Ombudsman names and shames electric ‘undergarment’ training company 20Volts for refusing to engage in mediation
The ombudsman accused 20Volts, which offers electro muscular stimulation training, of failing to engage with alternative dispute resolution processes brought forward by an unnamed small business.
Bruce Billson says regulation falling “disproportionately” on small business
In a submission to the Department of Prime Minister & Cabinet, Bruce Billson says small businesses are made to shoulder the weight of ‘disproportionate’ government regulation.
Billson calls on government to help SMEs resolve disputes with social media giants
The small business ombudsman has advocated for government support for small businesses that trade on digital platforms, in his submission to the ACCC's digital platform services inquiry.
Election 2022: What does the recent history of small business ministers and shadow ministers tell us?
This is the first instalment of a four-part series in which Neil Slonim, an independent SME finance advocate, takes a closer look at which of the major parties are better for small business.
‘Insurance catastrophe’ declared as PM warns insurers to deal fairly
Insurance companies and banks have been put on notice by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, as the deadly storm cell pummels the east coast, wreaking havoc on homes and businesses.
Ombudsman tours regional Australia in disaster planning review, as CPA calls for ‘off the shelf’ support
While disasters such as bushfires and floods happen every year, there is not currently a scalable framework for response, says CPA Australia.
Small business ombudsman launches inquiry into SMEs’ preparedness for natural disasters
The inquiry comes as a damning Deloitte Access Economics report found just 3% of Australia's disaster funds are put towards preventing disaster.
Small business mental health programs get $6.7 million funding boost
Small business advocates have welcomed the new funding commitments as Australian small business owners enter the third year of the pandemic.
It’s time to talk about mental wellbeing at work
While COVID-19 has seen us take stock of our stress levels, need for discussion around mental wellbeing in the workplace remains.
Part of a “strong and thriving culture”: Prioritising mental health in the workplace
Speaking on a recent SmartCompany webinar hosted by MYOB Chief Employee Experience Officer Helen Lea, an expert panel shared how business owners can take the lead in prioritising mental health as we enter this next stage of post-pandemic life.
Bruce Billson says amusement sector could stay shut due to insurance crisis
The small business ombudsman said the amusement sector faced a ‘clear and present danger’ as a result of businesses being unable to get insurance cover.
Bruce Billson backs calls to improve ATO handling of small business disputes
The small business ombudsman is backing calls for the tax office to better inform SMEs of their rights, after a report found many tax professionals and business owners think communications are ineffective.
