heard in the rooms where decisions are made, and reflected in the outcomes that follow.” concluded Mr Billson.

MEDIA CONTACT: 0448 467 178 | media@asbfeo.gov.au

Recognise enterprising women in small and family business by removing bias and barriers

Emily Carter — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 22:32:51 +0000

Recognise enterprising women in small and family business by removing bias and barriers Emily Carter Thu, 03/05/2026 - 09:32

05 March 2026

Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, gives recognition and applauds women in small and family business ahead of International Women’s Day.

“More than half a million Australian women say their main job is running a small business, representing 35 per cent of small business owners – the same share as across all business owners nationally, according to the ABS Census.

“This represents a profound shift. In 1966, women accounted for just 19 per cent of business owners. Today, women are starting, leading and sustaining businesses across every sector and every region of the country. This progress deserves recognition, and it also demands action,” said Mr Billson.

The Ombudsman said women are building businesses across Australia however, the systems around them have not kept pace with their lived experience.

“When we asked women owned and led businesses about their prospects, just over half reported strong opportunities for growth. At the same time, only five per cent said they faced no barriers to growing their business,” said Mr Billson.

Access to finance can be a challenge for many small business owners, but women continue to encounter structural obstacles.

“Access to capital remains the most commonly reported barrier. Some reported being advised to add a male to their loan application in order for business finance to be approved, and this is a clear signal that bias persists in parts of the system.

“Women also highlighted the dual responsibility of running a business while caring for others as a significant and often invisible constraint. These pressures are particularly pronounced in regional Australia, where access to services and support can be limited,” said Mr Billson.

Unconscious bias was repeatedly identified as a barrier to growth.

“Many women reported being judged against a narrow and outdated view of what a ‘typical’ business owner looks like, with assumptions that they are distracted by responsibilities and priorities outside their business. These assumptions can limit access to finance, government procurement and other opportunities critical to business growth,” said Mr Billson.

The Ombudsman said across these experiences, one consistent finding emerged – women value mentors, advisers and systems that recognise the diversity of their business journeys.

“Rather than outdated assumptions about who a business owner should be, or one size fits all models that assume a single pathway to success, policy, finance and support systems need to adapt to how women actually do business,” said Mr Billson.

Despite the barriers, women business owners remain optimistic. The recent Australian Social Attitudes Survey found that seventy per cent of female business owners say Australia is a good place to start a business.

“International Women’s Day is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the vital contribution women make to Australia’s small business economy.

“This year’s ‘Balance the scales’ theme reinforces a simple expectation that women should be safe, heard, and free to shape their own lives. In this context, to ensure women in small and family business are heard, policy settings should reflect the realities of the women in small and family business. That means fair access to capital, removing structural barriers and outdated assumptions, designing policy and finance systems to how women do business.” Mr Billson added.

MEDIA CONTACT: 0448 467 178 / www.asbfeo.gov.au

��Ҵ�ý calls for improvements to enterprise environment to enable small business success

Stef Cox — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 23:46:22 +0000

��Ҵ�ý calls for improvements to enterprise environment to enable small business success Stef Cox Mon, 03/02/2026 - 10:46

02 March 2026

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson is urging the Federal Government to deliver practical, targeted measures in the 2026–27 Budget to reduce costs, restore confidence and remove barriers that are holding back Australia’s small and family businesses.

��Ҵ�ý’s 2026–27 Pre-Budget Submission highlights focus areas to improve Australia’s tax and regulatory settings, and the broader enterprise environment, to enable small and family businesses to thrive.

“Small business is central to economic dynamism, productivity, living standards, competition and innovation. Yet for many owners, running a small business has become harder than it needs to be.

“Small businesses are doing the heavy lifting in every town and suburb. They are the strength and vitality of local communities but too many are being worn down by costs, complexity and unfair practices they cannot control.

“This Budget is an opportunity for government to shift from short-term fixes to practical, lasting reforms that make it easier to start, run, grow and transform a small business,” said Mr Billson.

��Ҵ�ý’s submission calls for government action to improve the operating environment for Australia’s small businesses and family enterprises.

“Improving the tax settings to stimulate small business and family enterprise innovation and investment, for example, by introducing early-stage incentives such as a tax discount or offset, would allow businesses to retain more of their initial earnings for reinvestment when it matters most.

“The early years of a business often experience significant financial challenges including cash flow and access to financing, and these incentives will help prevent the ‘valley of death’ for small enterprises,” Mr Billson said.

“Australia's regulatory framework also needs to work better for small business and family enterprises. Requiring a small business impact statement for every Cabinet submission, preliminary and formal regulatory impact statement, and new policy proposal, would help ensure measures intended to affect, or likely to impact, small and family businesses are informed by practical insights and direct input from this community,” Mr Billson said.

“We need to make the enterprise environment better for small business and family enterprises to innovate and invest in their business, to continue to grow and thrive. Low-cost ways government can do this now include establishing transparent merchant fee structures and the ability for small businesses to recover the reasonable costs of processing electronic payments where least‑cost routing is unavailable,” Mr Billson added.

The Ombudsman said ensuring small and family business access to affordable insurance cover and the support they need from governments at all levels will also help improve the enterprise environment.

“Too often, regulation is designed with large organisations in mind and small businesses are left to absorb the cost and complexity.

“A small business first mindset should be adopted where every new policy and program is first be tested through a small business lens, so we are not unintentionally stifling enterprise and innovation,” Mr Billson added.

The Ombudsman said small businesses remain resilient, but resilience alone cannot sustain jobs, productivity and local communities.

“Small businesses do not want special treatment, they want a fair go.

“With the right policy settings, small businesses will innovate, invest, employ and grow. That is good for the economy, good for productivity and business dynamism, good for communities and good for Australia’s long-term prosperity.” Mr Billson said.

More information about ��Ҵ�ý and the 2026–27 Pre-Budget Submission is available on the ��Ҵ�ý website. MEDIA CONTACT: 0448 467 178 | media@asbfeo.gov.au

February 2026 Small Business Pulse - Resilience, realism and resolve shape the small business outlook

Stef Cox — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:10:15 +0000

February 2026 Small Business Pulse - Resilience, realism and resolve shape the small business outlook Stef Cox Thu, 02/26/2026 - 09:10

26 February 2026

Resilience, realism and resolve shape the small business outlook

February 2026

Key highlights:

The ��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse increased by 0.1% in the three months to February 2026, marking the fourth consecutive quarterly increase, and is 1.2% higher than the same time last year.
Small business owners are actively exploring growth and transformation opportunities, with strong interest in expanding offerings, improving customer reach, and considering new markets. Research into technology and artificial intelligence remains elevated, alongside demand for practical, hands-on support to turn ambition into action.
Operating conditions remain demanding, with margin pressure, high business costs and regulatory complexity shaping cautious decision‑making. Enquiries show sustained demand for tailored, practical, and in‑person assistance, particularly on employing staff, contracts, compliance, and risk.
Despite headwinds, small business owners continue to adapt and persist across the full business life cycle, from starting businesses through to succession, buying and selling, restructuring, and, for a growing cohort, seeking early guidance on financial stress and obligations.

��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse

Note: Scale starts at 75.0.

Source: ��Ҵ�ý, 2026.

Note: The ��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse did not reflect a COVID-related fall in 2020 as government support measures outweighed other economic impacts. As economic activity, including insolvencies, have returned to trend levels, the Pulse has reflected these shifts.

��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse movements

^{Source: ��Ҵ�ý, 2026.}

Spotlight on recent movements

^{Note: Scale starts at 77.6.}

^{Source: ��Ҵ�ý, 2026.}

The ��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse increased by 0.1% in the three months to February 2026, marking the fourth consecutive quarterly increase. It increased 1.2% compared to the same time last year.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, said this modest rise reflects self-initiated ambitions of enterprising women and men, as small business owners continue to adapt, prioritise and make deliberate choices to create their own opportunities.

“It’s not a large uplift but it is a sign that small business owners are making progress through their own decisions and effort. Small business owners continue to show strong intent to build and transform – exploring new products, new customer segments, and additional income streams. There is strong interest in improving reach through marketing and advertising, particularly online and social media, alongside sustained interest in harnessing technology and artificial intelligence to increase productivity and unlock new waves of growth,” Mr Billson said.

“While appetite for opportunities remains high, many small business owners are grappling with how to turn ambition into action. There is enthusiasm to invest and innovate, but also bewilderment about how to operationalise these ideas. Requests reflect a clear need for side-by-side, practical guidance on deployment and best-of-breed digital tools – particularly in industries such as construction, where margins are tight and the cost of getting it wrong is high.

“Demand for tailored, practical assistance remains elevated. Enquiries increasingly seek customised support, including business coaching and mentoring, rather than general information¹. Nearly half of small business owners report that an in-person meeting is the most effective way to receive information on business management. This reflects a strong desire to get things right – not just to comply, but to build confidence in decision-making²,” Mr Billson said.

The Small Business Pulse is a health check of objective vital signs for small business while also taking into account the ‘animal spirits’ that drive decision-making.

“Research into innovation and growth sits alongside caution about cost pressures and ongoing margin squeeze. Concerns about business durability exist at the same time as strong growth ambitions and a desire to improve profitability. In industries reliant on discretionary spending – such as retail and hospitality – and those exposed to weather variability, survival is prompting research into diversification and broader customer bases³. At the same time, the trading environment has become less forgiving.

Inefficiencies and missteps are more punishing than they once were. That reality can constrain productivity and growth, because innovation often requires both investment and risk. Small business owners are acutely aware of this and are seeking ways to minimise risk through avenues such as intellectual property protection, joint finance for innovation and careful scaling, particularly in manufacturing⁴,” Mr Billson said.

“Regulatory complexity remains a persistent concern. Small business owners are actively searching for clarity on what’s expected of them at a time of changing and elevated demands. This includes new and upcoming changes to seafood labelling in the hospitality industry and country of origin labelling requirements, branded text messages requirements and import obligations.

“Navigating government information remains difficult, with many small business owners finding the information confusing and difficult to apply to individual circumstances. Differences in state-based licensing regimes, payroll tax obligations and cross-border employment arrangements are especially difficult to navigate⁵.

“Enquiries about pausing, closing, and selling businesses are elevated, particularly from seasoned business operators. These enquiries are particularly prevalent from industries that rely on discretionary spending such as hospitality, retail and arts and recreation. Queries about transferring businesses to family members also remain elevated⁶. There has also been a slight uptick in small businesses experiencing financial stress seeking early guidance, and a growing cohort showing signs of more advanced distress, including increased enquiries about insolvency pathways and business closure from businesses seeking clarity on obligations and next steps.

“Across all stages of the business life cycle, the call is consistent: practical help matters. Many enquiries are not about strategy; they are about the business of running the business under pressure – and doing so without a compliance misstep. Contracts and invoicing remain key areas of enquiry, particularly arrangements for contractors and subcontractors. Employers with limited experience engaging staff are seeking clarity around employment obligations⁷. Uncertainty around obligations and costs can slow decision-making and constrain growth. Small business owners consistently want to ‘do the right thing’. Enquiries consistently seek best-practice guidance that is practical, proportionate, and tailored to real-world operations – because the consequences of getting it wrong can be severe.

“Despite these pressures, many small businesses continue to see starting a business as worthwhile – even when it is hard. The perpetual optimism of enterprising women and men continues to power the economy. Around seven in ten self-employed Australians believe this is a good place to start a business, citing opportunity, community support, and confidence in Australia’s legal system. However, many acknowledge that it is getting harder, particularly due to regulatory complexity and cash flow pressures⁸.

“The message from small business owners is consistent. Enterprising women and men are ambitious and prepared to adapt – but practical support is required: clear information, workable tools and guidance that can be applied to an individual business, not a textbook example.

The Pulse shows that progress is being built the way small businesses build most things – step by step, through effort, judgement, and persistence. When we reduce unnecessary friction and it becomes easier to do the right thing, enterprising Australians don’t just cope: they create, employ, serve their communities and find a way forward.

Small business owners show practical resolve, not performative optimism. That effort continues to keep the economy moving,” Mr Billson said.

MEDIA CONTACT: 0448 467 178 / www.asbfeo.gov.au

Download the Small Business Pulse

Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (December 2025 – January 2026).
��Ҵ�ý, 2022. This survey was in the field in June 2022, with 1040 respondents.
Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (June 2025 – January 2026).
At 31 December 2025. Based on Reserve Bank of Australia, Statistical Tables, Table D14: Lending to Business – Business Finance Outstanding by Business Size and Interest Rate Type. Accessed 19 February 2026.
Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (December 2025).
Where age of business could be identified. Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (December 2025 – January 2026) and ��Ҵ�ý, 2026.
Where age of business could be identified. Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (December 2025 – January 2026).
Australian Survey of Social Attitudes 2024 Waves 1,2,3, 4 and 5, Version 3, Accessed 27 November 2025.

Enterprising Australians deserve better: Spotlight on sole traders

Emily Carter — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 05:19:56 +0000

Enterprising Australians deserve better: Spotlight on sole traders Emily Carter Thu, 01/29/2026 - 16:19

29 January 2026

Australia’s sole traders — the spirited, self-starting enterprising women and men who power our communities — are far more numerous and diverse than most policy settings recognise. New analysis by the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (��Ҵ�ý), drawing on customised integrated administrative data in the ABS’ DataLab insights, reveals a vibrant enterprise cohort that has long been hiding in plain sight.

Nearly 1.7 million Australians operated as sole traders in 2021–22, underscoring the scale and significance of this enterprising cohort. In an economy where working lives have become more fluid — with Australians blending employment, enterprise and caring roles — understanding sole traders has never been more crucial. Yet despite their importance, these enterprising Australians often remain overlooked in program design, regulatory settings and economic debate.

��Ҵ�ý Ombudsman Bruce Billson says it’s time for the nation to “see” sole traders more clearly.

“Sole traders are not just economic participants — they are the beating heart of enterprise in our country. They’re innovators, problem solvers and community contributors. If we genuinely believe in a fair go, we need policies that recognise the real lives, pressures and possibilities of this dynamic group.”

“Sole traders are the unsung heroes of our economy. They are not just economic actors – they are community builders, innovators, and problem-solvers. If we truly believe in a fair go, it’s time to give sole traders the recognition and support they deserve,” Mr Billson said.

Key Insights

Women on the rise: Female sole traders grew by 31% over five years, more than double the rate for men. Women now make up 40% of sole traders, many balancing business with caring responsibilities.
Cultural diversity: CALD sole traders account for 37% of the total, with strong growth in transport and warehousing – sectors critical to supply chains and the gig economy.
Regional resilience: A quarter of sole traders operate outside major cities, providing essential services and economic activity in regional Australia.
Emerging industries: Health care, social assistance, and transport are driving growth, meeting needs in aged care, disability support, and delivery services.

Challenges

Many sole traders carry pressures that larger businesses do not shoulder alone. In 2025, nearly half of all disputes taken to ��Ҵ�ý by sole traders in the transport, postal and warehousing sector were payment related — a stark reminder of their vulnerability in supply chains dominated by bigger players.

Others juggle long term health conditions, disability or significant caring responsibilities, all while keeping their business afloat.

Call to Action

Billson says the findings demand a policy rethink:

Improve visibility and insights to capture the true scale and diversity of sole traders.
Fairer payment practices to protect those most exposed to late or non-payment.
Support for carers and those with health challenges, recognising the human realities behind the ABN.
Inclusive programs that embrace cultural diversity and regional dynamics.
Practical know-how and tech support to help sole traders thrive.
Regulator evaluation to ensure compliance obligations are right-sized for micro-businesses.

“Even a sharper focus on sole traders when thinking about tax simplification and regulatory streamlining would deliver big dividends. Sole traders make up the vast majority of Australia’s businesses — the everyday enterprisers keeping local economies ticking. When such a large and dynamic part of our economy is overlooked, policy simply can’t keep pace with real working lives,” Mr Billson said.

“If Australia is truly the land of opportunity and entrepreneurship, we must ensure sole traders – in all their variety – get the recognition and support they deserve,” Mr Billson said.

Sole Traders - The Unsung Hero of Australia's Economy.pdf | pdf 803.08 KB

Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman welcomes successor Lynda McAlary- Smith

Emily Carter — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:26:03 +0000

Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman welcomes successor Lynda McAlary- Smith Emily Carter Mon, 12/22/2025 - 12:26

22 December 2025

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, the Hon Bruce Billson has welcomed the announcement of the Lynda McAlary-Smith as his successor.

Ms McAlary-Smith is the current Victorian Small Business Commissioner and will commence in her new role on 11 March 2026 at the expiration of Mr Billson’s 5-year term.

“Lynda is an excellent choice as the next Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, given her established network of stakeholders, regulators and policy makers and experience in dispute resolution and advocacy in support of small business in Victoria”, Mr Billson said.

“I’m looking forward to supporting the transition and ensuring Australia’s small and family business community continue to have a strong and fearless ally in their corner, an authoritative and persuasive voice and an advocate of constructive policy measures and initiatives that will help to ‘energise enterprise’.

“After a record year of assistance requests, ground-breaking analytical and research insights and real and meaningful progress on many advocacy priorities including ‘right-sizing’ regulation, improved small business access to justice and then need for more targeted tax reform, ��Ҵ�ý has positive momentum that with Lynda at the helm will no doubt carry forward and be added to.

“In announcing Lynda’s appointment, the Minister’s thanks for my significant contribution and strong advocacy on behalf of the small and family business community are appreciated,” Mr Billson said.

MEDIA CONTACT: 0448 467 178 | media@asbfeo.gov.au

Small businesses renewal accelerates as owners embrace growth and transformation

Emily Carter — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:33:26 +0000

Small businesses renewal accelerates as owners embrace growth and transformation Emily Carter Wed, 12/03/2025 - 10:33

03 December 2025

Key highlights: ��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse November 2025

The ��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse increased by 0.8% in the three months to November 2025 – the third consecutive quarterly increase. It increased 0.5% compared to the same time last year.
There is strong momentum amongst small businesses to explore growth and transformation opportunities, with owners leaning into fresh ways to expand their offerings and delight customers. There has been continued momentum in research into opportunities to harness technology and artificial intelligence to boost efficiency and power new waves of growth.
Enquiries about the logistics of passing on existing businesses to family members have increased, with signals that these new business owners are implementing new ideas while preserving the family business legacy[1]. This is affirmation that succession can bring new insights and perspectives that can reinvent a business.
Interest in starting a new business remains elevated. Over the last two years, this has been evenly split between men and women[2]. Health care and social assistance and transport, postal and warehousing had the highest percentage increases in businesses in 2024-25[3].

��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse

Note: Scale starts at 75.0.

Source: ��Ҵ�ý, 2025.

��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse Changes

Source: ��Ҵ�ý, 2025.

Spotlight on recent movements

Source: ��Ҵ�ý, 2025.

The ��Ҵ�ý Small Business Pulse increased by 0.8% in the three months to November 2025 – the third consecutive quarterly increase. It increased 0.5% compared to the same time last year.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, said there is a real tailwind building for small business growth and transformation.

“With relatively stable economic conditions and a reduced likelihood of further interest rate relief in the near term, the Pulse reflects the inherent optimism of enterprising women and men with business owners focussed on creating their own opportunities and positive momentum”, Mr Billson said

“Small business owners are leaning into fresh ways to expand their offerings and delight customers. There has been continued momentum in research into opportunities to harness technology and artificial intelligence to boost efficiency and power new waves of growth – momentum that’s reshaping the small business landscape.

“There is continuing momentum for small businesses to explore opportunities to expand into fresh markets and investigate the delicious opportunities of digital technologies – including artificial intelligence - to boost efficiency and unlock new avenues for growth.

“Enquiries about the logistics of passing on existing businesses to family members have increased, with signals these new next generation small business owners are implementing new ideas while preserving the family business legacy[4]. This is affirmation that succession can bring new insights and perspectives that can reinvent a business,” Mr Billson said.

The Small Business Pulse is a health check of objective vital signs for small business while also taking into account the ‘animal spirits’ that drive decision making.

“There is strong momentum in small business owners’ research into how technology may assist with delighting more customers and boosting productivity by streamlining administrative tasks. Queries about e‑commerce and websites, digital and social media marketing and the opportunities artificial intelligence may provide remain elevated. Interest is high in how artificial intelligence may streamline compliance and other administrative tasks, as well business expansion. Risk management is also a key consideration for small business owners, with strong appetite for practical information on how to increase their cyber security,” Mr Billson said.

“Small business owners are comparing tools and looking for clear information on how this might work for them, particularly through workshops or face-to-face meetings to explore their unique business prospects. There is a clear expectation that regulators will provide small businesses with practical information to use these tools to comply with changing requirements, such as single touch payroll and payday superannuation requirements.

“Enquiries about hiring staff have increased, with many small business owners wanting clarity on the differences between employees and independent contractors so they can get things right from the outset[5]. Interest in remote workers remains elevated, driven by more small businesses operating from digital offices and the ongoing challenge of finding the right staff in many regional communities. In sectors where hands-on workers are essential – like construction – the struggle to fill vacancies has remained a persistent pressure throughout the year. Employers are also concerned about ensuring that they are paying staff appropriately, with key areas of concern including penalty rates, casual staff and staff aged under twenty-one.

“Concerns about other regulatory requirements have eased this quarter but remain stubbornly high. In addition to employer responsibilities, tax obligations continue to prove challenging, particularly for sole traders and new businesses unsure what startup costs they can claim as tax deductions[6]. Regulators’ terminology can also be confusing for entrepreneurs. For example, confusion on whether personal services income is business income remained elevated throughout the year.

“Business registrations are also a key area of confusion. Many small businesses are uncertain whether they can expand their business services and products under their existing business or require a new business entity or structure[7]. Finding information can be especially challenging for some cohorts. Small business owners from a culturally and linguistically diverse background report less confidence in finding business information than the general small business population[8].

“Interest in starting a new business remains elevated. Over the last two years, this has been evenly split between men and women[9]. Health care and social assistance and transport, postal and warehousing had the highest percentage increases in businesses in 2024-25[10].

“This shift in business composition is reflected in requests for ��Ҵ�ý’s help. Disputes requiring a dedicated ��Ҵ�ý case manager were most commonly in the transport, postal and warehousing industry this quarter. Nearly one in five of these small business owners had been in business for less than one year, with most of these early-stage business owners speaking a language other than English at home.

“Small business owners’ enquiries exploring closure or sale are elevated – often from people who still have choices on the table and are seeking clear guidance on the practicalities: how to transfer tangible and intangible assets, what a sale involves, and the capital gains considerations that follow. At the same time, there’s been slight rise in owners facing genuine financial distress, with the lingering effects of natural disasters adding extra pressure for many already doing it tough.

“Strong, well-sequenced and timely support can help small businesses navigate change with certainty, invest with conviction, and contribute more boldly to Australia’s economic dynamism.

“That’s why we have proposed 14 Steps to ‘energise enterprise’ designed to provide policy settings to provide a clear pathway for renewal and transformation. We’re not just setting out practical and constructive actions to support enterprising women and men – we’re seeking to reduce the complexity of owning and running a business, improve incentives, boost confidence, and create the conditions for businesses to thrive,” Mr Billson said.

You can find them here www.asbfeo.gov.au/14-steps

MEDIA CONTACT: 0448 467 178 / www.asbfeo.gov.au

Download the November 2025 Small Business Pulse

[1] Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (August to October 2025).

[2] Self-identified gender. Australian Survey of Social Attitudes 2024 Waves 1,2,3, 4 and 5, Version 3, Accessed 27 November 2025.

[3] Australian Bureau of Statistics, Counts of Australian Businesses, July 2021 – June 2025.

[4] Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (August to October 2025).

[5] Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (August to October 2025).

[6] Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (June to October 2025).

[7] Department of Industry, Science and Resources Contact Centre Operational Data (June to October 2025).

[8] Defined as speaking a language other than English at home. ��Ҵ�ý research for the ��Ҵ�ý Small Business Natural Disaster Preparedness and Resilience Inquiry (2022).

[9] Self-identified gender. Australian Survey of Social Attitudes 2024 Waves 1,2,3, 4 and 5, Version 3, Accessed 27 November 2025.

[10] Australian Bureau of Statistics, Counts of Australian Businesses, July 2021 – June 2025.

GHG EMISSIONS REPORTING MAY IMPACT SMEs SOONER THAN EXPECTED

Emily Carter — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 23:16:19 +0000

GHG EMISSIONS REPORTING MAY IMPACT SMEs SOONER THAN EXPECTED Emily Carter Thu, 10/09/2025 - 10:16

09 October 2025

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE: Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman and Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand

Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) are urged to educate themselves on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions measurement, as climate-related financial disclosures requirements for large businesses and some government entities, could see SMEs asked for their GHG emissions if they are a supplier.

“Mandatory climate-related financial disclosures commenced for large business and financial institutions at the beginning of this year, but what smaller businesses may not realise is this could also affect them,” said Ainslie van Onselen, CA ANZ CEO.

“While there is currently no obligation for small business to report information relating to their GHG emissions, if SMEs are in the supply chain for large businesses or government, they may be asked to provide this information, especially if they are in high-emitting sectors such as Energy, Agriculture and Transportation and Logistics.”

Chartered Accountants ANZ (CA ANZ) and the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (��Ҵ�ý) have collaborated to produce a guide to help SMEs understand what information they may be asked by larger businesses they supply to, regarding their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The guide urges them to gain a better understanding of the value chain in which they operate and assess where GHG emissions might be occurring within their business.

“I encourage SMEs to take the time to read the guide and become familiar with climate-related reporting requirements around GHG emissions. Being prepared and understanding potential reporting obligations could give your business a competitive advantage,” said Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson.

“By including climate-related information in tenders, it will give confidence to potential new clients or customers, that SMEs are prepared and are considering sustainability issues,” Mr Billson said.

CA ANZ and ��Ҵ�ý’s climate-related financial disclosures guide for SMEs can be downloaded from CA ANZ’s website or or ��Ҵ�ý’s website

ENDS

Celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of family owned businesses on National Family Business Day, 19 September

Emily Carter — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 06:51:17 +0000

Celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of family owned businesses on National Family Business Day, 19 September Emily Carter Thu, 09/18/2025 - 16:51

18 September 2025

Family owned businesses play a crucial role in the economy and our communities. Some of Australia’s most successful businesses are family businesses. They are also some of the most enduring, over generations, building a legacy in name and value to the Australian community. And for some of Australia’s largest businesses that once started out as a family business, their business success is also part of Australia’s economic fabric.

Seven out of 10 businesses are family owned and 40 per cent are run by a couple. Many of Australia’s family owned business are in the farming, hospitality, convenience and construction sectors, as well as professional services.

As if owning and running a small business isn’t challenging enough, these challenges are magnified when it comes to family businesses.

“Their personal identity is often tied up with their family business, there’s no switching off at the end of the day and they are often investing their energy, time, and personal funds, to make it work. Financial and emotional pressures are amplified when many have put their home on the line to build up their business. And often, the family dining table is the board table or work zone, impinging on any semblance of work/life balance, adding potential fragility to family dynamics and relationships,” Mr Billson said.

“Australia is one of the few major economies that records and recognises the immense contribution of family members to a business, even when they might not receive a separate income for their endeavours. Many more don't record or are directly paid for the work they do in chipping in to help out the family business, and some aren’t paid the market wage.

“In terms of workforce too, as we age, those in work associated with a family business are more likely to stay working, making up about 13 per cent of all workers aged over 70. Among those over 80, it rises to 24 per cent of all workers being a contributing family worker.

“We also see others who have retired from their own careers go to work in a business started by their children, and fill roles wherever needed often for little or no wage.”

Family businesses are spread across many industries and vary in size. 25 per cent of contributing family workers are in agriculture, forestry and fishing. Family farms running sheep, beef cattle or grain account for two out of three contributing family members across the entire agricultural sector.

10 per cent of those working in a family business are in construction, with similar percentage in accommodation, food services and retail.

Succession planning is all the more paramount for family businesses.

“When business decisions are also family decisions there can be an added layer of emotion. What one family member thinks is best for the business may not align with what other family members envision.

“For the parent who may want to pass on the family business to their children, the next generation may not be interested or have career or business interests elsewhere and not necessarily aligned to the family business.

“There can be unique situations involving family dynamics and perception of equality when it comes to succession. And where family wealth is involved, there can be additional complexities to manage legal, tax and accounting implications,” said Mr Billson.

“In meeting with a variety of business owners over the years, one consistent theme comes up when it comes to the next generation contemplating stepping into the family business.

“The young adult children of family owned businesses tell me that they don’t want to enter the family business, often citing the lived experience seeing the dedicated efforts by their parents over the years. It’s a little too close to comfort to have seen the highs and lows of running their own business.”

Family businesses also take inspiration from future-proofing generational livelihood.

“Family businesses are deeply driven by family values and are often community champions. They sponsor local sports teams, help build community infrastructure, and establish charitable foundations that add value to communities.

“But for the families that have a go, their passion and drive is commendable. National Family Business Day is a great day to remember the entrepreneurial spirit of family business owners and celebrate their efforts and impact to our communities. But let’s not only give recognition on this day but every day. Family businesses – we see you, we hear you, we celebrate you.” Mr Billson said.

Mr Billson praised Family Business Association (FBA) for their continuous efforts showcasing and supporting the value of Australia’s family owned businesses.

“FBA is uniquely focused peak body for family business and they help their members navigate the intricate juncture of family dynamics and business operations. They provide valuable support and insights for family businesses including succession planning, governance, financial management and strategic planning.” Mr Billson added.

More information about ��Ҵ�ý is available on the ��Ҵ�ý website.

MEDIA CONTACT: 0448 467 178 | media@asbfeo.gov.au

Help small businesses thrive this MSME Day

Emily Carter — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 03:14:35 +0000

Help small businesses thrive this MSME Day Emily Carter Thu, 06/26/2025 - 13:14

26 June 2025

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.

“World Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Day is the perfect chance to celebrate, acknowledge and support the small businesses that are the heartbeat of our communities and engine room of the economy,” said Mr Billson.

“Small businesses contribute 1 in every 3 dollars generated in our economy and employ over 5.3 million people, which is 2 in every 5 private sector jobs. This is a vital contribution to Australia’s prosperity and livelihoods, made possible by incredible resilience and relentless personal commitment to succeed at a time when many are doing it tough right now.

“Our economic wellbeing, livelihood opportunities and community wellbeing would be so much less without the extraordinary contribution and drive of small and family business people.

“Beyond the economic and employment contribution, small business leaders are generous community-minded people, more likely to volunteer, provide training opportunities, support local clubs and causes, and provide the gathering places and the ‘social fabric’ people rely on.

“The best way to support small business is to be a kindly customer – patient and understanding, with good and generous intent.”

Mr Billson called for a greater appreciation and consideration of the contribution and interests of small businesses who don’t look for hand-outs but value a supportive business environment, responsiveness to their challenges and recognition of their contribution.

“By creating the Prime Minister’s Small Business Awards and for state, territory and federal governments to require every Cabinet submission to include a small business impact statement, the acknowledgement and ‘front of mind’ consideration of small business sends a very strong and supportive message backed by practical action.

“Reducing unnecessary headwinds and celebrating small business excellence can encourage the next generation, as well as current small and family business owners and leaders, to continue to innovate, invest and be inspired by small business entrepreneurship and success.

“We all benefit from thriving small businesses. We can all contribute to boosting small businesses and practical policy action can improve prospects for success and resilience.

“That’s why we need to put wind in the sails of small business and remove unnecessary barriers and burdens that needlessly impede prospects for success. Greater attention is needed in creating an ecosystem that supports small business to thrive and putting small and family businesses front of mind for our policy makers and regulators, as we’ve outlined in our 14 steps to energise enterprise.

“On world MSME Day, I encourage you to join us in any way you can, to celebrate and thank our small and family businesses. Help us spread the word about how important small business is to Australia, and help small business thrive.” Mr Billson said.

See also

MSME Day is an initiative of the United Nations General Assembly. 

MEDIA CONTACT: 0448 467 178 / media@asbfeo.gov.au 

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