Your 101 guide to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)

Every business, regardless of its size or industry, affects the environment and the communities in which it operates. Responsible business ownership requires understanding these impacts and establishing practical measures to minimise negative outcomes. Incorporating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into your strategic planning provides a structured way to manage these responsibilities effectively. What Are […]

Borrowing is on the up: how to apply for a business loan

Recent figures from Equifax show a 3.9% rise in demand for business loans among Australian businesses. It’s a clear sign that more business owners are seeking finance to fund growth, new projects or scale-up opportunities. If you’re planning to access extra capital, understanding how to prepare and apply for funding can make all the difference. […]

Accessing funding for your female-led businesses

Access to business funding remains a significant challenge for female entrepreneurs. In 2024, research by the Founders Forum Group revealed that only 2% of global venture capital funding was provided to female-only founding teams. The World Economic Forum estimates the global finance gap for women in business at $1.7 trillion, with male-led enterprises continuing to […]

The benefits of having a diverse workforce

Promoting diversity and inclusion is more than an ethical stance – it is a strategic business decision that delivers measurable financial and operational benefits. Understanding diversity and inclusion: A workforce that mirrors the diversity of its community contributes to stronger organisational resilience, improved competitiveness and greater capacity for innovation. Commercial benefits: Practical measures to implement: […]

Measuring the health of your business with ratio measures

When managing a business, it is easy to become absorbed in day-to-day operations and lose sight of the broader strategic picture. Periodically reviewing the financial health of your business is essential. Understanding your current position enables more effective planning, early identification of potential issues, and better navigation toward long-term success. Key financial ratios provide a […]

Business confidence is on the up: how to overcome the big challenges

The past few years have been difficult for small businesses across Australia, but there are positive signs of renewed optimism. The National Australia Bank (NAB) Business Confidence Index reached +7 in July 2025 – its highest level since August 2022 – up from +5 in June. While confidence eased slightly in August (down three points), […]

The value of old-fashioned customer service: getting data insights

In an increasingly digital business environment, most customer interactions now occur online. However, traditional, high-quality customer service still plays a critical role in differentiating your business.Personal, tailored, and human-centred engagement builds trust and loyalty. The key is using customer data effectively to strengthen this approach. Here are four practical ways to use data analytics to […]

The value of cashflow forecasting for your business

Projecting your cashflow is a fundamental part of business management. Accurate forecasts give you a clear view of your financial position in the months ahead, enabling timely action to protect your cash reserves. With reliable forecasts, you can plan for different scenarios, identify opportunities for cost reduction, and implement strategies to maintain a healthy cash […]

Does your Aussie small business have a succession plan?

Research from MYOB reveals that almost half of Baby Boomer SME owners intend to exit their businesses within the next one to five years, yet a significant number have not established a formal succession plan. Without a clearly documented strategy, the transition from a seasoned owner to a new and less experienced operator can be […]