Regulatory burdens and government tendering are the biggest issues facing small businesses in New South Wales, according to small business commissioner Yasmin King.
The tour, Giving Small Business a Big Say, was rolled out to hundreds of small businesses across NSW to allow them to report on their challenges and future priorities.
According to King, the results showed that many small businesses are experiencing the same problems.
“While there were many specific local issues raised there were key themes that impacted small businesses universally throughout NSW,” King said.
King said small business operators highlighted the following issues as the most problematic:
1. Regulatory burdens;
2. Government tendering and procurement processes;
3. Work, health and safety requirements;
4. Fair Work Australia;
5. Local Government; and
6. Unfair market practises.
King will continue to work directly with small businesses through small visits to regional and metropolitan locations throughout 2012.
“In my role as Commissioner, I look forward to assisting small business operators to thrive in NSW and promote a positive business culture that supports rather than stifles entrepreneurial spirit,” King said.
According to the minister for small business, Katrina Hodgkinson, the tour was a success and will help to identify and fix problems in small businesses across the state.
“As Minister for Small Business, I want to ensure that small business operators have access to support, relevant and practical information and an independent advocate who will not only be a touchstone but someone who will fight for their rights,” Hodgkinson said.
