Almost $11 million in funding will be invested from January this year as the Albanese Labor Government delivers on its commitment to ease the pressure for small businesses.
From 1 January, new funding of $10.8 million over eighteen months for the Small Business Debt Helpline and the NewAccess for Small Business Owners programs will commence.
These government funded programs are run by experts who understand how small businesses work.
The NewAccess for Small Business Owners program is a free, confidential one‑on‑one mental health coaching program delivered by Beyond Blue.
The program provides small business owners with up to six structured sessions via phone or video with a trained mental health coach.
Coaches have a small business background, allowing them to better understand the unique challenges small business owners may face. No GP referral or mental health treatment plan is required.
The Small Business Debt Helpline is a dedicated small business financial counselling service delivered by Financial Counselling Australia.
It provides free, independent and confidential phone‑based support to small business owners nationally regardless of the cause of their financial hardship.
More information about the NewAccess for Small Business Owners program is available by calling 1300 945 301 or via the Beyond Blue website.
Small business owners can contact the Small Business Debt Helpline by calling 1800 413 828 or via the Small Business Debt Helpline website.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business, Julie Collins MP
“Small businesses are the engine room of Australia’s economy, and employ millions of employees. It’s important they have the support they need, when they need it.
“Small business owners and operators are resilient, but we also know some small businesses are doing it tough right now. That’s why this support is so important.
“This is part of our more than $640 million in practical and targeted support for small businesses, outlined in our Small Business Statement.”