A BUREAU established by the NSW government to support the more than 840,000 businesses cut through red tapes in the wake of current economic challenges has been met with enthusiasm by the sector.
NSW Business chief executive Daniel Hunter said businesses are expected to get better access to grants, export opportunities and government tenders under the Service NSW Business Bureau.
The new service allows prospective or current business owners to access practical information on how to start and grow their enterprise.
With businesses facing inflation troubles, interest rate rises and a skills crunch, Mr Hunter said, they welcomed the state government’s investment in the business sector.
It will also make it easier for businesses to connect with support, such as tracking licenses, getting expert advice, viewing payments and transactions reports.
The peak organisation Mr Hunter leads represents tens of thousands of businesses of varying sizes across the state.
“Members across the state say dealing with paperwork is often the most time consuming, unproductive and difficult part of running a business,” Mr Hunter said.
“We see the Service NSW Business Bureau as a way to streamline paperwork and ultimately let mum and dad business owners get on with what they do best, growing their business.
“We welcome the government’s approach to navigating red tape and its commitment to reduce it. It’s everyone’s business to ensure small businesses can go big.”
Mr Hunter said post-pandemic challenges for business “remain very real”.
“The inflation rate increased from 4.9 per cent in July to 5.6 per cent in September 2023, according to ABS monthly Consumer Price Index figures [recently] released.
“Housing costs went up 2.2 per cent quarter on quarter. This was the second highest inflation category behind transport, including petrol and diesel, which increased 3.2 per cent.
“Providing business support for both winning government tenders and exporting will play a key role in growing small businesses, especially those struggling with cost of doing business issues.
“What’s good for business is good for NSW. We look forward to working with the government to ensure the bureau’s services match the many needs of NSW businesses.”
Service NSW said the bureau is a free and personalised support available to all businesses, with digital tools to help them navigate government programs assisting them grow their business.
At least 98 percent of the more than 840,000 businesses in NSW are classified small businesses, employing 1.8 million workers, or 45 percent of the state’s workforce.
More details on Service NSW Business Bureau on https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/business.
