Running a small business involves juggling multiple responsibilities. To help lighten the load, the Australian Government offers a range of free and low-cost services tailored to small business needs. These tools can support you in managing staff, improving operations, staying compliant and building resilience.
Here are 10 resources worth exploring:
1. Fair Work Ombudsman’s Small Business Showcase
This hub offers practical tools and guidance to help you meet your employer obligations. It covers:
• Hiring, paying and managing staff
• Record-keeping requirements
• Leave entitlements and requests
• Ending employment
• A helpful small business checklist
Visit the Small Business Showcase to get started.
2. ACCC’s Small Business Toolkit
Understand your rights and obligations when dealing with customers, suppliers and competitors. This toolkit covers key topics including fair trading and consumer laws.
Explore the Small Business Toolkit.
3. Workforce Australia
This service connects you with tools to help:
• Advertise job vacancies
• Find providers who can help with recruitment
• Access financial assistance for hiring
• Train or trial a staff member
Learn more about Workforce Australia.
4. Small Business Cyber Resilience Service
Delivered by IDCARE, this free program offers one-on-one support to help small businesses strengthen cyber security and recover from cyber incidents.
Find out more at IDCARE’s Cyber Resilience Service.
5. Digital Solutions Program
Access individual digital advice from qualified business advisers, plus free webinars, workshops and self-guided learning to help your business thrive in the digital economy.
More information is available through the Digital Solutions Program.
6. ATO Essentials to Strengthen Your Small Business
The ATO offers an online learning platform with over 30 free short courses to support every stage of your business. Topics include:
• Cash flow and record keeping
• Deductions and GST
• Superannuation and tax
Explore the ATO Essentials platform.
7. NewAccess for Small Business Owners
A free and confidential mental health coaching program from Beyond Blue. Over six sessions, a coach with a small business background will help you manage stress and develop practical coping strategies.
Find out more at NewAccess for Small Business Owners.
8. IP Australia’s IP First Response
If you believe your intellectual property has been copied or misused, this service helps you understand your rights and the next steps to protect your assets.
Learn more about IP First Response.
9. Cyber Security Guide and Checklist
The Australian Cyber Security Centre offers a cyber security guide and checklist to help small businesses improve their defences against digital threats.
Access the Cyber Security Guide.
10. Dispute Support
An online tool to help you resolve small business disputes. It points you to the most appropriate resolution services based on your situation.
Visit Dispute Support for more information.
Need help applying these tools to your business?
MEA members can speak with our expert Workplace Relations and Technical Services teams for tailored support. If you have questions about any of these services, get in touch with us today.
