The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson says the significant reforms to the Franchising Code of Conduct announced by the Australian Government today will help level the playing field across the franchising sector.

Mr Billson says the reforms to the Code, which come into effect from 1 July 2021, will go a long way to addressing the power imbalances that often exist between franchisees and franchisors, particularly when disputes arise.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson has today launched a Review of the Discretionary Mutual Fund proposed for small businesses in the amusement, leisure and recreation sector unable to secure essential insurance coverage.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson says his office will closely monitor Woolworths’ planned acquisition of a controlling stake in PFD Food services (PFD), in regards to the impact it has on small businesses in the sector.

Following the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) decision not to oppose Woolworths’ acquisition of 65% of shares in PFD, Mr Billson says small businesses in the food distribution space are understandably concerned.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson has welcomed a new online tool for small business owners, designed to take the stress out of hiring their first employee.

The Employment Contract Tool – recently launched by the Australian Government – guides small business owners through a series of questions to generate an employment contract based on the specific terms and conditions of the relevant award.

A national awareness campaign about a free tailored mental health support service for small business owners has begun, amid new research revealing the emotional toll on small business owners during the past year.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson is encouraging Australians to celebrate and support family businesses on National Family Business Day.

Speaking in a video marking the day, Mr Billson says family businesses need to be celebrated for the important role they play in our communities.

“Today is a day to acknowledge the extraordinary contribution family businesses make to our nation and communities,” Mr Billson says.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson today welcomed the announcement by the Commonwealth Bank that it will automatically lower costs incurred by small businesses and family enterprises with a turnover of less than $250,000.  

The Ombudsman has repeatedly called on banks and other financial institutions to adopt what is known as least cost routing to slash the high and hidden costs associated with electronic card payments for small operators and family enterprises.

Businesses with Commonwealth government contracts will have to pay their small business sub-contractors within 20 days or risk fines and penalties under new laws starting today, says the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson.

“Fair payment times are incredibly important for the viability of small businesses, and I welcome the beginning of this significant policy,” Mr Billson said. 

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, has strongly backed a call from the Inspector-General of Taxation for the Australian Taxation Office to more consistently and transparently inform taxpayers of their right to review, complain, and appeal decisions.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, has extended the deadline for a survey of women who own and lead businesses.

“There has been a tremendous response so far - it is clear there is an appetite to engage, and we want to give more women business owners and leaders the chance to be heard,” Mr Billson said.

The survey launched earlier this month and is aimed at identifying any unique challenges and opportunities faced by women who own and lead businesses. It will now remain open until 29 October.