Small business is not only the engine room for the national economy, it is also crucial to the long term viability of our regional communities. The Federal Coalition has announced a number of low cost measures to help small business as a part of the Abbott Government’s Australian Small Business Advisory Programme (ASBAS).

The Government will make available $18 million over three years for chambers of commerce, business enterprise centres and industry groups to deliver advice and information services to small businesses and start-ups.

As part of the assistance small businesses will be able to get help in five keys areas to help improve their chance of success:

1. Funding avenues and financial analysis

2. Building your business

3. Making the most of your talent and team

4. Management capabilities

5. Digital engagement implementation

 

The ASBAS programme has been developed because the Government recognises the importance of small business to the economy and to employment, growth and innovation.  The assistance available through ASBAS will help small businesses, including new start-up businesses and home-based businesses, build productivity and growth through the provision of low cost business advisory services.

The Coalition understands the importance of restoring business confidence to creating a more prosperous society. One way we can make a difference to our communities is by choosing to shop locally. 

The Australian Small Business Advisory Services (ASBAS) programme opened on 15 October 2014, for not-for profit small business advisory service providers, delivering low cost small business advisory and information services.

Eligible not-for-profit small business advisors interested in receiving further information may register via www.business.gov.au/asbas.  New services are expected to commence in February 2015, and small businesses seeking assistance should contact the single business service contact centre or visit www.business.gov.au.

***

Last week I was pleased to host Senator Simon Birmingham in the Electorate as he announced that the Federal Government would commit 15.9 million for the continuation of the Great Artesian Basin Sustainability Initiative (GABSI). GABSI has been successful in capping and piping free-flowing bores across the Great Artesian Basin. Parts of this area are still struggling through one of the worst droughts in recorded history and this investment in the future of our water is very welcome. Since GABSI began in 1999, the Australian Government has invested nearly $115 million to repair 650 uncontrolled artesian bores, saving 200 billion litres of water annually. It is very important that this work to secure our water continues.