Small Biz Survival: Alarming Cost of Doing Business Down Under

5

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.

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.

Published:Saturday, 17th Aug 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

BIA Advocates for Government Support Amidst Marine Industry Skills Shortage

18 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) has recently called upon all levels of Australian government to provide strategic support to the nation's marine manufacturing and recreational boating sector. This appeal comes in response to a significant skills shortage that poses a threat to the industry's economic potential. - read more

Australian Boating Industry Poised for $20 Billion Expenditure by 2030

18 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Boating Industry Association (BIA) has released the National Recreational Boating Statement, providing a comprehensive overview of the sector's scale, value, and future projections. The statement forecasts that by 2030, Australians will spend $20 billion annually on boating activities, underscoring the industry's significant economic and social impact. - read more

Ian Thorpe Embarks on New Challenge in Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race

10 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian Olympic swimming legend Ian Thorpe is set to make waves in a new arena by joining the crew of the supermaxi yacht LawConnect for the upcoming Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race. This marks a significant transition for Thorpe, who has previously dominated the swimming world with five Olympic gold medals. - read more

BIA's 'Discover Boating' Initiative Encourages Australians to Embrace the Water

10 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) has unveiled its annual 'See You Out There' campaign, a key component of the 'Discover Boating' initiative aimed at inviting Australians to experience the joys and benefits of boating. Launching on November 1, this campaign seeks to highlight the freedom, connection, and well-being that come from spending time on the water. - read more

Sydney International On-Water Boat Show 2025: A Resounding Success

10 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The 56th Sydney International On-Water Boat Show has successfully concluded after four dynamic days at Darling Harbour, reaffirming its status as a premier event in Australia's marine industry. Presented by the Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) in partnership with Mulpha Events, the show attracted over 20,000 visitors, offering a comprehensive showcase of the boating lifestyle. - read more

Celebrating the Success of the 2025 Sydney International On-Water Boat Show

02 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The 56th Sydney International On-Water Boat Show, held from 13 to 16 November 2025 at Darling Harbour, has concluded with remarkable success. This year's event attracted over 20,000 visitors, underscoring the enduring appeal of Australia's marine lifestyle and industry. - read more

Click for more Finance News