Small business owners across the North Coast can now access fee-free advice under an upgraded $37 million state support program spearheaded by their own local minister.
Minister for the North Coast and Minister for Small Business Janelle Saffin joined Treasurer Daniel Mookhey to officially launch the upgraded Small Business Advisory Program this week, delivered through the Service NSW Business Bureau.
The new program offers tailored, real-world guidance built directly on feedback from more than 3,000 business owners, peak bodies, business chambers and councils state-wide, following a major review led by entrepreneur Mark Bouris AM.
The fee-free service will offer flexible digital, phone and face-to-face support, ranging from AI adoption and customer acquisition to cash-flow strategy and financial health checks.
Business owners can now access free one-on-one advisory services covering core business essentials, dedicated support for multicultural business owners, and events, workshops and networking opportunities to strengthen business capability and connections.
Business owners will be able to access up to four hours of free, personalised advisory sessions, with the program anticipated to provide NSW small businesses with access to up to 11,325 hours of one-on-one business advice in its first six months.
A second phase launching in late February will add specialist industry advice for sectors including construction and hospitality, targeted programs for Aboriginal and women-led businesses, more in-person workshops and events, and a new range of AI tools to help business owners run quick health checks.
Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said small businesses were the backbone of the NSW economy.
“They power our local communities, employ millions of people and keep our state moving forward,” Treasurer Mookhey said.
“We are ensuring our small business sector has access to high-quality, fee-free support to grow and truly thrive in today’s changing economic landscape.”
Minister Saffin said small business owners were some of the hardest working people in NSW, and navigating regulations, adopting new tech, and managing growth were the perennial challenges of running a small business.
“Support of this nature recognises the contribution that they make to the NSW economy and the community and it recognises their role,” Minister Saffin said.
“By integrating this advisory support into the Service NSW Business Bureau, we’re providing one front door for business owners.
“Whether you’re a tradie in Dubbo, a cafe owner in Parramatta, or a tech startup in Tamworth, expert help is now just a phone call, click, or quick visit away.”
Mark Bouris AM said the review team had engaged with more than 3,000 small business owners and stakeholders across the state, who gave a clear mandate for practical, trusted advice from people who understood what it took to run a business.
NSW Small Business Commissioner Kalina Koloff said business owners across the state were eager to take the next step but often needed the right support, advice and guidance.
More information is available at service.nsw.gov.au/business
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