The Albanese Labor Government is backing Australia’s record high 2.66 million small businesses to run, grow and succeed.
Employing 5.2 million people, Australia’s small businesses contribute almost $600 billion to our nation’s economy every year.
New ASIC data shows there were over 90,000 new company registrations in the first quarter of 2026, with increases in almost every state and territory compared with the same period last year.
In January 2026, there were 24,653 new company registrations nationally, up from 20,475 in January 2025. In February 2026, registrations rose to 31,325, up from 26,971 in February 2025, and in March 2026 there were 34,481 registrations, up from 29,465 last year.
The increase is a positive sign of confidence in Australia’s economy and reinforces the critical role small businesses play in creating jobs, driving innovation and strengthening communities.
Earlier this month the Albanese Labor Government announced a comprehensive and coordinated support package to help ease the pressure on small businesses, by making systems more flexible and supply chains more responsive.
This package builds on the wide range of measures the Albanese Government already has in place to ease pressure on small business, including the extended Instant Asset Write Off, further tax cuts benefiting 1.5 million sole traders, and $5,000 apprentice incentives in priority sectors.
Quotes attributed to the Minister for Small Business, Dr Anne Aly
“These recent figures are an encouraging sign that confidence in Australia’s small business sector remains strong, with more Australians taking the step to start a business and invest in their future.
“Small businesses are at the heart of communities across the country. They create jobs, support local economies and help drive the innovation and resilience Australia needs to grow.
“The Albanese Labor Government is investing in our small businesses and providing them with the supports they need right now.”