Running a small business has always come with its challenges, but for many Western Australian business owners, current conditions are adding new layers of pressure.
Rising operating costs, ongoing fuel price volatility and broader economic uncertainty are making it harder to manage day to day operations and plan ahead. For some, this is leading to increased financial strain, longer working hours and added stress, which can take a toll on both mental health and overall wellbeing.
While these pressures are being felt across the small business community, mental wellbeing is often overlooked. Taking time to recognise and manage stress is an important part of running a sustainable business, helping you to make clearer decisions and navigate challenges more effectively. To help you do this, we’ve put together this list of resources designed with small business owners in mind.
NewAccess for Small Business Owners
New Access for Small Business Owners is a free and confidential mental health coaching and support program. During the program, you’ll work with a coach (who has a small business background) to identify and discuss the challenges you’re facing and create an achievable, personalised plan based on your needs. You can access up to eight free sessions to work through your plan, learn practical skills and review your progress.
Ahead for Business
Ahead for Business has a range of free tools to help you take action when it comes to managing your health and wellbeing. It includes resources to help you assess your situation and create a wellbeing program in your business.
The program aims to help small business owners and their employees develop their knowledge, skills and practices around mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. The training encourages users to reflect on and learn strategies to support their own mental health and wellbeing, and support others in the workplace.
R U OK? Day
The resources on the R U OK? Day website offer guidance on how you can start a life-changing conversation and help build a more connected world - at work, at home and in the community.
On 10 September 2026, or on any day, ask the question R U OK? not only to your employees, but also yourself.
Free business advice from the SBDC
We provide a range of services to the small business community, including free business advice and a dedicated dispute resolution service. If you would like to talk to a business adviser about your situation, call us on 133 140 or book an appointment to speak with a member of our team.
What else can I do?
There are some easy steps you can take to avoid exhaustion and burn out:
- Regularly switch off and disconnect from devices.
- Prioritise spending time with family and friends.
- Talk with your GP about how you are feeling.
- Schedule in holidays or short breaks.
- Develop some clear boundaries to help you separate business from personal time.
When it comes to your employees, it’s ok to ask people about the stress they are experiencing and ask them why they are feeling that way. Sometimes just letting someone know that you are there to listen without being judgemental is a good way to help them cope and for you to better understand your team.
What if I need to talk to someone now?
If you need to talk to someone now, the following services are free and available 24 hours a day:
- Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
- Lifeline - 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
More information
For more tips on how to manage your wellbeing as a business owner, read:
