On 1 July 2024, Business Local became SBDC Regional. While the name has changed, we’re still here providing you with free business advice and support in your area. Find your SBDC Regional provider . When Melissa Raffan’s career took an unexpected trajectory and she became a small business owner, she was driven by her personal passion for...
Starting a new business is an exciting venture, but it comes with its own set of financial and legal obligations. One of the most crucial ones is managing your tax. Imagine receiving your first company tax bill and shortly after, a notice to pay your first PAYG instalment for the upcoming financial year. This scenario often catches new businesses...
To help you avoid or limit damage from a disaster, we have created a business continuity plan template that's suitable for any type of business.
Do you want to promote your business online but find it hard to know where to focus your attention? Being online provides your business with a number of benefits that shouldn’t be ignored. These range from making it easier for potential customers to find your business through to providing new sales channels to complement face-to-face sales. The...
Carrying out a couple of quick checks online can help you avoid falling prey to fraudulent sellers and suppliers targeting small business owners. When looking to purchase products or services for your business, finding a great deal can often be the deciding factor in choosing to buy from. Unfortunately in many cases, a deal that appears to be ‘too...
Not sure where to start when it comes to promoting your business on social media? Social media can seem overwhelming, but fortunately there are a few basic principles that can help guide you through the ‘getting started’ stages. The golden rule of social media is to engage with your target market on their preferred platform, using relevant and...
In Hollywood movies and Netflix shows, ending an employment contract is as simple as yelling “You’re fired” or "I quit!" In reality, it’s not this simple. Difficult situations can crop up with your team, so here are some steps to help you manage the risk assessment, comply with employment legislation and have those hard to have conversations. 1...
Have you been wondering how the Federal Government’s instant asset write-off may benefit your business? As part of the 2026 Federal Budget, the $20,000 instant asset write-off is set to become a permanent tax scheme for small business owners to access. Here's a quick rundown on the instant asset write-off and whether it’s something you should take...
Buying an established business can be challenging – but it can help knowing there’s somewhere you can turn for support. Jasmine Kik from Fireplaces WA uses our SBDC services regularly and shares her story. Fireplaces WA is a family-owned business offering a range of gas, wood, bio-ethanol, and electric fireplaces. According to the Fireplaces WA...
Tax time can be a stressful time for many business owners. It can be confusing keeping on top of deadlines, changing rules and deductions. The best place to start with your taxes is by enlisting the help of a tax professional to make sure you’re on track with your deductions and tax obligations. You don’t want to claim for deductions you later find...
A curated collection of workshops for small business owners looking to boost their retail skills.
At this time of year, it’s common for businesses to take on extra staff to help them through the busy festive period. We asked our team of business advisers for their tips about hiring casual staff over the festive period, to help you make the most of hiring casual staff for your business. Tip #1: Be prepared Taking on a new staff member – or more...