A feature of my role as the Small Business Commissioner is that I am often asked about emerging issues in the small business landscape, particularly as each new year commences. While I sometimes wish for a clearer crystal ball, the benefit of having a network of peers across business and all levels of government, as well as having access to our in...
They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but it certainly doesn’t feel that way when someone copies your business idea, product or artwork. So what protections do you have available to stop a copycat? There is nothing that can infuriate a business owner as much as noticing something they have come up with being used by another business...
Find out what Western Australian business owners have said are the most important things they have learnt about running a business.
If you’re working full-time but are considering starting a business, here are four top tips to help you make the transition. Step one: Do your research Before you take a leap of faith, learn as much as you can about your selected industry. (It’s surprising how often we meet clients who are planning to start businesses in industries in which they...
Whether you’re looking for a way to work from home or setting up a company with separate premises, here’s where you might find inspiration and business opportunities. Twenty years ago, most people wouldn’t have imagined starting a business to make money online through apps, virtual services or online products. Technology is always changing the...
The recent three day lockdown of Perth and Peel over the Anzac weekend was another hurdle for small businesses to jump in a marathon year. I want to take a moment to once again recognise the significant part you are playing in supporting the long term recovery of our WA economy by complying with the lockdown closure orders and the ongoing...
The switch from employee to boss isn’t always an easy – and neither is working with your spouse. Here are some insights shared by business owners Molly and Jordan Kirk, who co-own a commercial refrigeration and air conditioning business in Perth. Molly and her husband Jordan worked for a refrigeration company and later bought out the business under...
We’ve all been there at some point, unhappy at work and looking for a career change, or just wanting to make a go of it on your own. Starting a new business is a big deal. To help you decide if your business idea could work, we’ve put together some thought starters to get your head (and idea) in the right space. Is there a demand? If you think your...
The International Day of People with Disability (3 December 2023) is a United Nations observance celebrated throughout the world each year. The day aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability and celebrate their achievements and contributions. One in five Western Australians, or more than 411,500 people...
Thinking about using your know-how to start your own consulting business? Here are some important things to consider to help you make a business from your expertise.
Your business could benefit from using a range of digital tools and apps to help manage your finances, keep accurate records, sell online, oversee social media accounts, improve productivity, engage your employees and customers, and more. Whether you want to boost your sales, streamline your processes or stop spending so much time updating...
Taking some small actions can often help ease a larger burden when it comes to managing your wellbeing.