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Justice. The word itself carries weight. It has responsibility. It implies things will be fair and if wronged, justice will serve and things will be right.

But for many small businesses, access to justice remains out of reach. For small businesses facing harm or difficulty remedying a situation that impedes their economic interests and legal rights, there are still too many barriers in accessing justice.

Franchising, when done well, can bring small business success

Originally published in The Canberra Times.

By Bruce Billson

Franchising, when done well, is one of the most dynamic and scalable models of entrepreneurship available to small business owners. It offers a unique blend of independence and support, allowing franchisees to leverage proven systems, established brand awareness and customer loyalty while contributing their own energy, capital, and local market insights.

Big business may take this for granted, but it's still out of reach for many small business owners

Originally published in The Canberra Times

By Bruce Billson

Justice. The word itself carries weight. It has responsibility. It implies things will be fair, and if wronged, justice will serve, and things will be right.

But for many small businesses, access to justice remains out of reach.

Recognising the vital contribution family businesses make to our community and economy

Published in Convenience World's October 2025 edition.

By Bruce Billson

Some of Australia’s most prominent and successful businesses are family businesses. They are also some of the most enduring, over generations, building a legacy in name and value to the Australian community. And for some of Australia’s largest businesses that once started out as a family business, their business success is also part of Australia’s economic fabric.

Awareness is not enough, and a fatalistic attitude to risks will only make things worse

Originally published in The Canberra Times

By Bruce Billson

Welcome to Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time to remind ourselves of the steps we can take to prevent an unwelcome cyber event that can be highly damaging to small and family-owned businesses.

The many activities over October remind us that we are not on our own in tackling the scourge and threat posed by cyber criminals.

Help is available, and there are simple and important steps we need to take ourselves to maximise protection.