Electricity prices are on the rise: how can you minimise your costs?

Small businesses located along Australia’s East Coast may experience an increase in electricity costs ranging from 4.2% to 8.2% in the near future, according to the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) draft determination for electricity pricing in the 2025–26 financial year. Electricity remains a significant overhead for most small businesses. As such, a notable increase in […]

Business credit: the importance of a good business credit score

Securing additional finance is often essential for business investment and growth. However, lenders rely heavily on your business credit score when assessing your suitability for credit. Maintaining a strong credit profile is therefore vital. Understanding Business Credit Scores: A business credit score is a numerical indicator of your company’s creditworthiness. It assesses the risk associated […]

Five steps to better cash flow

Need assistance managing cash flow? You’re not alone. The key to improving cash flow is ensuring your invoicing is accurate and timely. Invoice your customers as soon as possible, and utilise tools such as Xero’s invoice reminders to help expedite payments. Here are some additional simple strategies you can implement to better manage cash flow […]

Recession-proof your retail business

The past few years have presented unprecedented challenges for businesses worldwide, and economic uncertainty continues to persist. Whether your business operates online, offers click-and-collect, or follows a more traditional retail model, there are practical steps you can take to strengthen your position and reduce the impact of future downturns. If you’re dealing with multiple pressures […]

Labor wins Federal Election: the impact for your small business

Following the Federal Election on 3 May 2025, the Australian Labor Party has been returned to government with a clear majority. This result provides continuity and allows the Government to proceed with its policy agenda aimed at supporting Australian businesses, particularly small enterprises. Several key initiatives announced or extended by the Government may offer practical […]

Making your business work for you: making enough to retire

As a business owner, you may take great satisfaction in running your enterprise. However, it is important to acknowledge that, eventually, you will look to sell the business and transition into retirement. In today’s uncertain economic environment, ensuring that your business can be sold for a strong value is critical to securing your financial future. […]

Understanding Your Profit and Loss Statement

The Profit and Loss Statement (P&L), also known as the Income Statement, is a fundamental financial report that outlines a business’s income and expenditure over a defined period. Unlike the Balance Sheet, which provides a snapshot of a business’s financial position at a single point in time, the P&L offers a dynamic view of financial […]

Trump’s tariffs: what they mean if you export to the USA

For Australian small businesses exporting to the United States, the recently imposed US tariffs represent a significant and immediate shift in trading conditions. These are not merely political manoeuvres—they are tangible cost increases that may directly affect your bottom line. Understanding the Tariff Introduction As part of his renewed ‘America First’ policy, President Trump has […]

The Fundamentals of a Business Budget

A well-structured business budget is a critical tool for effectively managing your financial position and driving sustainable business growth. A budget provides a forward-looking view of your expected cash inflows and outflows over the next financial year, allowing for strategic planning and informed decision-making. To gain a comprehensive understanding of your business’s financial health, it […]

Reducing the uncertainty: financial forecasting and planning

Uncertainty can significantly impact financial planning, making it challenging to make informed decisions regarding operational budgets, investment strategies, and growth funding. By leveraging financial forecasting and scenario planning, businesses can enhance their financial management, anticipate challenges, and mitigate potential risks. Financial reports—such as cash flow statements, profit and loss reports, and management accounts—provide valuable insights […]