Peter Strong: Why 2018 was a good year for most small business owners
Council Of Small Business Of Australia chief executive Peter Strong reflects on the small business outcomes, good and bad, from 2018.
“Formula for failure”: Sweeping industrial relations reforms on the table for Labor
Labor's industrial relations spokesperson Brendan O'Connor says Labor will consider sweeping changes to Australia's employment landscape.
Financial complaints skyrocket: Hundreds of businesses spill the beans to new watchdog AFCA
In its first month of operation, AFCA has recorded a 47% increase in complaints, with 460 small businesses spilling the beans on their banking and financial services grievances.
“Peering into the darkness”: Legal battles are costing Aussie businesses thousands
Australian small businesses are losing thousands to legal battles, according to a new report looking at access to justice for SMEs released by ASBFEO.
Corporate red tape reductions to save SMEs $300 million over four years
The federal government has unveiled ASIC red tape reductions that will save about 2200 SMEs almost $37,000 each year by removing reporting requirements.
“Life or death for small business”: Financial complaints authority to appoint dedicated ombudsman for SMEs
The newly established Australian Financial Complaints Authority is bringing on a small business ombudsman to look after the small end of town.
Michaelia Cash: Instant asset write-off extension on the cards ahead of MYEFO Christmas for SMEs
Another extension of the instant asset write-off scheme is on the cards ahead of MYEFO, small business Minister Michaelia Cash says.
Music fees: New structure released for cafes and restaurants amid cost concerns
Businesses playing music in their stores, cafes or restaurants will need to move over to a new system in the coming months as concern over costs builds.
Wasted opportunity: 47% of small businesses haven’t heard of the instant asset write-off, research finds
While the government's instant asset write-off scheme forms a key part of its small business policy, a large number of firms aren't using it.
Music in stores: Licensing fees set to increase as “illogical” system causes headaches for business owners
COSBOA chief executive Peter Strong is calling for urgent action to help small business owners better navigate music licensing fees.
“Impossible to run a business”: Fair Work Commission to force employers to justify flexible work decisions
Employers will have to provide written responses to employees justifying why they've denied flexible work requests, the Fair Work Commission has decided.
Low literacy and numeracy skills a major pain point for employers: Report
New research has revealed that Australian small businesses are struggling with skill shortages that are restricting their ability to develop.
