State Government procurement opportunities are more accessible than ever for small business owners and provide a solid opportunity to diversify your income stream and build long term partnerships. Whether you’re a regional tradesperson, a professional services provider, or a product manufacturer, Western Australian Buy Local Policy 2022 has the...
Since it started in Western Australia in late 2020, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has had significant scrutiny, with final reports on the Royal Commission and a formal review of the scheme delivered in 2023. The Australian Government’s response has included making legislative changes that started on 3 October 2024 that you should...
The past ten years have brought major shifts in the Australian small business landscape. Some sectors have boomed, while others have evolved, reflecting changes in technology, consumer habits and the environment. And of course, no recap of the past decade would be complete without mentioning COVID-19, which reshaped how Australian small businesses...
From 26 August 2025, the Australian Government’s right to disconnect laws will apply to small business employers. Australia’s workplace landscape has undergone significant changes recently, with the Federal Government passing a series of amendments to the Fair Work Act – also known as the 'Closing Loopholes' laws. The right to disconnect laws were...
The SBDC’s Small Business Friendly Approvals Program has been awarded for its partnership approach at the recent Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) WA Awards, taking out the silver category for Best Practice in Collaboration Across Government Agencies. The IPAA WA Achievement Awards recognise individual and organisational...
Each year as the annual budget is handed down, there is a conversation about what’s in it for small businesses. While much of the analysis focuses on programs that are directly targeting SMEs, it is worth looking beyond the headline measures at how some of the investments open the doors for small businesses, either as part of the supply chain...
Kerry Ridley's business, My Little Bookshop, began as a mobile bookshop in May 2019. Kerry discovered our SBDC services as she was preparing to open her first 'bricks and mortar' bookstore on the Rockingham foreshore. At the SBDC, we're here to support all kinds of businesses at all stages of their journey. My Little Bookshop has grown from being a...
The Federal Budget, announced on 25 March 2025, provides a range of support programs to help improve the operating environment for small business owners. Here is an overview of the key announcements likely to have an impact on small businesses in Western Australia. Please note: these announcements will need to be passed as law through the Federal...
For small business owners in Western Australia, the 2026-27 Federal Budget brings a mix of tax changes, investment incentives and regulatory reforms. The measures announced may affect businesses in different ways depending on their circumstances, so business owners may wish to seek professional advice to better understand the implications. Here is...
Ending an employment relationship is one of the tougher parts of running a small business. While most business owners want to do the right thing, it’s not always clear what that looks like in practice. Understanding your employer obligations and following a fair process can reduce the risk of disputes and help you move forward with confidence. We...
The Federal Budget, announced on 14 May 2024, provides a range of support programs to help improve the operating environment for small business owners. The Budget provides $641.1 million in targeted support for small businesses. Here is an overview of the key announcements likely to have an impact on small businesses. Please note: these...
More than two thirds of WA small businesses are now operating in small business friendly local governments.
