This week marks the start of a new financial year, which is often a time for small business owners to take a breath after the frantic end of tax year rush, and make plans for the time ahead. For the past four days, around three quarters of our WA small businesses as well as their customers, have found themselves in lockdown. The emergence of the...
If you’re a business owner, it’s important to understand your obligations to provide a safe and healthy workplace. This includes keeping up with changes to health and safety legislation. The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety has introduced new Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws for Western Australia. Here are seven things to know...
Did you know that your average Australian small business signs eight standard form contracts per year? This is why it’s so important to know your rights when entering into a standard form contract, or providing a contract to others. While protection for consumers entering into a standard form contract has existed for many years, in 2016 similar...
Being authentic and true to oneself has been Michelle Rimmer’s mantra since the launch of her business, Hills Massage, 20 years ago. Reflecting on her business journey, Michelle said she would tell the younger version of herself that consistency is the key to success. “You have to be consistent in the quality of your or product, your communication...
When opening and evolving their landscaping supply business in Albany, owners Jane and Ian sought guidance from advisers at the Albany Business Centre, the SBDC’s Business Local provider in the Great Southern. Designer Dirt in Albany is more than your average landscaping supply centre. Opened in 2012, the business could be seen as an extension of...
It’s easier than ever for you to access free business advice and support from our team of local business advisers, with the launch of online advisory appointment bookings on our website. One of the most important services we provide at the SBDC is our free business advisory service. Any current or aspiring small business owner in Western Australia...
Not sure where to start when it comes to promoting your business on social media? Social media can seem overwhelming, but fortunately there are a few basic principles that can help guide you through the ‘getting started’ stages. The golden rule of social media is to engage with your target market on their preferred platform, using relevant and...
If your small business employs workers, including contractors or sub-contractors, it’s compulsory for you to have workers’ compensation insurance. Here’s what you need to know to protect your business from hefty fines or other serious consequences. No matter how careful you are, work-related injuries and illnesses can happen. If your business...
Carrying out a couple of quick checks online can help you avoid falling prey to fraudulent sellers and suppliers targeting small business owners. When looking to purchase products or services for your business, finding a great deal can often be the deciding factor in choosing to buy from. Unfortunately in many cases, a deal that appears to be ‘too...
There is a range of support available to help small businesses affected by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie and Tropical Cyclone Ilsa in the emergency regions. The emergency regions include the following local government areas: Ex-TC Ellie Shire of Broome Shire of Wyndham-East Kimberley Shire of Halls Creek Shire of Derby-West Kimberley TC Ilsa Shire of...
Have the recent (and significant) changes to Facebook and Snapchat left you wondering ‘what now’ for your 2018 digital marketing plan? Instead of focusing on the negatives, like how your Facebook business page has declined in reach, or how much you dislike the new Snapchat, use this opportunity to take stock of your online efforts, identify areas...
Here is a run-down of the key changes taking effect from 1 July 2023 that are likely to have an impact on small business owners in Western Australia. New minimum wages The minimum wages for both the federal and state industrial relations systems will increase from the first pay on or after 1 July 2023. National minimum wage increase If your...