Labor reworks casual rules, gig economy changes in amended IR Bill
The Albanese government has scrapped its plan to impose civil penalties for breaching some casual work rules, and offered assurances that 'employee-like' gig workers will not count as full employees, in a fresh round of amendments to its IR Bill.
Victorian auditor questions tens of millions of dollars in COVID-19 small business grants
Tens of millions of dollars in emergency COVID-19 grants were paid to Victorian small businesses in error, including $18.3 million towards businesses the state government considered a heightened fraud risk, according to a scathing assessment from the Victorian Auditor-General's Office.
Exclusive: Small Business Minister Julie Collins on Labor’s SME track record and IR “fear-mongering”
In an exclusive discussion with SmartCompany, the Small Business Minister backed Labor's achievements for SMEs 18 months since the election.
COSBOA, Tony Burke face off in campaign to split contentious IR reforms
COSBOA is locked in a staredown with Employment Minister Tony Burke, as the federal government refuses to split off elements of its highly contentious Closing the Loopholes industrial relations reform package.
Pensioners’ work bonus limit to get $4,000 boost
Pensioners also in a form of employment will be able to earn up to $4,000 more without their pension being affected.
Labor under pressure to pass workplace reforms covering PTSD for first responders, domestic violence and regulation of silica dust
Labor will face pressure to push through parts of its own workplace law reform package with the crossbench and coalition teaming up to force the government's hand.
Jacinta Allan to replace Dan Andrews as Premier of Victoria
Victorian MP Jacinta Allan will take over as state premier, with Ben Carroll serving as her deputy, when outgoing leader Daniel Andrews steps down at 5pm.
Dan Andrews’ small business legacy: Lockdowns, grants, and tax reform
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews will step down from the role on Wednesday, calling time on a nearly decade-long tenure which coincided with one of the most turbulent economic crises of the past century.
Daniel Andrews resigns as Victorian premier, retires from politics
Daniel Andrews will step down as Victoria's leader and as the member for Mulgrave effective 5pm on Wednesday.
Government denies skilled migrant levy is now a “secret” small business tax grab
Small businesses sponsoring skilled migrant workers are being subjected to a secret "tax grab" by the Albanese government, the federal opposition says, claiming a levy designed to prop up skills and training programs is instead flowing into consolidated government funds.
NSW budget: 10 key cuts and funding announcements for small business
NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey handed down the 2023-2024 state budget on Tuesday, presenting a significant shake-up to a $700 million innovation fund established by his predecessors, while taking the razor to the state's tourism promotion department and EV incentives.
NSW budget: Payroll tax reforms, boosted procurement, and event funding on business advocate wish lists
As the state government prepares to hand down its economic roadmap, here are the recommendations put forward by business advocates, including measures designed to advance small and medium-sized enterprises.
