Delivered through the Service NSW Business Bureau, the new program offers personalized, real-world guidance based directly on feedback from more than 3,000 business owners, major bodies, business chambers and councils across the state following a major review led by leading businessman Mark Bouris AM.
The new free service will offer flexible digital, phone and in-person support, ranging from AI adoption and customer acquisition to cash flow strategies and financial health checks.
Available immediately, the first phase of the program will give business owners direct access to:
- Free personalized advisory services covering business essentials
- Dedicated support for multicultural business owners
- Events, workshops and networking opportunities to strengthen capacity and business connections, as well as online resources.
Business owners will be able to access up to four hours of free, one-on-one coaching sessions for support with basic business skills. The program is expected to give NSW small businesses access to up to 11,325 hours of tailored business advice in its first six months.
The second phase of the program, which will launch at the end of February, will include:
- Specialist industrial advice: practical and focused guidance for high-demand sectors, including construction and hospitality.
- Sector Specific Programmes: Dedicated support to Aboriginal and women-led businesses facing unique local challenges.
- Connect in person: Local workshops, events and networking opportunities to build local business capabilities and connections.
- Next-generation AI tools: A range of intelligent digital tools that will be rolled out gradually throughout the 4-year program to help business owners conduct quick health checks and instantly combine them with personalized support.
For more information about the program and available services, visit service.nsw.gov.au/business
The launch of Small Business Advisory forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s wider agenda to provide widespread practical relief to support the entire business community during the current national economic challenges.
New South Wales continues to lead the country in business creation, recording a net increase of more than 200,000 new businesses since the election of the Minns Government and leading the nation in economic growth and private investment.
Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:
“Small businesses are the backbone of the New South Wales economy. They power our local communities, employ millions of people and move our state forward.
“We are ensuring our small business sector has access to free, high-quality support to truly grow and thrive in today’s changing economic landscape.”
Small Business Minister Janelle Saffin said:
“Small business owners are some of the hardest working people in New South Wales, and navigating regulations, adopting new technologies and managing growth are the perennial challenges of running small businesses.
“Support of this nature recognizes the contribution they make to the NSW economy and community and acknowledges their role.
“By integrating this advice support into the Service NSW Business Bureau, we offer a gateway for business owners. Whether you’re a tradesman in Dubbo, a café owner in Parramatta or a tech start-up in Tamworth, expert help is now just a phone call, click or quick visit away.”
Mark Bouris AM said:
“We engaged with more than 3,000 small business owners and stakeholders across the state and they gave us a clear mandate: to provide practical, trusted advice from people who really know what it takes to run a business.
“This improved service does exactly that.
“It cuts through bureaucracy and delivers real-world strategies, from mastering financial literacy and cash flow to leveraging AI, giving Australian business owners the competitive advantage they deserve.”
NSW Small Business Commissioner Kalina Koloff said:
“Across the state, I have heard directly from small business owners who are eager to take the next step with their businesses but often need the right support, advice and guidance. The Small Business Advisory Program will be instrumental in helping small businesses realize their ambitions, strengthen their resilience and continue to create jobs, opportunities and vibrant communities across New South Wales.
“As NSW Small Business Commissioner, I am delighted that small business owners now have access to this valuable support, allowing them to reach their full potential and build stronger businesses for the future.”