Running a small business is no small feat. Every purchase, every invoice, and every supplier relationship counts. But as your business grows, so does the complexity of managing procurement. This is where a purchase order (PO) system can help. Not sure if you need one? Let’s look at the benefits of using a purchase order system and help you decide if it’s the right fit for your business. What is…  Read more

Buying a business is an exciting step that can lead to financial independence and personal fulfilment. Therefore, when buying a business, you want to make sure you know exactly what you are going into. This means understanding the commercial viability of the business you are going to purchase so that you can make a well-reasoned decision as to whether or not you will buy it. Consequently, you must understand the…  Read more

Running a business comes with countless moving parts. From managing projects and keeping the team on the same page to ensuring profitability, it can feel overwhelming. That’s where a job management system comes in—a single tool that can help streamline your operations, reduce errors, and boost overall efficiency. But how do you know if a job management system is right for you? And if it is, how do you select…  Read more

Workplace policies provide a framework for employers and employees to understand their rights, responsibilities, expectations and standards of behaviour at work. Policies help to create a safe, fair, and inclusive working environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Critically, they provide clear guidelines for employers and employees on how to handle different situations that may arise in the workplace. By having clear and enforceable policies in place, businesses…  Read more

Finding the right premises for your business can be a stressful process. However, once you have found the perfect premises, there are still numerous matters to think about. This article will explore what you need to consider as a tenant before entering into a commercial lease, including: whether the premises are suitable for your business; the costs of entering into the lease; and key clauses to include in the lease.…  Read more

Are you an entrepreneur wondering how to fund your next big idea? Or maybe you’re an investor curious about tapping into the world of innovative startups? Crowdfunding could be the solution you’re looking for. Crowdfunding isn’t just about raising money—it’s about building a community, validating your ideas, and creating exciting opportunities. But how does it work, and how can you make it work for you? Stick around as we break…  Read more

A trade mark is a vital tool in protecting your business and building your brand. It can bring value to your business, protect your products from competitors and help create a brand that customers are loyal to. In this article, we will explain what a trade mark is, and the basics of trade mark registration. What is a Trade Mark? A trade mark is a sign that you use to…  Read more

Think back to when you started your business. What drove you? Maybe it was the dream of freedom, the excitement of being your own boss, or the simple fact that you loved what you did. Fast forward to now—are you thriving and in control, or are you stuck juggling a million things, feeling like you’re working harder than ever with little to show for it? That’s the exact scenario Michael…  Read more

How to master employer obligations in 2025 Taxpayers who employ staff should remember the following important dates and obligations: Fringe benefits tax (‘FBT’) 31 March 2025 marks the end of the 2024/25 FBT year.  Employers should remember the following regarding their FBT tax time obligations.  They should identify if they have provided a fringe benefit.  If they have, they should determine the taxable value to work out if they have…  Read more

Selling a business isn’t just about signing on the dotted line and handing over the keys. For small business owners, it’s more than just a transaction—it’s often the culmination of years of hard work, growth, and dedication. Whether you’re passing the baton to focus on new opportunities or preparing for retirement, negotiating the sale of your business will determine whether you walk away satisfied—or leave money on the table. The…  Read more

When you’re running a business, every day feels like a balancing act. Emails, meetings, planning strategies—it’s overwhelming. But what if the secret to long-term success wasn’t massive overhauls or inspiring “aha” moments? What if it was small, consistent changes that compound over time? That’s the premise of James Clear’s bestseller Atomic Habits, and it’s a game-changer for modern business owners. Here’s how some of the book’s most powerful lessons can…  Read more

is crucial for small business owners. Even if your business is profitable, poor cash flow management can create significant challenges. In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help you avoid a cash flow crisis and ensure your business remains financially healthy. Understanding cash flow Cash flow refers to the money moving in and out of your business. Cash inflows come from sales, interest earned, and investments. Cash outflows cover…  Read more

If you’re a small business owner or a startup founder, you’ve probably heard about Cost of Goods Sold (COGS). But what does it really mean, and why is it crucial for your business’s success? Understanding COGS isn’t just about accounting—it’s about making smart decisions for profitability, pricing, and more.  This blog walks you through everything you need to know about COGS, from defining the term to showing you how to…  Read more

If your company is experiencing rapid growth, you might find yourself navigating a good news/bad news situation: while your sales figures climb, managing cash flow becomes increasingly complex, pushing you to seek additional financing to meet the rising demand. Consider this scenario: A well-known retailer expresses interest in your products, presenting an exciting opportunity that could significantly elevate your business. However, they have a requirement: they want a substantial discount…  Read more

When it comes to valuing a business, most people’s first thought is straightforward—profits. While financial success is undoubtedly a critical aspect, it’s far from the only factor determining a business’s true worth. For small business owners and entrepreneurs, understanding the complexities of valuation can offer a clear roadmap for sustainable growth and long-term success. Here is a fresh perspective on what makes a business truly valuable. We’ll discuss traditional valuation…  Read more

Ever wondered how companies price custom projects accurately? The secret can be found in a method called job order costing. For small business owners and entrepreneurs, understanding this process could be the key to increasing your profitability and ensuring that every job is priced just right. Welcome to a world where every material, man-hour, and overhead cost is meticulously tracked to unveil the true cost of doing business. Let’s explore…  Read more

Social media can feel overwhelming. With so much noise and so many platforms, where do you start? The truth is, a great social media strategy can transform how you connect with customers and help to grow your business. The reach and accessibility of social media platforms are unprecedented. They connect businesses with a vast audience, in real-time. Besides their broad reach, social media platforms also serve as a valuable tool…  Read more

We are currently witnessing a remarkable transformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. While these advancements promise to enhance efficiency and speed, business owners must recognise the enduring importance of soft skills in their teams for long-term success and competitiveness. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report highlights the disruption of skills we will see in the coming years, pinpointing critical competencies for future success: Analytical thinking Creative…  Read more

Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. Chalmers skirts budget deficit question Jim Chalmers declined to directly answer whether a total of forecasted $122.1bn in deficits will increase in the mid-year budget update set to be released on Wednesday. Appearing on Sky on Sunday, the Treasurer declined to directly answer whether the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal…  Read more

Welcome to our Weekly Digest – stay in the know with some recent news updates relevant to business and the economy. Australia’s economy growing at slowest pace in decades, propped up by government spending Household spending did not pick up in the September quarter in the way economists were hoping. Australia’s economy recorded its weakest annual growth rate in decades in the September quarter, outside of the pandemic. Private demand…  Read more

Can staff celebrations attract FBT? With the holiday season coming up, employers may be planning to celebrate with their employees. Before they hire a restaurant or book an event, employers should make sure to work out if the benefits they provide their employees are considered entertainment-related, and therefore subject to fringe benefits tax (‘FBT’).  This will depend on: the amount they spend on each employee; when and where the celebration…  Read more