Payment times are chief among the problems impacting on small businesses, and they will more than likely be the focus of an ASBFEO inquiry in the not too distant future.
Payment times, payroll tax and paperwork are shaping up as some of the key issues facing small-business owners around the country, as the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman’s – ASBFEO – consultation period hits the half-way mark.
ASBFEO Kate Carnell said small business operators from across Australia have been having their say during the consultation, which was launched to hear directly from small businesses about the issues impacting their day-to-day operations.
‘Since the launch of the consultation period in April, I’ve been travelling around the country and meeting with small business owners about what’s holding them back and standing in the way of growing and expanding their operations,’ Ms Carnell said.
Some common themes are certainly emerging, with payment times chief among the problems impacting on small businesses, and one that will more than likely be the focus of an ASBFEO inquiry in the not too distant future.
Other issues that are being raised include payroll tax, difficulties around hiring and firing, red tape, issues with the banks and access to affordable high speed internet,’ she said.
Ms Carnell said that as well as speaking with small businesses directly, many have also been utilising the ASBFEO’s interactive online platform to share their ideas.
‘The interactive online ‘thinkBIGsmallTALK’ platform allows users to not only put forward their views and opinions, but to rate the ideas of others and offer practical measures that will positively shape the Australian small business and family enterprise landscape,’ Ms Carnell said.
Ms Carnell is encouraging small businesses to continue submitting their ideas and lodging their complaints throughout the coming weeks.
The ASBFEO’s official consultation period closes at the end of June. The results of discussions with the sector will be reflected in an advocacy agenda, which will outline the ASBFEO’s focus going forward.
