Small Biz Survival: Alarming Cost of Doing Business Down Under
Small Biz Survival: Alarming Cost of Doing Business Down Under
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
In a striking revelation, nearly 1.25 million small businesses in Australia teeter on the brink of collapse as increasing living costs gnaw away their profit margins.
During a recent senate hearing on Australia's cost-of-living crisis, Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) director, Adele Sutton, spotlighted the precarious state of the nation’s small enterprises.
Addressing the hearing, chaired by Liberal senator Jane Hume, Ms. Sutton noted that 49 per cent of 2.5 million small businesses are either barely breaking even or running at a loss. She emphasized that when a business fails to break even, the burden primarily shifts onto the owner, often compelling them to dip into personal savings to keep operations afloat. The hearing included notable participants like Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association CEO Wes Lambert and Restaurant and Catering Australia CEO Suresh Manickam.
Sutton attributed this worrisome trend to an unpredictable mix of rising energy costs, burdensome regulatory frameworks, and intricate changes in industrial relations. Remarkably, she highlighted that wage growth has not proportionality matched productivity, fanning the flames of economic strain.
Offering further insights into the cost-of-living turmoil, Suresh Manickam pointed out that the crisis is predominantly driven by four elements: escalating energy prices, heightened interest rates, surging labor costs, and sluggish productivity. Manickam lamented that cafe and restaurant owners are particularly besieged by the government’s convoluted changes in industrial relations laws, resulting in what he described as "IR fatigue."
"These modifications are causing a fundamental and progressively adverse impact," Manickam conveyed, stressing the critical need for energy stability and government intervention to ensure an enduring, sustainable energy infrastructure. While business owners appreciated the government’s recent energy rebate, Manickam insisted that it provided minimal relief. "It’s not even a sugar hit," he remarked, suggesting that more substantial measures are necessary to alleviate the financial pressure on small businesses.
This transformative discussion was originally reported by NewsWire, where the pressing challenges confronting Australia's small business sector were brought to fore, demanding urgent attention and solutions.
Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.
Riviera, Australia's esteemed luxury motor yacht manufacturer, is set to make a grand statement at the upcoming 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. The company will present an impressive fleet of 12 yachts, collectively valued at over $40 million, underscoring its commitment to excellence and innovation in the marine industry. - read more
The Australian Superyacht, Marine Export, and Commercial Marine Conference (ASMEX) is set to return to the Gold Coast on May 19-20, 2026, bringing together professionals from across the marine sector for two days of insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and industry celebrations. - read more
Aquila Catamarans is set to make a significant impact at the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, presenting its largest Australian display to date. The showcase will feature seven models, including three highly anticipated debuts, underscoring Aquila's commitment to innovation and excellence in the marine industry. - read more
Austal Limited has been awarded a contract extension valued at approximately A$150.3 million to construct two additional Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats (ECCPBs) for the Australian Border Force (ABF). This brings the total number of ECCPBs contracted for delivery to the ABF to six, underscoring the ongoing commitment to bolstering Australia's maritime security capabilities. - read more
Incat's Hull 096, the world's largest battery-electric ferry, has commenced sea trials on the River Derwent in Hobart. This 130-metre vessel, capable of carrying 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles, represents a significant advancement in sustainable marine transportation. - read more
Construction has commenced on Pier 25 at The Boat Works on the Gold Coast, marking a significant expansion of one of Australia's largest marine maintenance and refit facilities. This architect-designed, multi-storey development will house marine showrooms, office suites, and crew accommodation upon its completion in late 2026. - read more
Boating offers a unique escape and a chance to explore Australia's stunning waterways. For many, owning a boat is a dream come true, providing endless adventures and cherished memories with family and friends. - read more
A boat loan can be defined as a type of financing tailored specifically to help buyers acquire a boat. It serves a crucial role in making the dream of boat ownership more attainable, as it enables you to spread the payment over a period of time rather than shelling out a substantial sum upfront. - read more
Have you ever imagined yourself steering through the sapphire waters, the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, aboard your very own boat? The dream of owning a boat is a passionate pursuit for many. Yet, before this vision becomes a reality, there is a significant financial journey ahead that requires careful navigation and thoughtful planning. - read more
Buying a boat is a considerable investment and should be approached with care and attention to detail. It's a big decision because it requires not only a significant financial commitment but also a commitment to the upkeep and maintenance of the vessel. It's essential to consider your needs and intended use, as well as factors like size, type, and condition when making your decision. - read more
If you're in the market for buying a boat, then it's crucial to familiarize yourself with preapproved boat finance. Unlike typical boat loans where you apply for financing after you've decided on a boat, preapproval allows you to secure finance before you start shopping. This gives you peace of mind and greater control over the buying process, ensuring no surprises or delays arise along the way. - read more
When you're embarking on the adventure of buying your first boat, understanding interest rates becomes crucial. But what are interest rates exactly? In the context of loans, they represent the cost of borrowing money, expressed as a percentage of the loan amount. Essentially, it’s the price you pay for the financing that makes your dream of boat ownership a reality. - read more
Start Here
Quotes are offered free & without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Balloon Payment: A large payment due at the end of a balloon loan, usually after a series of smaller payments.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.