Demystifying Inflation

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Inflation – it’s a word that’s been on everyone’s lips recently. Rates are on the rise, and our small business community is feeling it the most. Increased supply costs, a lack of workforce, and dwindling profits are among the challenges faced.  Let’s demystify inflation and delve into its impact on small businesses. Grasping Inflation In essence, inflation is the uptick in the cost of goods and services. Whether it’s a…  Read more

Business Update – 24 January 2024

Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. NAB CEO’s 2024 economic outlook NAB CEO Ross McEwan says Australia is well-placed to recover in 2024 as Australians respond quickly to sharp cost of living increases. Blockchain start-up backed by major banks collapses into liquidation owing $14 million An Australian blockchain start-up lauded as the future of banking…  Read more

Business Update – 17 January 2024

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Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. High chance’ of RBA achieving its goals in 2024: CBA Commonwealth Bank of Australia chief economist Stephen Halmarick has predicted that the central bank’s desired outcomes from increasing interest rates are likely to come to fruition this year. Australian capital city rents up 13% over year as further hikes…  Read more

The leap of hiring your first employee

When starting a business, you often wear all the hats – CEO, salesperson, marketer, and even janitor. But as your business grows, you’ll eventually hit a wall. There’s only so much you can do on your own. That’s when you might need to consider hiring your first employee. Hiring someone brings many benefits. It can double your workforce, free up your time to focus on the business, and introduce new…  Read more

What happens in a data breach and what you can do about it

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You might have a mental image of data breaches happening only at big institutions like banks, password managers, or even government agencies. But the truth is, any website that stores personal information can be vulnerable to a breach. Now, not all breaches are created equal, and the impact on individuals and businesses can vary greatly. But hey, don’t panic just yet! We’re here to lend a helping hand and shed…  Read more

Business Update – 10 January 2024

Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. Australia-India trade deal a win for exporters In December, Tim Ayres, Australia’s assistant trade minister, visited India to evaluate the advancements in the pact. The Economic Cooperation Trade Agreement, signed in April 2022 and effective from December 29, 2022, has already demonstrated positive outcomes. Australian economy predictions 2024: Grim…  Read more

The benefits of outsourcing for small businesses

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For small businesses in today’s competitive market, outsourcing can offer a range of advantages. Not only does it reduce costs and free up valuable time for owners to focus on growing their business, but it also provides access to skills and expertise that may be unavailable in-house. By working with external professionals or firms who work in certain areas, small businesses have the opportunity to streamline operations, increase productivity and…  Read more

Business Update – 20 December 2023

Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. House price growth ‘way better than expected’ as further rises expected in 2024 REA Group Economic Research Director Cameron Kusher says the growth in house prices has been “way better than expected” as it was predicted last year’s price falls would continue. According to NAB forecasts: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane…  Read more

Managing work-life balance as a small business owner

  As a small business owner, it can be incredibly difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The obligations and responsibilities of running your own business often take priority over any personal pursuits, no matter how important they may be for your overall well being. But, with the right strategies and mindset in place, it is possible to strike an effective balance between working hard on your business and making…  Read more

Make life easier with AI

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AI (Artificial intelligence) has been both a huge disrupter and enabler for businesses of all shapes and sizes. (AI) is no longer just a pipe dream of science-fiction. It has become a vital aspect of today’s world and has meant businesses or employees can and are becoming more productive by leveraging the many AI tools for business activities.  In the past, the application of AI was limited to big corporations…  Read more

Business Update – 13 December 2023

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Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. Australia’s GDP is going backwards We have now had three consecutive quarters of falling GDP on a per capita basis. That last happened 40 years ago during the 1982-83 recession. That is not good. And it doesn’t get any better when you break down what drove what little growth there…  Read more

Christmas Parties & Gifts 2023

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Year-end (and other) staff parties With the well earned December/January holiday season on the way, many employers will be planning to reward staff with a celebratory party or event.  However, there are important issues to consider, including  the possible FBT and income tax implications of providing ‘entertainment’ (including Christmas parties) to staff and clients.  FBT and ‘entertainment’ Under the FBT Act, employers must choose how they calculate their FBT meal…  Read more

Business Update – 06 December 2023

Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. Jim Chalmers welcomes OECD prediction RBA has reached interest rate peak The treasurer, Jim Chalmers, has welcomed a projection by the OECD that the Reserve Bank has probably reached its interest rate peak but played down the prospect of the government posting a second successive budget surplus. $392 million Industry Growth…  Read more

Practice Update – December 2023

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ATO’s lodgment penalty amnesty is about to end The ATO is remitting failure to lodge penalties for eligible small businesses.  Businesses which have not yet taken advantage of the ATO’s lodgment penalty amnesty only have until 31 December 2023 to do so. Businesses must meet the following criteria in order to be eligible for the amnesty:        had an annual turnover under $10 million when the original lodgment…  Read more

Why online reviews matter

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In today’s digital age, online reviews can make or break a small business. With the ease of access to social media and review websites, customers can easily voice their opinions and experiences with your business online. As a small business owner, it’s essential to understand the importance of online reviews as they will impact your brand image, sales, and customer loyalty. Boost your brand image Online reviews are the first…  Read more

Business Update – 29 November 2023

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Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. Australia’s unfair contract terms rules have changed: Here’s what you need to know Unfair contract terms in standard form consumer or small business contracts are now illegal after after new laws took effect on 9 November 2023.  Businesses are encouraged to review their standard form contracts and remove or…  Read more

Effective strategies for boosting your startup’s cash flow

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In the unpredictable world of startups, maintaining a cash surplus can be a lifesaver. It provides a safety net in case sales don’t meet expectations or unexpected expenses arise. Aside from providing security, surplus cash also paves the way for expansion opportunities, handling large bills, or purchasing essential equipment. While injecting personal capital or taking out a loan can aid in creating a cash surplus, let’s explore some other effective…  Read more

Tips for building an engaging website for your small business

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As a small business owner, you probably know it’s important to have an engaging website that reflects the image of your company and attracts customers. A great website can give you an edge over your competition and help you grow your business. But with so many websites out there, how do you ensure yours stands out? Here are some tips for building an engaging website that will draw in customers…  Read more

How to unlock cash within your business

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As a business owner, have you ever been caught short of cash? What if I told you that the solution to your cash flow woes might be hiding in plain sight? Yes, you heard it right. Your business may already possess the funds you need, locked up in assets, stock, or your debtors. In this post, we’ll break down three areas you can check to free up funds within your…  Read more

Business Update – 22 November 2023

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Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. How much Aussies plan to spend on Christmas presents this year Australians are set to spend more on Christmas presents this year despite high inflation, interest rate hikes and cost of living pressures on households. The Christmas Retail Trends Report, conducted by Monash Business School’s Australian Consumer and Retail Studies,…  Read more

Business Update – 15 November 2023

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Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. Are you providing entertainment this holiday season? Before you hire a restaurant or book an event, make sure you work out if the benefits you provide your employees are considered entertainment related, and therefore subject to fringe benefits tax (FBT). Income outlook warning for Aussie households Australians will not…  Read more