Media releases

2014

Access to the Commonwealth made easier for small business

The Federal Government has allocated $8 million to establish the Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, delivering on its election commitment to establish a one-stop-shop for small busines

Small business to get the same protections as consumers

Small businesses will get the same protections as consumers when it comes to unfair contracts imposed by big business.

Government looks to make life easier for small business

In keeping with its election commitment, the Federal Government has taken the first step in delivering a Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman with real power.

Submissions on changes to improve franchise code close soon

Those with an interest in the franchise sector are reminded submissions on proposed changes to improve the Franchising Code of Conduct will close this week.

All eyes on industry with visit from Minister Macfarlane

Local manufacturing and small businesses will today have the attention of two Cabinet Ministers with Minister for Industry, Ian Macfarlane, joining Minister for Small Business, Bruce Billson, visit

Updated guide released to help businesses sell and promote products and services

Businesses and consumers are set to benefit from a comprehensive advertising and selling guide released today by the ACCC.

Government welcomes Competition Policy Review Issues Paper

The Federal Government has today welcomed the Issues Paper for the Competition Policy Review.

New guide released to help businesses comply with country of origin claims

A new and improved guide has been released by the ACCC to help businesses comply with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) regarding country of origin labels and claims.

Billson opens Australia Week in China

The Guangzhou programme for Australia Week in China (AWIC) has kicked off with the Government reaffirming its commitment to forge closer ties with China.

Consumers to benefit from lower energy prices when carbon tax repealed

Energy companies will be able to lower prices without delay once the carbon tax is repealed – delivering significant savings for Australian households and business.

Government seeks to strengthen franchising sector

The Federal Government will seek to make changes to improve the viability of the franchise sector by the end of the year and save it $8.6 million in red-tape.

Superannuation made simpler for small business

Another piece of red-tape has been cut for small business, with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) taking over responsibility for the Small Business Superannuation Clearing House today.

Government improves safety standard to protect kids

The Federal Government has moved to protect children from possible strangulation from corded blinds by strengthening standards for commercial installers.

Working to remove barriers to help small businesses grow

The Government has asked the Board of Taxation to conduct a review to identify features in the tax system that are hindering or preventing small businesses from reaching their commercial goals.

Government names competition review panel

Today I am announcing the final terms of reference for the Government’s ‘root and branch’ review of competition law and the appointment of three members and a chair to serve on the review panel.

Opposition should support $48m red-tape reduction for business and not-for-profit sector

If Labor was genuine in its words about removing barriers for business then it should support the abolition of the ‘pay-clerk’ burden from the paid parental leave scheme which would save businesses

Government to stay nimble in protecting consumers in the digital age

Small Business Minister Bruce Billson has used a speech to the ACCC's Consumer Congress to highlight the need for business, policy makers and regulators to be flexible and responsive to emerging is

New assistance available for small businesses in the Morwell area

Eligible small businesses in Morwell, indirectly affected by a loss of income as a result of the Hazelwood Mine Fire, will be able to apply for new $100,000 concessional loans under the jointly-fun

International Women’s Day

On the eve of International Women's Day, the Federal Government is recognising women who have played a significant role in building Australia's economy and encourage more to enter the small busines

$50m boost to help small businesses export

The Abbott Government has moved to boost the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme by $50 million to help small and medium sized businesses reach their export potential.