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The Senate this week passed legislation to establish an Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman.
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Small business ombudsman established
19 August 2015
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According to a statement from small business minister Bruce Billson, the introduction of the Ombudsman will ensure that small businesses have an easy access point for advice regarding avoiding and managing disputes.
Mr Billson stressed the importance of establishing such a body, as an election commitment made by the government.
“With the Ombudsman in place the hard working women and men of Australian small business can get on with the important job of running their business instead of being caught up in dispute resolution,” the minister said.
In addition to advocacy for small businesses and family enterprises, the Ombudsman will act as a concierge for dispute resolution and a contributor to the development of small business-friendly laws and regulations.
The minister added that “the Ombudsman is also empowered to act as an independent advocate for issues that small businesses are facing at the national level, voicing concerns to Government and industry where small businesses are being adversely affected”.
The Ombudsman will also provide a hub for small businesses to seek and obtain relevant business advice and services for their respective circumstances, via a “seamless link” with the business.gov.au website.
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Small business commissioners will continue to assist businesses throughout Australia while the government establishes the body and develops its future plan for small business.
“The establishment of this Small Business Ombudsman is a step closer to ensuring Australia is the best place to build and grow a small business”, the minister concluded.
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