the south australian small business statement

8/9/2019 The South Australian Small Business Statement

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The South Australian

Small Business StatementA DYNAMIC AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

FOR SMALL BUSINESS



The South Australian Government acknowledges the essential role played by small business

in a sustainable, prosperous economy and a vibrant community.

The South Australian Government is committed to:

• nurturing and encouraging well-planned start-up businesses;

• supporting the growth, employment and export capabilities of small businesses;

• integrating small businesses in the digital economy; and

• monitoring and reacting positively to the circumstances in which small

businesses operate.

The South Australian Government will:

• create the most supportive business environment in Australia for small business;

• continue to invest in world-class infrastructure;

• encourage innovative new thinking and technologies;

• deliver the most up-to-date business advice, information, education and skills

development through Business Enterprise Centres (BECs) and Regional Development

Australia (SA) networks;

• foster awareness of the opportunities provided by the digital economy;

• work closely with the Business Development Council (BDC), industry associations,

boards and stakeholder groups to advance the cause of small business;

• maximise opportunities for small business in priority projects; and

• improve the information flow between government and small business.

A D Y N A M I C A N D S U S T A I N A B L E F U T U R E F O R S M A L L B U S I N E S S 1

South Australian

Government Overview



A D Y N A M I C A N D S U S T A I N A B L E F U T U R E F O R S M A L L B U S I N E S S2

CONTENTS

South Australian Government Overview 1

A Message from the Premier 3

A Message from the Minister for Small Business 4

A Message from the Chair of the Business Development Council 5

Introduction 6

Small Business in South Australia 7

Small Business and Government 13

Communicating with Small Business 13

Responsive to Small Business Needs 15

Current Government Support 26

Looking to the Future 41

A Vision for Small Business 42

Appendix 1 43

Appendix 2 44

Appendix 3 45

Further information 48



A dynamic and sustainable small business sector is crucial to the ongoing prosperity of South

Australia’s economy. That is why the South Australian Government remains strongly committed

to establishing and supporting initiatives that help ensure our small businesses continue to be

forward-looking as well as resilient.

Since coming to office in 2002, we have created a more competitive business environment

by slashing red tape, reducing payroll tax and offering a range of advisory, marketing and

training services.

We also recognise there are issues of specific importance to people who operate and are

employed in family businesses, and we have acted to support them. For example, Dr Dennis Jaffe,

a world expert in family business, was brought to Adelaide as part of our "Thinkers in Residence"

program. As a result of his work, we have appointed a Family Business Development Manager

to raise awareness of the importance of family businesses and the specific challenges they face.

Training courses and broad support for family businesses and those who advise them are

also available.

An increasingly globalised market, rapid technological advances and an ageing workforce are

among factors that affect small businesses. At the same time, the internet and mobile

communications are eradicating traditional market boundaries, meaning innovative business

operators can now compete in any industry, anywhere in the world.

The Government is committed to working with our small business sector to ensure we respond to

these changing circumstances.

The recent global economic crisis underscored the importance of embracing sound and practical

policy, strong partnerships between industry and government, and a proactive approach to change.

The South Australian Government and organisations working to assist the small business

sector are adopting that collaborative approach, through agencies such as the Business

Development Council.

The Council called for a Small Business Statement that outlines the

activities the Government has put in place to foster a supportive

small business climate, and it made significant contributions towards

its production.

The South Australian Government looks forward to continuing our close

working relationship with this vitally important sector that generates jobs

and sustains so many families and communities, in order to help it meet

the challenges of today and the future.

MIKE RANN

Premier of South Australia

Minister for Economic Development

OUR GOVERNMENT IS COMMITTED TO ENSURING SOUTH AUSTRALIA IS THE MOST

FORWARD-LOOKING, RESILIENT, DYNAMIC AND SUSTAINABLE “SMALL BUSINESS” STATE

IN AUSTRALIA.

Message from the Premier




The Small Business Statement encapsulates the State Government’s commitment to providing

the most supportive business environment in Australia in which small business may grow and

prosper. It recognises small business as a significant contributor to the State’s economic, social

and regional development, and as a major driver of South Australia’s economic success.

As specified in South Australia’s Strategic Plan, the South Australian Government aims to

make South Australia the most competitive place in Australia and New Zealand in which to invest

or operate a business. We are well on the way to achieving this goal, as independent

assessments demonstrate:

• Adelaide is the most cost-competitive city for business in Australia and the third

most cost-competitive in the world in its population bracket (KPMG 2008 Competitive Alternatives Survey) .

• South Australia was the first State to mandate the use of the Business Cost Calculator to

identify and quantify compliance costs to businesses of new regulations.

• Despite the global economic downturn, South Australia has retained its AAA credit rating

from Standard & Poor’s and Moodys, enabling it to finance world-class infrastructure projects.

• South Australian land and construction, property and labour costs are internationally

competitive and together represent great economic value – making the State a superior

location in which to do business.

With a strong commitment from the State Government and innovative

leadership from industry, South Australia will have a businessenvironment in which small businesses can achieve their potential.

I look forward to working with all small businesses to ensure this

may occur.

PAUL HOLLOWAY

Minister for Small Business

THE STATE GOVERNMENT WORKS WITH SMALL BUSINESS TO IDENTIFY AND RESPOND TO

EMERGING OPPORTUNITIES.

Message from the

Minister for Small Business




On behalf of South Australia’s small-business operators, the Business Development Council (BDC)

is proud to endorse this Small Business Statement .

This document provides a formal recognition of the value of small business and reflects the

enormous contribution of the sector to the South Australian economy.

The BDC represents a wide range of small businesses operating in many sectors of the economy.

It is passionate about small business in South Australia and through its role as an advisory policy

body seeks to address issues of concern to small business.

The most pressing concern in recent times has been the challenge posed by the global financial

crisis (GFC). The State Government has listened to the needs of small business and providedassistance in response to the economic downturn. Of particular note has been the additional

support – in the form of information and advice – available to those small-business operators

looking for help in managing financial, management and personal issues related to the unexpected

economic conditions.

The continuation of sound policy settings and the introduction of initiatives as they are deemed

necessary will ensure that South Australian businesses are ready to capitalise on those

opportunities that will emerge as the world recovers.

The infrastructure projects planned and underway and anticipated growth in sectors such as mining,

defence, cleantech, advanced manufacturing, knowledge-intensive services and bio-innovation

point to a bright future for small business in this State.

The BDC will continue to work with all small business stakeholders in

South Australia to advance the cause of small business here in South

Australia – a State where great people run great businesses doing

great things.

We welcome the Small Business Statement and thank the State

Government for listening to and engaging with us as we all work to

promote small business in South Australia.

PHILIP SIMS

Chair

Business Development Council

Message from the Chair of

the Business Development Council




Introduction

The changing business environment requires that the South Australian Government monitor

closely, and be prepared to revise quickly, the policies and programs it has in place to support and

develop the small-business sector.

In September 2008, the Minister for Small Business announced that the State Government would

frame a “Small Business Statement” to recognise the vital role small business plays in South

Australia’s economic and community prosperity.

This Statement provides a framework for government agencies and small business to respond

effectively to the diverse concerns of the sector and its members, and outlines Government’s

commitment to create a dynamic and viable small-business sector.

The State’s small-business community has provided significant input into the Statement , the

content of which has been guided by the South Australian Strategic Plan (SASP) and the Economic

Development Board’s (EDB) 2009 Economic Statement: South Australia’s Prospects for Growth.

A viable small business sector will contribute to the six SASP objectives – Growing Prosperity;

Improving Wellbeing; Attaining Sustainability; Fostering Creativity; Building Communities and

Expanding Opportunity – and related targets.

The economic and social impacts of the global economic downturn are still working their way

through the local, national and international economies and affecting the way small business

operates. Despite the uncertainty, the EDB has predicted a bright future for South Australia,

suggesting it is better placed than other States to emerge from the downturn in a strong position.

The South Australian Government will continue to monitor the impacts and refine or adapt its smallbusiness programs and services to meet the changing needs of business as conditions improve.

The global financial crisis (GFC) coincided with the period of development of this Statement and

clearly affected some of the submissions received during the important public consultation stage.

Submissions were received from 46 small businesses, business groups, industry associations,

universities and private think-tanks.

Small business in South Australia has maintained a relatively strong position during this difficult

time. The challenge now is for small businesses to better understand the crisis and position

themselves to benefit from economic recovery and renewal.




A vibrant small business sector is critical to achieving economic growth, creating new jobs

and increasing exports. Small businesses bind communities together, especially in regional

South Australia, providing the products and services that feed the local areas and help to

sustain communities.

Small business in South Australia

South Australia has approximately 135,000 small businesses (including agri-business), accounting

for 96 per cent of all private sector business establishments in the State.1 The majority (62 per

cent) of small businesses were sole-trading (non-employing) businesses.

Small business and employment

Of particular significance to the economy is the change in mix of employing and non-employing

small businesses over the period from 2003-04 to 2006-07.

The number of employing small businesses grew by 9,200 (24 per cent) while the number

of non-employing small businesses fell by 4,400 (5 per cent).2 This suggests that more small

businesses are growing in size and creating more jobs.

Small Business in South Australia

200 or more employees 0.2%

Business non-employing 62.4%

20 to 199 employees 4.0%

1 to 9 employees 33.4%

1 ABS Cat No 8165.0, Counts of Australian Businesses, including Entries and Exits, Jun 2003 to Jun 2007. Small Business here includes small employing businesses

(i.e. employment of fewer than 20 persons) and non-employing businesses.

2 Ibid.

Figure 1 Small businesses dominate South Australian business numbers




Diversity

South Australia’s small businesses exist in a number of industries, with a high representation in

property and business services, agriculture, construction, retail trade, and finance and insurance.3

Five of the industries accounted for more than 70 per cent of al l South Australian small businesses.

The proportion held by each of these industries has remained relatively constant since 2003-04.

During the next decade, major mining and defence projects in South Australia will create and

require significant activity including construction; investment in energy, transport, water and other

infrastructure; and social infrastructure requirements. These developments present many growth

opportunities for existing small businesses and for innovative operators to introduce new and

diverse businesses into the State economy.

Small-business exporters

In 2007-08 there were 2,400 goods exporters in the State, with more than one-third (797) of these

exporters categorised as small exporters. This number represented an increase of nine per cent

over the previous year’s total.4

The South Australian small businesses that export do so within a number of diverse industries.

Manufacturing (257) and wholesale (200) are the largest sectors, representing almost 60 per cent

of small-business goods exporters in the State.5

0 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 30000 35000

Number of Small Business

Electricity, gas & water supply

Mining

Education

Communication servicesCultural & recreational

Accomm, cafés & restaurants

Personal & other services

Wholesale trade

Health & community services

Manufacturing

Transport & storage

Finance & insurance

Retail trade

Construction

Agriculture

Property & business services

3 ABS Cat No 8165.0, Counts of Australian Businesses, including Entries and Exits, Jun 2003 to Jun 2007.

4 ABS Cat No.5368.0.55.006, Characteristics of Australian Exporters, 2007-08. Small exporters are defined as exporters having fewer than 20 payees and estimated annual GST

turnover range less than $1 million and exports of less than $1 million.

5 Ibid.

Figure 2 South Australian small businesses by industry




Small-business exporters continued

From a relatively low base, the “other” sector recorded the strongest growth in the number

of businesses between 2005-06 and 2007-08, with an increase of 35 per cent, followed by

construction (25 per cent) and retail trade sectors (20 per cent).

The number of South Australian small goods exporters has not increased significantly in

recent years.

In 2007-08, of all Australian small goods exporters, only six per cent had South Australia as their

main State for business operations, which is below South Australia’s share of the national

economy. The export base of small goods exporters in the State has diversified little in recent

years. International experience shows that globally oriented economies grow faster than those

that are insular; exports must be a key driver of economic growth for the State in an increasingly

integrated global market.

The South Australian Government is committed to assisting small business develop and grow

export-oriented industries – those characterised by high value-add and innovation such as

mineral resources, defence, electronics and ICT, education, health and cleantech (includingrenewable energies) – and to building export value from agribusiness, advanced manufacturing

and knowledge-intensive services.

South Australian businesses – and particularly small and medium-sized businesses – will need

to embrace exports as an essential element in achieving growth, and diversify their export bases

towards higher-value products and services.

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

N u m b e r o f S m a l l G o o d s E x p o r t e r s

Agriculture,forestry &fishing

Manufacturing ConstructionWholesaletrade

Retail trade Transport& storage

Property& businessservices

Other

■ 2005-06 ■ 2006-07 ■ 2007-08

Figure 3 South Australian small-business exporters by industry 2005-06 – 2007-08




Small business embracing new technology

The small business sector is recognised world-wide as the breeding ground for entrepreneurial

talent. The use of computer, internet and telecommunication technologies in small business has

transformed the operational landscape and created a ‘digital economy’ environment.

The rapid speed of technological change is presenting opportunities for those small-business

operators who see e-commerce as part of growth strategy. Of note, South Australia outranks

other states in the percentage of businesses having a web presence and in placing orders

via the internet.

South Australia is the second-best performer in terms of businesses with internet access, dial-up

or ISDN as the main type of internet connection. The State is slightly behind other Australian

states in the number of businesses with broadband as the main type of internet connection. 6

Recognising the significance of broadband in the professional and personal lives of South

Australians, the State Government has invested $3 million in the AdamMax Metropolitan

Broadband Blackspots Project, a partnership between the State and Australian Governments and

internet service provider Adam Internet. The project will deliver high-speed, reliable and affordable

broadband services to homes and businesses across Adelaide suburbs before the introduction of

the national broadband network.

The AdamMax wireless network will improve the sub-standard broadband services that “blackspot”

customers are forced to use and provide a competitive marketplace for broadband services inmetropolitan Adelaide. The first connections will be in Adelaide’s southern suburbs, where there

are a significant number of broadband blackspots.

The wireless network will ensure that Adelaide is equal to the national and international locations

that are already receiving high-quality broadband. The service may be upgraded as technological

developments become available.

6 ABS Cat No 8129.0, Business Use of Information Technology, 2007-08, Table 3. Note that States included are New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Au stralia and

Western Australia.




BTS CaféJacqui Roehl

Cup cake café’s unique recipe for success

Jacqui Roehl’s BTS Café on Pirie Street is proving a hit with more than just its quickly

growing group of loyal customers.

The café, which specialises in cup cakes, also supports a worthy cause.

“I sell specially branded bottled water and 10 cents from the sale of every bottle is donated

to an organisation which helps women in third-world countries. The money raised is used

specifically to help women start their own businesses,” Jacqui says.

“The water is called STL, or Spread the Love, which is essentially the philosophy of my

business as a whole. The inspiration to start BTS Café came while I was dealing with a tough

personal challenge and, as a result of that experience, I knew I wanted to help children.

“I couldn’t think of a better way than to help those who care for children – their mothers.

The charity side to my business is something I’m very passionate about.”

Jacqui’s business has achieved steady growth since the doors opened in April. It’s clear

that the decadent cup cakes (made from recipes Jacqui has been developing for four years)

are an ingredient for business success.

“If you have a good business plan, access to the right resources and advice and plenty of

support, anything is possible,” Jacqui says. “It’s been an awesome journey and I’m certainly

very proud of what I have achieved so far.”




Print

JunctionLeon Torzyn

Quality the key for family printing business

Staying small and keeping a strong focus on superior service is paying dividends for Leon

and Sheila Torzyn and their family printing company Print Junction.

Since starting the business in 1993, a dedication to delivering quality work has resulted in an

expansion of the Wingfield-based printing business so that it now has six employees and an

impressive list of local and national clients.

“Our customer base has certainly grown but it has also diversified – we’re now catering

to more interstate clients, and word-of-mouth recommendations have played a large part in

this,” Leon says. “We don’t take on jobs that are beyond our capacity. Instead, we focus on

doing the smaller jobs well. This has meant better long-term results for us because it

ensures repeat business and it means that our greatest marketers – our customers – are

recommending us to other people.”

A long career in the printing industry has helped Leon steer the family business in the rightdirection. Leon works alongside his wife, one of their two sons and daughter Leah, who

manages the company.

Leon says the biggest challenge has been keeping up with technology.

“Technology is certainly the biggest competitor we have as new printing machines

continually come onto the market,” Leon says.

“It’s my belief that you have to do what you can to keep up-to-date. However it’s also

important to find the right balance of investing in your business to achieve results, but not

over-extending yourself financially.

“Owning your own business can be tough at times and you certainly have to put in the work.But for me, the only regret has been that I didn’t do it sooner.”




The ability of government to respond to the needs of small business depends on it receiving

appropriate and timely information.

Through the Department of Trade and Economic Development’s Office of Small Business

and Regional Development, the State Government keeps informed of the challenges small

business face, the circumstances in which they operate and the needs they experience.

The information obtained by the Office comes in several ways, including:

• Direct input from small businesses

• Feedback from those small-business proprietors who attend government training

programs and workshops

• Surveys and, more recently, the Small Business Statement public consultation process

• Industry-based organisations.

Business Enterprise Centres (BEC)

The BEC network operates as a first point of contact for micro and small business seeking

assistance with start-up, growth and development.

Centres provide free, confidential and independent information, advice and counselling. They are

not-for-profit organisations supported by State, Local and Commonwealth governments, with

support from membership, other sponsors and business.

There are nine metropolitan Business Enterprise Centres (BEC network):

• Northern Adelaide Business Enterprise Centre

• Salisbury Business & Export Centre

• North West Business Development Centre

• Inner West Business Enterprise Centre

• Inner Southern Business Enterprise Centre

• Southern Success Business Enterprise Centre

• Eastside Business Enterprise Centre

• Tea Tree Gully Business Enterprise Centre

• Enterprise Adelaide.

Contact details of BECs are provided in Appendix 1.

Regional Development Australia (SA)

The State Government’s Regional Development Board (RDB) Program funds 13 RDBs through a

bilateral agreement between State and Local Government, primarily to attract business investment

and generate employment outcomes in regional South Australia.

RDBs provide shop fronts for business development services offered to regions by the State

Government. They also provide a service-delivery function for a number of State andCommonwealth programs, such as SA Works in the Regions, Regional Food Program, Far North

Economic Development initiative and Skilled Migration and Tradestart programs.

Small Business and Government

COMMUNICATING WITH SMALL BUSINESS




Regional Development Australia (SA) continued

In the 2008-09 Budget, the Federal Government announced a new Regional Development Australia

(RDA) initiative to bring together all levels of government to enhance the growth and development

of regional Australia.

The RDA network is being established throughout Australia to provide a strategic framework

for economic growth in each region. On 29 June 2009, the State, Federal and local governments

signed the agreement to establish RDA (SA).

RDA (SA) will:

• Provide business and economic development services to regional communities;

• Provide advice to governments about local regional issues;

• Provide strategic input into Australian and South Australian government programs;

• Provide information to regional communities on Australian and South Australian

government initiatives;

• Help to coordinate regional planning and regional development initiatives; and

• Establish links and cooperative alliances as appropriate by closely working with other

regional development organisations, neighbouring RDAs and local governments to

promote regional development.

Seven regional RDAs and an RDA Adelaide advisory committee are being created to align withSouth Australia’s Government regional boundaries. RDA (SA) will carry on the work of the previous

Area Consultative Committees and Regional Development Boards to help ensure regional projects

and services remain responsive to regional communities’ needs.

A formal voice for small business in government policy-making

The South Australian Government provides a number of forums that enable the concerns and

ideas of business to feed into its policy formation processes:

• Business Development Council – The BDC is the principal advisor to the State Government

about key issues in the sector. It also works on strategic projects aimed at supporting

small-business growth. Its members represent a wide range of sectors, operate in

metropolitan and regional areas and each brings to the Council sound entrepreneurial skills.

• Business Impact Statements (BIS) – The BIS is a formal assessment of the impact of

new policy proposals on the business community, and where applicable it compels

government agencies to use a Business Cost Calculator (BCC). A BIS must be provided to

Cabinet for consideration. The BIS and BCC have reduced the potentially negative effects

on business that may result from new regulations.

• Small Business Ministerial Council – The Small Business Ministerial Council has

responsibility for small-business issues within the Council of Australian Governments (COAG).

The Council meets annually and consists of the Australian government, state, territory and

New Zealand government ministers directly responsible for small-business policy.

In addition, the State Government also regularly liaises with industry associations on specific and

general matters affecting small businesses operating in South Australia.




Market competition, the accelerated uptake of technology and the ageing of the workforce

are driving changes within our society. The challenge for the State is to respond and adapt

to, and capitalise on, these changes.

The forums mentioned previously enable the State Government to respond to those issues

identified by small business itself as priorities. These issues include the ability of local small

businesses to win contracts from major projects, the challenges facing family businesses,

the need for more accessible information on small business issues, and more recently, the

short and long-term ramifications of the GFC.

Global financial crisis (GFC)

The GFC demanded specific, urgent and effective action from the South Australian Government

to identify and address potential and real impacts on small business. Existing programs and new

responses that assisted small businesses cope with the GFC included:

• Fast-tracking a range of infrastructure projects including those in the Australian

Government’s stimulus packages

• A free hotline to help small businesses access information and advice

• Training programs and workshops provided through BECs, RDA(SA) and the South Australian

Centre for Innovation – about meeting the challenges of the GFC

• Promotion of existing government programs and assistance, including the Regional

Development Infrastructure Fund and Small Business Development Grants.

Statistics show that in 2008-09, South Australian business-related bankruptcies fell to 187 –

15 fewer than in 2007-08, indicative South Australia has weathered the storm of the GFC

relatively well.7

To address the potential slowing down of the Australian economy resulting from the GFC, the

Commonwealth Government in December 2008 implemented a $10.4 billion Economic Security

Strategy as a short-term, cash-injection stimulus package.

In February 2009, the Australian Government announced the $42 billion Nation Building Economic

Stimulus Plan – including a short-term stimulus package and a series of long-term infrastructure

projects – to support jobs and invest in long-term economic growth.

Close to 800 South Australian schools are receiving approximately $1.4 billion for new infrastructure

and facility upgrades over the next three years.

Around $450 million is being provided to Housing SA over four financial years to increase the

supply and quality of social housing of which some 1,360 new social housing dwellings will be built

and up to 500 existing social dwellings are being upgraded.

South Australian Councils are also receiving in the order of $60 million and approximately

$29 million will be provided for road maintenance works, road Black Spot improvements and rail

level crossing safety upgrades.

7 Insolvency Trustee Service Australia Quarterly Business/non-Business Bankruptcy Statistics,

< http://www.itsa.gov.au/dir228/itsaweb.nsf/docindex/statistics-%3Estatistics?opendocument >. Note that all the figures refer to personal administrations under the

Bankruptcy Act only and do not include corporate insolvency. A business-related bankruptcy is defined as being one in which an individual’s bankruptcy is directly related to

his or her proprietary interest in a business.

RESPONSIVE TO SMALL BUSINESS NEEDS




Around 300,000 homeowners, landlords and tenants are also able to benefit from rebates for

ceiling insulation and solar hot water, many of which are low income households. Over 330

insulation installers have registered to operate in South Australia under the rebate program since

1 July 2009. Many of these are new market entrants.

The Office of Consumer and Business Affairs has worked quickly to streamline and fast-track

the licensing process for new installers to maximise the stimulus opportunities from the program,

as well as ensuring installations in South Australia are safe and comply with industry standards.

There are 142 building contractors being allocated school projects and 54 building contractors

being allocated social housing projects in South Australia, with the majority made up of

smaller businesses. This will also have a strong flow-on effect to the building industry, creating

opportunities for the retention of existing staff and in many instances, the hiring of additional staff.

The Australian Government also introduced the following measures to directly assist

small businesses:

• Small business will receive an additional 50 per cent tax deduction for investment in new

assets such as plant, equipment and machinery.

• Reduced Pay-As-You-Go tax instalments in 2009-10 are providing cash-flow relief for more

than one million small businesses.

• A small business credit complaints clearing house ([email protected])

is receiving and investigating complaints about access to credit.

In order to ensure the State maximised the benefits of the Nation Building Economic Stimulus

Plan’s proposed education, social housing, road safety, energy-efficiency and community

infrastructure projects, the South Australian Government moved quickly and established the Office

of the Coordinator-General to provide a single point of contact for the South Australian component.8

It also amended the Development Regulations 2008 under the Development Act 1993 .

In addition, the State Government expanded its list of pre-qualified building contractors for both

residential and non-residential construction to supplement the pool of resources available to

deliver the work. To engage building contractors, a number of industry briefing sessions have

been held.

Investing in infrastructure

Modern infrastructure is essential to maintaining South Australia’s economic prosperity and high

standards of living. Investment in roads, rail, ports, energy, water and telecommunications helps

small businesses by enabling them to perform their daily tasks efficiently and effectively – thereby

boosting their cost-competitiveness and improving their ability to respond to their customers’ needs.

The Strategic Infrastructure Plan for South Australia outlines the State Government’s long-term

strategic goals and directions for infrastructure projects. The plan provides for the timely provision

of infrastructure by the private sector and Commonwealth, state and local governments.

Despite the impact of the GFC on the State’s revenue, the South Australian Government has

maintained its infrastructure spending at record levels. This contrasts with the many jurisdictions

that have been forced to cut their spending in the current economic climate.

8 Details see the Office of the Coordinator General’s website: http://www.dtei.sa.gov.au/coordinator_general





Accessing opportunities from major-project investment

The 2009 -10 State Budget provided a record $11.4 billion in infrastructure investment over the

next four years. The investment program for 2009-10 is more than $3.8 billion, representing more

than five times the level of actual expenditure in 2001-02. Proposed infrastructure includes public

transport, Techport Australia facilities, the Northern Expressway and the Adelaide desalination plant.

The following graph shows the State Government’s historically high levels of capital investment

across the forward estimates.

In addition, the Australian Government’s Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan will lead to the

construction of social and defence housing and school and community facilities. Together with

private-sector investment and the numerous infrastructure projects underway in the State, these

projects are creating many opportunities for small businesses.

Feedback from local small businesses indicated that many believe they may miss these

opportunities. As a result, the State Government is undergoing a review of the South Australian

Industry Participation Policy (SAIPP), due for completion in December 2009. A revised SAIPP

has the potential to provide a range of benefits to the South Australian community by promoting

opportunities for greater local involvement in these major projects.

The revised SAIPP will be supported by the Industry Capability Network in South Australia (ICNSA).

The ICNSA has built strategic relationships in the resources, defence, infrastructure and

manufacturing sectors that maintain and increase local industry participation in major projects

such as the Air Warfare Destroyers, the Olympic Dam expansion and the desalination plant.

4000

3500

3000

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

0

( $ m i l l i o n )

2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13

■ Actual purchases of non-financial assets ■ Estimated purchases of non-financial assets

Actual depreciation

Source: South Australia 2009-10 Budget Paper

Estimated depreciation

Figure 4 Non-financial public sector purchases of non-financial assets



Natural EarthSkin Care Amanda Ross

Gawler business takes on global market

When Amanda Ross started producing her natural, plant-based skincare range, it was a rarity

in a market consisting almost entirely of chemically enhanced products.

The market has changed significantly since she established Natural Earth Skin Care

in 1999, with the industry now flooded with lotions and potions promising the benefits of

natural ingredients.

Despite the increased competition Natural Earth Skin Care has thrived, its growth and

success largely due to Amanda’s passion and commitment.

Natural Earth Skin Care products are 100 per cent plant-derived and use organic ingredients

and extracts.

“We use high volumes of herbal extracts and vitamins and minerals so our products really

do produce great results for our customers,” Amanda says. “My philosophy is to create

products that are as healthy as possible and packed full of natural benefits.

“I wanted to create products that are affordable for everyone, not just exclusive groups of

people – so getting the price right has been the key.

“I also believe in being honest and transparent, and I think that has added to our credibility.”

Amanda’s range has proved so popular that it’s now being sold nationally and overseas.

Months of negotiations led to a five-year contract with a distributor who has taken it to

Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Brunei and Saudi Arabia.

Sales have increased by 30 per cent on last year’s results – testament to the quality of the

face creams and hair products manufactured at a property in the Gawler Ranges foothills.

“We never compromise on ingredients, and that has played a major part in our success,”

Amanda says. “I’m certainly looking forward to the next phase of the business, which will

hopefully include me taking a step back from the production side so that I can focus moreon marketing and exporting.”




Patent innovation drives success forfamily business

Bronte Scholz finished high school and immediately started work in the family

manufacturing business.

Twenty-five years later, Bronte is now the manager of Cameron Canvas Pty Ltd . But despite

his father being the owner of the business, there was never any favouritism – Bronte’s first

role was on the factory floor, just as it was for his colleagues, and he was made to work his

way up through the company from there.

Now it’s clear that his experience and understanding of every aspect of the business – a

manufacturer of camper trailers and accessories such as caravan awnings, blinds and “ute”

canopies – are paying dividends.

“In the last few years we’ve patented a number of camper-trailer designs, something which

has really helped continue our growth and success,” Bronte says.

“I have no formal training in this area. But because I’ve worked in the business for so

long and because I understand every aspect of it, our designs are detailed and innovative.

We know what works and what doesn’t.”

Cameron Canvas has been operating since the early 1970s. When Bronte and his wife took

over, they made a conscious decision to maintain the personalised approach synonymous

with family businesses.

“My mother and father and my brother have all worked in the business, so it truly does have

that family feel,” Bronte says.

“We have tried to maintain that family culture and sense of closeness, something which is

extended to our customers through the personalised approach we adopt.

“I have a clear memory of my friends wagging school and not wanting to do anything,

whereas I would look forward to missing a day of school and going in to work with my dad.

He’s now retired but my enjoyment for what I do hasn’t changed one bit.”

CameronCanvas Pty Ltd

Bronte Scholz




Family business

Analysis of the family business sector indicates that more than half of the State’s existing family

businesses will consider closure or transferring to new owners within the next 10 years.

In 2007 the Thinkers in Residence program invited international family-business expert Dr Dennis

Jaffe to South Australia to examine the status of family businesses in South Australia and what

measures could be introduced to help them grow and succeed. Dr Jaffe’s report was released in

2008. As a result, South Australia now has:

• A Family Business Sub-Committee reporting to the Minister for Small Business through the

Business Development Council

• A dedicated Family Business Development Manager (within the Department of Trade and

Economic Development) responsible for developing and coordinating support for family

businesses across the State.

The Family Business Development Manager works with Family Business Australia (FBA), BECs

and RDA (SA) to design tools to specifically support family business.

The Business Development Council’s Family Business Sub-Committee is working to develop a

positive climate for family businesses, with a focus on specific areas:

• Encouraging young people to enter into business leadership, developing positive mind-sets

and preparing them for ownership of family businesses

• Reviewing circumstances that discourage family business growth and/or transfer, and

creating a positive economic climate for family business sustainability

• Investigating ways of increasing business migration for those people who want to work in

or purchase family businesses

• Addressing the lack of research information on family business.

Payroll tax

Since 2001 the Government has made substantial reductions in payroll tax rates and markedly

increased the payroll tax threshold. On 1 July 2009 the threshold was increased from $552,000

to $600,000 and the tax rate reduced to 4.95 per cent.

Effective Date Tax Rate (%) Threshold per Annum Threshold per Month

1 July 2002 5.67 $504,000 $42,000

1 July 2004 5.50 $504,000 $42,000

1 July 2007 5.25 $504,000 $42,000

1 July 2008 5.00 $552,000 $46,000

1 July 2009 4.95 $600,000 $50,000

Table 1 Payroll Tax Rates and Thresholds




Payroll tax continued

The Government has also actively participated in payroll tax reforms that simplify and harmonise

eight important areas of the payroll tax system across the country:

• Timing of lodgement

• Motor vehicle allowances

• Accommodation allowances

• A range of fringe benefits

• Work performed outside a jurisdiction

• Employee share acquisition schemes

• Superannuation contributions for non-working directors• Grouping of business.

With the commencement of South Australia’s Payroll Tax Act 2009 on 1 July 2009, South

Australia’s payroll tax legislation is aligned with those of New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania

and the Northern Territory.

Red-tape reduction

The State Government has identified and implemented initiatives to reduce the impact of

regulation on small businesses. The Government’s initial red-tape reduction program achieved

savings to business of $170 million. In April 2009 the Premier announced a second phase, in

which the Local Government Association and councils would contribute to a further $150 million

in red-tape savings to business over three years. A key factor in meeting this target will be a

rolling five-year review of all business regulation.

These reductions are among wider changes made by the State Government to improve the

State’s economic competitiveness.

Examples of red-tape reduction benefiting small business

Café and restaurant

There are about 950 cafés, restaurants and catering businesses in South Australia employing more than 13,500 people.More than 75 per cent of these businesses are small businesses employing fewer than 20 people.

Through a review process, the South Australian Government identified issues of concern to the café and restaurant industry.Key outcomes of government red-tape reduction in the sector are:

• Simplification and reduction in the number of forms and licenses associated with establishing and operating a caféor restaurant

• The production of a Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Restaurant, Café and Take-away Business developed by theDepartment of Trade and Economic Development with the industry.

Online business licensing

Registering a new business name in South Australia had the potential to be a time-consuming and frustrating process.However, owners and managers in the liquor and gambling industry faced an additional red-tape issue: people working forthem must be deemed ‘responsible’ and reaching that stage involved considerable paperwork on behalf of the licensee.

To accelerate the various business processes, the South Australian Government has developed a business portal that isinteractive and automated and will enable people registering new business names to complete their applications online,selecting names until one of them is accepted.

This web portal will also reduce problems for liquor and gambling businesses when they make ‘responsible person’applications. Licensees will be able to complete these applications online, while other features will allow them to viewand update information about their employees.

Users will be able to monitor the progress of their applications and emails will inform them when approvals have been granted.A business applying for a new business name or for ‘responsible persons’ will need to provide information only once for eachprocess. Businesses will also be recognised automatically when they make new applications or amendments.




Ask Just Once

The State Government is developing a single entry point, restructuring its service delivery around

the needs of its customers to deliver coordinated services. This initiative includes a new single

entry point website – www.sa.gov.au – which is being developed to improve online interaction with

government for small business.

The initiative is focused on delivering information and services that improve processes and help

businesses use online, self-service and lower-cost service delivery modes wherever practical.

The State Government recognises the needs of the small business community as a priority.

A team has been established to work with all government agencies and consult widelywith business representatives to deliver small-business related information and services in a

coordinated and logical way on the new website. This work is well underway and will be

completed next year.

The Single Entry Point initiative is part of a broader strategy that focuses the State Government’s

energy on the use of technology to transform the delivery of Government information and

services so that customers only have to Ask Just Once to obtain the help or answers they need

from government.

South Australian Centre for Innovation

Following extensive public consultation, the South Australian Government identified significant

gaps in the knowledge of small and medium businesses about where to access support and

affordable tools and services; fragmentation of and poor coordination between existing service

organisations; and a lack of awareness of issues that may affect their future competitiveness, such

as technical innovations, supply chain trends and market fluctuations.

In 2005, the Government established the South Australian Centre for Innovation (SACFI) to

provide an information hub that solves many of the issues outlined above. It links businesses

to appropriately skilled service providers such as universities and research organisations

and the private sector, and maintains an awareness-raising role on issues affecting the future

competitiveness of South Australian industries and businesses.

The SACFI provides:

• Innovation support through a range of advanced tools and techniques

• Commercialisation support for early-stage, high-potential companies

• Collaboration with universities and research institutions and private-sector service agencies

• Cultural change through awareness-raising and information brokering.

As recommended by the Economic Development Board, SACFI has merged with Venture Capital SA

to create an agency that can deliver more effective services to South Australian businesses.

With greater autonomy, increased resources and enhanced business management flexibility, the

“new” SACFI is well-positioned to work directly with industry and other stakeholders, building

on a foundation of industry engagement and program delivery to develop and promote innovative

thinking and technologies in the South Australian economy.




Small Business Month

Small Business Month (which was extended from Small Business Week in 2006) was a suggestion

from the Business Development Council. It has become an annual showcase of small-business

success and ingenuity supported and funded by the State Government.

The Small Business Month program includes events staged by independent organisations

(including industry bodies such as Business SA), BECs, RDA (SA) and small businesses.

The month of activities in metropolitan and regional areas recognises the critical importance of a

thriving small business sector to the health and well-being of the State and aims to build a sound

foundation for the small business community to become world-class enterprises.

A Small Business Forum, focusing on the theme of small business recovery and renewal, will be

held during South Australian Small Business Month 2009. The forum is a joint effort between the

State Government, Business SA and the Business Development Council.

Public consultation

During the development of the Small Business Statement , submissions were invited from

businesses, individuals and organisations (see Appendix 2) . The submissions called for government

assistance in a range of ways, including:

• support for small businesses in attracting, selecting and retaining appropriate staff

• assistance for small businesses through the process of applying for business funding

• payroll tax reductions

• use and promotion of the resources within the BEC network more effectively

• promotion of government services

• family business issues, particularly exit strategies and transition planning

• red-tape reductions

• a central place for compliance information.

The Government has taken note of the issues raised in the various submissions and this has

shaped the direction of the Small Business Statement . Many of the issues are already being

addressed by and through existing programs and services (see Appendix 3) .




Coorong WildSeafood

Glen and Tracy Hill

Coorong Wild Seafood embraces sustainability

The sustainable environmental policies of the local Lakes and Coorong Fishery have inspired

a seafood business in the region to adopt the same practices – at the same time improving

the quality and appeal of the fish it sells.

Coorong Wild Seafood owners and managers Glen and Tracy Hill have taken on the

challenge to improve their own methods and reduce their carbon footprint, introducing an

environmental management system for their fishing and processing businesses.

“Our fishery is in an important wetland in a national park,”Tracy says. “It’s also in a location

that has great cultural significance to the local people, so our business philosophy is driven

by a desire to be excellent stewards of the resource.

“In addition to responsible management, our aim is to optimise the value of the fish we catch.

“Glen and I have worked hard to find markets for everything we produce, including what

was previously considered waste product.”

Their decision followed the Lakes and Coorong Fishery – the community fishery in the waters

near their Meningie business – becoming the first multi-species fishery in Australia and only

the 27th in the world to earn certification from the international Marine Stewardship Council

for sustainable fisheries.

The business philosophy is not just affecting the environment, it’s also benefiting the

18-year-old company: Glen was named the Leading Seafood Producer in the 2009 South

Australian Seafood Awards.

Tracy says she and Glen continually seek ways to improve the business, with diversification

of product – including a smoked version of its flagship Coorong Mullet – an important factor.

“Work has also begun on a tourism component that will include audio-visual presentations,

product tastings, a viewing window into our processing facility and fishery tours,” she says.




A taste of Spain comes to Adelaide

A trip to Spain and Portugal was the inspiration for Georgie Rogers to fulfil a lifelong dream

of starting her own food business.

After months of planning, Georgie opened the doors to El Choto Fine Foods – a Spanish and

Portuguese-themed gourmet delicatessen – in August 2009.

“I’ve always wanted to work with food – it’s a real passion of mine and I love the interaction

you have with people,” Georgie says.

“When I returned from my overseas holiday I rang a Spanish and Portuguese food importer

and asked if they had a distributor in Adelaide. When they said no, I did a bit more research

and it soon became clear that it had great potential to be a viable business.”

After working as a retail manager at an Italian fine food providore for three years, Georgie

possessed many of the skills she needed to manage her business.

“In this industry I think the best training you can get is on the job. However, I did need help

with the business planning side,” Georgie says. “I wanted to make sure I did everything

right from day one, as the thought of it not working out as planned was very daunting.”

Georgie says her local Business Enterprise Centre provided valuable assistance with financial

and other planning aspects. The BEC also helped her find a suitable lawyer and accountant.

“My partner works part-time in the business with me and our goal is to eventually expand

the business,” Georgie says. “We’re hoping to host Spanish lessons and cooking lessons

here, which would be a lot of fun.

“It’s only early days but the feedback I’ve received so far has been very positive. One thing

that is proving invaluable to me is to constantly focus on the reasons I started the business

in the first place – I’m sure my passion and motivation will remain strong drivers for me to

continue building my business.”

El ChotoFine Foods

Georgie Rogers




Small businesses operate in a volatile marketplace, often competing with larger and

better resourced companies. In addition, they are more vulnerable to recessive economic

influences. They also face obstacles and challenges specific to their operations.

Actions, programs and services

Acknowledging these challenges, the Government has taken action to improve the environment

in which small businesses operate, by introducing a range of programs and services, to assist

small businesses to develop and grow in a fair and competitive business environment. To date,

significant steps have been taken to:

• Further reduce government red tape

• Reduce business costs and State Government taxes

• Build capacity through workforce development and skills training

• Offer targeted and tailored services that support specific needs

• Provide a “voice” for small business in developing Government policy

• Foster innovation and creativity

• Increase export capacity

• Respond to challenging economic circumstances.

Also of note is the approach taken by the Government in relation to industry association

collaboration. A range of activities – including skills training, tailored networking events,

professional development courses and learning and advisory services to industry associations

and their member companies and individuals – are directly or indirectly supported

by Government.

Support may come in various forms, such as direct grants, specific payments, partial funding

and in-kind support. The Government recognises that industry associations are closest to their

member company needs and will continue to support such efforts.

Specific Government programs and services to assist small businesses are listed in the

following section.

Current Government Support




Small Business

Information Line/

Business Licence

Information

Services (BLIS)

Business

Development Advice

Export Leadership

Assistance

Market Access

Program

TradeStart/New

Exporter Development

Program

LaSalle Matrix

Youth Ambassador

Program – Ye@

Department of Trade and Economic

Development (DTED) and Business

Enterprise Centre (BEC) and Regional

Development Australia (RDA)

The BLIS is available through the

BEC and RDA (SA) networks and

from the BLIS website:

www.bli.net.au

Free call: 1300 123 232


Development

www.southaustralia.biz

Telephone: 8303 2400


Development




Development




Development



SA Centre for Innovation

www.centreforinnovation.org.au


Department of Education and

Children Services

www.decs.sa.gov.au


Free call: 1800 088 158

Provides free advice and information and enables connection to

the nearest Business Enterprise Centre or Regional Development

Australia. Phone advice will cover issues critical to small

business, including:

• Start up Information

• Government grants/programs/initiatives

• Taxation requirements

• Marketing and planning

• Supplier problems

Also provides Business Licence Information Service (BLIS),

including start up information kits, licence overviews, bizfacts,

business plan templates, cash-flow management and

workshop information.

Free advice on product development and supply chain logistics.

Other assistance includes education forums, coaching and

networking, training in business plans, new technology and

management systems and building export capacity in

manufacturing and traded services. Specialist advisers assist

the following sectors:

• ICT and Electronics

• Automotive

• Manufacturing

• Water

• Services

Fosters leadership in export strategy planning, in-market

promotion, market knowledge sharing and mentoring.

Programs are provided with industry associations in key areas

such as food, wine, ICT/electronics, defence and services.

The ExportSA website delivers information and resources for

industry associations.

Assists small and medium enterprises to develop and increase

their export capabilities through reimbursement of up to 50% of

expenses used for export promotion activities.

A partnership between Austrade and DTED to provide services

to help small and medium-sized companies to develop their

business overseas and make their first export sales. TradeStart

officers can help prepare your company for international

markets by:

• advising on international marketing strategies;• offering feedback on promotional material;

• providing information about economic conditions and

commercial practices in target markets; and

• evaluating the suitability of a product or service within a

proposed target market.

Systematic methods to identify and evaluate new product and

service opportunities. Value proposition and the value chain.

Understanding markets and market risk.

Assists young entrepreneurs in gaining a greater understanding

of the export process. Each student chosen for the program is

required to develop an export project with a South Australian

company, with the assistance of an Export Champion.

Building Capacity for Small Business

Programs Description Contact Details




Young Indigenous

Entrepreneur Program

Commercial Marine

Qualifications

Office of the

Coordinator-General

eBiz SA

‘Starting a Business’

Website

Food Safety

InnovationDevelopment

Grant Program

Innovation Showcase

Program

Small Business

Development Grant

Assists young Indigenous people between the ages of 15 and 25

learn about establishing a business. The program offers practical

help, coaching and advice, and puts participants in touch with

other Indigenous people who are running successful businesses.

Provides advice to small businesses or individuals wishing to

progress their career in the maritime industry. The office works

to help business owners meet SA Government requirements and

their own business requirements as well as provides information

about staff issues and staff career progression.

The Office of the Coordinator-General provides a single point

of contact for the South Australian component of the $42 billion

Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan which will deliver

infrastructure in the areas of education, social housing, roadsafety, energy efficiency and community infrastructure.

Provides grants to BECs and RDA and industry associations to

assist in running workshops, seminars and technology expos

for their small business clients to increase the effective use of

emerging technologies, particularly online technologies, by

small businesses.

Provides a variety of information on all aspects of starting a new

business from registration and licensing through to marketing

and taxation.

Provides information and advice for people wishing to start a

food business and those already operating one, including:• Food Safety Information Kits

• Food Standards and Labelling

• Food Recalls

• Factsheets and bulletins

• Genetic Modifications

• Food Business Notification

• Food Safety Programs

Merit-based competitive grants to assist small to mediumbusinesses with developmental costs and/or to position

themselves to attract further investment (such as grants and

equity) that will lead to the commercialisation of innovative

products and services.

Organises South Australian businesses, including small and

medium businesses to visit best practice companies in South

Australia in a broad range of industries that have successfully

applied innovation to their processes, practices, products

or services.

Provides funding support on a dollar for dollar basis for eligible

expenditure to assist the creation of new jobs in innovative

manufacturing and technology/services projects and to enhance

the economic growth of the Southern Adelaide region.


Fostering Innovation and Creativity in Small Business



Development



Department for Transport, Energy

and Infrastructure

www.dtei.sa.gov.au/marine/quals



and Infrastructure

[email protected]

www.dtei.sa.gov.au/coordinator_general

Telephone: 1300 063 998

Department of Further Education,

Employment, Science and

Technology

www.informationeconomy.sa.gov.au


Service SA

www.sa.gov.au

Telephone: 13 23 24

Department of Health (SA Health)

www.health.sa.gov.auTelephone: 8226 6000

SA Centre for Innovationwww.centreforinnovation.org.au











Business Angel

Development

Techfast Program

Digital Tomorrow

Program

Productivity Places

Program (PPP)

Structural

Adjustment Program

Industry PartnershipProgram

‘User Choice’

Subsidies

The Traineeship

and Apprenticeship

Information Service

www.bioangels.org


www.saangels.com.au






Development

www.creativeSA.org




Technology

www.dfeest.sa.gov.au/ppp




Technology

www.dfeest.sa.gov.au/ppp


Department of Further Education,Employment, Science and

Technology

www.skills.sa.gov.au




Technology

www.employment.sa.gov.au

Free call: 1800 673 097



Technologywww.employment.sa.gov.au

Free call: 1800 673 097

The South Australian Centre for Innovation supports the

development of business angel groups in SA, in particular SA

Angels Inc and Bioangels Inc. Business angels provide financial

and mentoring support to entrepreneurial small businesses.

The South Australian Centre for Innovation funds the

Australian Institute for Commercialisation (AIC) to provide

detailed commercialisation support for small business to

access university Intellectual Property.

The program focuses on improving skills pathways, supporting

digital media start-ups and encouraging innovation by South

Australian digital media companies. It provides six projects

which will run until July 2012:

• Tomorrow Pathways

• Tomorrow Entrepreneur

• Tomorrow Worlds

• Tomorrow Studio

• Tomorrow Start, and

• Tomorrow IP

PPP is a jointly funded South Australian & Australian Government

initiative established to increase industry productivity by raising

the skill level of existing workers already in the workplace and

job seekers wishing to enter the workplace. The existing worker

component of the program is designed to address the skill

shortages being experienced by enterprises in industry sectors.

It provides up to 90% of funding for small businesses (who

provide the remaining 10%) to up skill their workers. Funding for

training is available to self-employed people and sole-traders.

Provides assistance to eligible workers who have been

retrenched due to downsizing, closure and restructuring.

Assistance includes career counselling, job search skills, up skill

training for future employment, self-employment or starting a

small business and individual case management.

Provides funding to industry bodies (including Industry SkillsBoards (ISBs)) to develop and implement projects that seek to

strengthen workforce development in their respective industry

sectors. ISBs can work in partnership with small business

operators in their respective industry sectors to develop and

implement projects that facilitate business development.

Subsidies are provided to apprenticeship and traineeship

training programs that have a User Choice funding agreement

with the Department of Further Education, Employment,

Science and Technology.

Small businesses can apply to employ a trainee or apprentice

through the Traineeship and Apprenticeship Information Service,

which provides information on the South Australian Traineeshipand Apprenticeship System.


Skilling Small Business for Growth





TAFE SA Government

Subsidised Training

Small businessworkshops, training

and coaching

programs

Growing Global

Companies Program

Building the

Workforce

Development

Capability of

SMEs Program

Venture Capital SA

programs

TAFE SA

www.tafe.sa.edu.au

Telephone: 1800 882 661

Department of Trade and EconomicDevelopment and Business

Enterprise Centre and Regional

Development Australia


Free call: 1300 123 232





Development



Venture Capital SA

www.vcsa.com.auTelephone: 8133 0700

The three TAFE SA Institutes have a strong focus on the

development of effective industry partnerships and each has a

business engagement strategy that includes small business.

This strategy includes:

• Establishing ‘Enterprise Advisory Groups’ to gather feedback

from employers on TAFE graduate skills levels, employment

demand within their industry and suggestions on training

needs

• Establishment of new Business Hotline number 1300 825 317

• Introducing new flexible ways of engaging enterprises

in training

• Establishment of Lead Centres to provide ‘one-stop’ avenues

of engagement for industry and business

Workshops and training courses for start-ups and establishedbusinesses to promote small business growth and profitability,

including:

• Starting Your Own Business;

• Planning for Your New Business;

• Better Business Series;

• Business Management Skills Development; and

• Business Owners Coaching Program

Helps fast-growing technology companies build global capacity

through entrepreneurial business skills training, export initiatives

and National iAwards training and intensive mentoring.

Program includes elements on:

• Managing Growth;

• Strategic Marketing;

• Organising for Success;

• Presentation & Media Training;

• Leadership in Action;

• Critical Success Factors for Growth; and

• 1 Page Plan

Designed to assist small to medium enterprises to be more

effective in recruiting, retaining and developing their workforce

to support their business. The program was developed in

collaboration with the Department of Further Education,

Employment, Science and Technology, the Office for the Ageing

and SafeWork SA.

Venture Capital SA is a part of the SA Centre for Innovation

helping small business become investor ready. Programs includea twice-yearly Investment Attraction course which includes

workshops and group mentoring.

The Equity Ready program includes workshops covering:

• Will Your Idea Work as a Business;

• Introduction to Venture Capital;

• Business Models;

• Building a Management Team; and

• Developing an Information Memorandum.

The Venture Capital SA seminar series covers topics:

• Create Value through your Intellectual Property;

• Market Research & Validation;

• Art & Science of Valuation;

• Understanding Due Diligence; and

• Termsheets & shareholder agreements.





Broadband

Awareness Training

Workshops

Joint Group

Training Program

Drought

Apprenticeship

Retention Program

Accreditation

Training for

Authorised Driving

Examiners

Allied and Scientific

Health Office

Central Services

Training

eProjects Panel

Electronic Lodgement

of Land Division

Applications

Online Lodgement of

Mining Returns

RevNet



Technology




Free call: 1800 673 097



Technology

Free call: 1800 673 097



and Infrastructure, Safety and

Regulation Division


Department of Health (SA Health)

www.health.sa.gov.au


Department of Premier and Cabinet

www.premcab.sa.gov.auTelephone: 8226 8900

Office of the

Chief Information Officer

www.cio.sa.gov.au


Department of Planning and

Local Government

www.planning.sa.gov.au


Department of Primary Industry

and Resources SA

www.pir.sa.gov.au/minerals


Department of Treasury

and Finance

www.treasury.sa.gov.au


Provides existing workers and job seekers the knowledge they

need to stay up to date with today’s online technologies. The

workshops involve face-to-face training regarding broadband

plans, use of broadband applications such as Voice-over Internet

Protocol and tele-working.

Provides a cost-efficient and administratively simple way for

small businesses to hire Australian Apprentices when this might

not otherwise be possible.

Provides assistance to employers in drought designated areas

to help retain their apprentices and trainees. Funding of $1,500

is available for each apprentice or trainee retained over a

12-month period and enrolled in selected qualifications.

Provides training courses for Motor Driving Instructors wishing

to become an Authorised Driver Licence Examiner.

Provides assistance and services to health professionals,

including:

• contact lists of health professionals

• Professional development courses

• Ongoing training, networking and information events, and

• links to research projects in South Australia

Provides training to remote Aboriginal communities, with a focus

on developing skills to manage and deliver central services inremote communities and includes basic business management

and planning skills, is provided to nine communities across APY

Lands in the State’s far North West.

An online procurement system to simplify the purchase of ICT

project services by government. It allows registered vendors to

electronically quote on projects up to $700,000 and contract to

undertake the work under standard terms and conditions.

Businesses can lodge their land division applications online at

the Planning SA website. This service is part of the Reducing the

Red Tape for Businesses initiative and aims to save businesses

resources and time.

Designed to streamline the assessments and approvals process

and improve efficiency.

An internet-based system that allows an easy, flexible and

more effective way to do business with RevenueSA. Business

operators can use RevNet to pay stamp duty, pay and update

land tax and emergency services levy certificates and register

and pay Pay-roll Tax online from the comfort of their own officeor home.


More Time for Business





e-ELF (Electronic

Licences Forms)

Business Helpline

EasyData

Consumer and

Business Affairs

Services

South Australian Food

Centre

Property Assist

Website

Environmental Protection Authority

www.epa.sa.gov.au


Telephone: 1800 623 445 (Metro only)

Inner West BEC

Helpline number: 1300 360 306


Development

www.southaustralia.biz/EasyData


Office of Consumer and

Business Affairs

www.ocba.sa.gov.au

Telephone: 1300 138 918

SA Food Centre

www.safoodcentre.com.au



and Infrastructure,

Land Services Division

www.propertyassist.sa.gov.au


Telephone: 1300 855 695

(Country Only)

A single access point for all Environmental Protection Agency

licences, allowing business to apply for new licences,

exemptions and authorisations, renew all licences, exemptions

and authorisations and pay for any licence based invoice.

A free telephone counselling service to small business owners

during times of difficulty and crisis to reduce the emotional and

financial distress of a business crisis or failure, and the number

and cost of business failures in South Australia. The service ismanaged on behalf of the Government by the Inner West BEC

with support from the Institute of Chartered Accountants, the

Australian Society of Certified Practicing Accountants and the

South Australian Law Society.

A new web-based data service detailing South Australian

economic, environmental and social indicators which gathers

publicly available data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics

and some previously unavailable information and can be used

by a wide variety of industry sectors and organisations.

Assists small business with numerous services in the areas of:

• Consumer affairs

• Business and occupational services

• Births, deaths and marriages• Tenancies, and

• Education and information services.

Also provides online services for small business:

• to check if a business is licensed in SA, and

• to process applications and renewals of business names

and to pay invoices.

Publishes a booklet entitled Open for Business , providing

a simple introduction to starting and operating a business in

South Australia.

A hub of expertise (business development facilitators, food

technologists and specialists) where small food business

operators can learn and develop their business. Small business

owners can get connected to the right people who will supportand facilitate them with business planning, products, packaging,

processing, safety, marketing, distribution and much more.

The Centre also provides access to modern processing facilities

and provides assistance to small business for market

development on both an international and interstate level.

Provides online access to land administration data products and

services which are necessary to process property transactions.

Also assists small businesses to manage their usage and

accounts on these sites.


Business Information and Advisory Services





Planning SA Online

Information

Aboriginal Heritage

Information Services

Family andBusiness Mentors

(FaB Mentors)

Plantation Forestry

Information

Mineral and Energy

Resources Services

DEH Information Line

Radiation ProtectionServices

Department of Planning and

Local Government

www.planning.sa.gov.au


Department of Premier

and Cabinet

www.premcab.sa.gov.au


SA Drought Hotline Free call: 180 20 20

Department of Primary Industries

and Resources SA

www.pir.sa.gov.au/forestry



and Resources SA

www.pir.sa.gov.au/minerals


Department for Environment

and Heritage

Information Line number: 8204 1910

Environment Protection Authoritywww.epa.sa.gov.au


Free call: 1800 623 445

(Non Metro Only)

Provides a range of online i nformation and search tools,

including:

• Online Heritage System

• SA Atlas

• Population Projections Enquiry System

• Retail and Industrial Databases

• Broad Acre Land Database and Reports, and

• Journey to Work System and Reports

Provides information and assistance about the existence and

location of Aboriginal sites, the determination of sites and issues

about the destruction of, or damage to, sites. Many of these

inquiries come from developers with small business interests.

Informal, friendly, local, confidential and free mentoringsupport to primary production businesses (families and

individuals) to assist them to make positive decisions about

their future.

Provides information to support the development of

agroforestry and carbon plantations for small businesses in

regional communities.

Provides assistance in the establishment of new business

activities that take advantage of developing markets under

emissions trading.

Provides assistance to small business through:

• training, workshops, lectures, community group

presentation and student work experience

• books, factsheets and publications on mining and geology

• specialised case management expertise to major mining

projects proceeding through government approvals processes

• advising projects on the approvals process, including

environmental responsibilities, native title issues and to

assist in helping inform the community on resource

exploration and mining.

A central contact point to answering general public enquiries

relating to Botanic Gardens, national parks, heritage, coast and

marine, environmental education, animal welfare, Aboriginal

partnerships, fauna permits, land management, biodiversity

conservation, publications, products and services.

The Radiation Protection Division of the Environment ProtectionAuthority provides small business with the following services:

• Use of the laboratory for equipment calibration and testing;

• Use of the laboratory and other facilities for training courses;

• Expert presentations to training courses;

• Taking small radioactive sources for storage in RPD facilities

when they are unable to safely store them;

• Advice on best practice operation; and

• Advice on development of radiation safety plans.





Land Management

Information and

Advice

South Australian

Legislation Website

Liquor, Gambling and

Lottery and Charity

Services

Fair Treatment forStaff & Customers

One-Stop-Shop

Accident Tow Truck

Register

Disabled Persons

Parking Permit for

Organisation

Delivery of services

in regional

South Australia

Department of Water, Land

and Biodiversity Conservation

www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au


Office of Parliamentary Counsel

www.legislation.sa.gov.au


Office of Liquor and

Gambling Commissioner

www.olgc.sa.gov.au


Equal Opportunity Commissionwww.eco.sa.gov.au


Telephone: 1800 188 163

(Country Only)


and Infrastructure

www.sa.gov.au



and Infrastructure

www.sa.gov.au



and Infrastructure

www.sa.gov.au

Telephone: 13 10 84

Service SA

www.sa.gov.au

Telephone: 13 23 24

Provides information and advice on the areas of:

• technical advice on the sustainable management and

condition of South Australia's agricultural lands and

rangelands, including soil information and management,

revegetation, dryland salinity, landcare and pest

animals and weeds

• land use mapping of South Australia's regional areas –

small business customers of the land use data include

private environmental consultancies and wineries

• soil and land information to indicate where special designs

may be needed to overcome soil conditions, and

• advice on development and post development land

management.

Provides copies of all current and some historical legislation and

up to date legislative information.

Provide information and advice to businesses in the liquor,

gaming, casino, wagering, lottery and charity industries in

South Australia with licence applications, compliance and

other related services.

Provides information and education to create a betterunderstanding of equal opportunity laws; assists small

businesses with the provision of information, resources

and telephone advice on their rights and responsibilities

aimed at reducing discrimination and harassment.

Provides specialised accreditation and licensing services for

businesses involved in hire cars and taxi licences and leases.

Provides advice to tow trucks about licences and manages the

roster for tow trucks to attend accidents in metropolitan area.

Provides a disabled persons parking permit for an organisation

that provides services, including transport services, to at least

four persons with a physical disability

Provides support to small business via provision of Office of

Business and Consumer Affairs services and information in Berri,

Gawler, Kadina, Mount Gambier, Murray Bridge, Naracoorte,

Port Augusta, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, and Whyalla.

These services include lodgement and receipting of:

• Applications for new occupational licence with ID check,

and photo

• Occupational licence renewals

• Various other licensing services such as change of address,change of directors replacement and surrender of licences

• Registration of a new business name

• Business name renewals


Business Licensing and Legislation





Aquaculture Leasing,

Zoning and Licensing

Audit of Food Safety

Programs

Family Day Care

Child Care

SafeWork SA Small

Business Strategy

Crime Prevention

Coordination Scheme

Animal Welfare

Legislation

Information and

Licences

Fauna Permits

Service SA

www.sa.gov.au

Telephone: 13 23 24


and Resources SA

www.pir.sa.gov.au/aquaculture


and Resources SA

www.pir.sa.gov.au/foodsafetyTelephone: 8463 3000


Children’s Services

www.decs.sa.gov.au

Free call: 1800 551 890


Children’s Services

www.decs.sa.gov.au

Free call: 1800 551 890

Department of Premier

and Cabinet, SafeWork SA

www.safework.sa.gov.au

Telephone: 1300 365 255

South Australia Police

www.watchsa.com.au


and Heritage

www.environment.sa.gov.au


Department for Environmentand Heritage



• Registration of auctioneers

• Lodgement of tenancy bonds

• Application for notice of change of public officer or change

of address for public officer

• Application to obtain ministerial consent for an association

• Application for deregistration of incorporated association

Assists small businesses through the zoning of aquaculture areas

and the creation and management of all aquaculture leases

within state waters. Also facilitates the licensing and

environmental monitoring of all aquaculture activities within SA.

Provides a ‘regulatory’ audit service to businesses within the

South Australian meat industry.

Provides establishment support to approved care providers by

actively recruiting, selecting and training them thus ensuring their

small business built on solid foundations. Also provides advice

on meeting legislative, regulatory, accreditation and licensing

requirements. Approved care providers are offered ongoing

training and development from DECS as well as administrative

support particularly in regard to Child Care Benefit (CCB).

Provides advice on meeting legislative, regulatory and licensing

requirements. Also provides online information designed to link

licensees and staff to information that may assist in carers to

provide quality early years education.

Provides advice and support services to assist employers in

complying with legal requirements relating to Occupational

Health and Safety (OHS), including:

• Free advisory services through SafeWork SA’s Help and

Early Intervention Centre

• The ‘Small Business Strategy’ focusing assistance

on industry groups with the highest number of workers

compensation claims in small business

• Information sessions to assist small business in complying

with OHS requirements

• Information products including ‘Serious About Safe Business’.

Assists small businesses in implementing crime prevention

strategies to prevent robberies and in increasing security and

educating employers & employees in personal safety, through• the ‘Armed Robbery Kit’

• the ‘Business Security Booklet’

• training of ‘Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design’

(CPTED)

• free CPTED audits, and

• Business Watch Program

Provides information to the community, businesses and

stakeholders (in particular those undertaking research and

teaching involving animals) regarding animal welfare legislation

and assists them to comply with this legislation. Also provides

licensing and conducts inspections of research arrangements and

funds RSPCA inspection services of other animal based activities.

Provides information and licensing services on native animals tothe community and businesses.





Commercial Tour

Operator Licensing

Heritage

Management Advice

Water licences

and permits

Clearance Control and

Pastoral Leases

Business

Sustainability

Alliance

Resource Efficiency

Assistance Program

(REAP)

Hot Water Installation

Standards

Environmental

Management

Services


and Heritage




and Heritage





www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au




www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au


Business Sustainability Alliance

www.southaustralia.biz/bsa




Telephone: 1800 623 445 (Country)

Zero Waste SA

www.zerowaste.sa.gov.au



and Infrastructure

www.dtei.sa.gov.au/energy


Environmental Protection Authority

www.epa.sa.gov.au

and SA Centre for Innovation


Issues and renews licences for commercial tour operators. The

department advocates and promotes the use of registered tour

operators through their website and information line.

Provides extensive advice regarding heritage sites to Councils,

planning authorities, owners and the general community

through publications and heritage conservation seminars and

the SA Heritage Places Database.

Provides information, advice and services, including:

• water licenses

• permits for all water affecting activities including well

permits, well drillers and water licenses, and

• salinity management advice.

Manages and assesses all native vegetation clearance

applications and manages pastoral leases ensuring that farmers

graze their sheep and cattle in a sustainable way without

permanently jeopardising the survival of native plants and animals.

A collaboration of agencies (DTED, Zero Waste SA, EPA and

SA Water) to provide services to businesses in the areas of

strategic planning, resource management, sustainability andclimate change, including;

• Resource Efficiency Assistance Program (REAP);

• Environment Improvers Program;

• Visual Environmental Management Systems;

• Lean Process Tools and Techniques;

• CleverGreen Series;

• Business Water Savers Program;

• BSA Executive Workshop Series; and

• Good Business Guide toolkit.

Assists industry to improve the management of waste, water

and energy flows. A strong emphasis is placed on building

organisational capacity and a business case for change.

The program is delivered in partnership with the BusinessSustainability Alliance.

An information service which provides advice, via printed

publications, telephone, internet and face to face support, to

plumbing businesses to help them comply with these new

greenhouse gas and water flow rate performance standards.

Provides services and useful tools assisting business with

environmental issues, including:

• Eco-mapping

• The Carbon Calculator, and

• ‘Greening the supply chain’


Greening Business





Sustainable 1000

Small Business

Program

Recycling @ Work

Advice and

Information

Recycling@ Work

grants program

InSkill SA

Interpreting and

Translating

Premier’s Food Awards

Water Transfer Fees

EC Interest Rate

Subsidies

Farm Debt Mediation

Zero Waste SA



Zero Waste SA



Zero Waste SA




Technology



Multicultural SA

www.multicultural.sa.gov.au



and Resources SA

www.safoodawards.com.au


Department of Water, Land and

Biodiversity Conservation

www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au



and Resources SA

www.pir.sa.gov.au/pirsa/drought

Free call: 1800 182 235


and Resources SA

www.pir.sa.gov.au/pirsa/droughtFree call: 1800 182 235

The Adelaide Sustainable 1000 project will be delivered in four

stages across South Australia, utilising a broad industry base of

small and medium size enterprises to deliver waste, water and

energy reduction outcomes guaranteed to improve individual

business profitability, the environment and better human and

social welfare.

The stages will target in sequence:

• Northern Adelaide (City of Salisbury and City of Playford,

Kangaroo Island) – completed

• Southern and Central Adelaide.

Helps businesses to reduce the amount of waste generated and

to introduce recycling systems at their work place.

Provides grants to encourage waste and recycling companies to

offer improved recycling collection services for Adelaide’s small

to medium businesses.

Having InSkill SA registration is a requirement of businesses

wanting to tender for SA Government contracts and associated

sub-contracts worth $250,000 or more. To facilita te InSkill

registration DFEEST offers a free service to potential

applicants for Government contracts, which includes support,

advice and guidance around InSkill Potential applicants.

Small businesses receive a Registration Certificate and an

InSkill registration number.

Provides high quality, confidential and professional interpreting

and translating services in approximately 112 languages and

dialects.

The Annual South Australian Premier’s Food Awards recognise

outstanding achievement and excellence in the South Australian

food industry. The event aims to profile, celebrate and showcase

the achievements of small business in the South Australian

food industry.

For River Murray Licence holders who buy in water allocation

for 2009-10 only to top up water access to a level that does

not exceed a volume equal to 1 kilolitre per Water Access

Entitlement share they hold or the maximum water allocation

they were authorised to use between 1 July 2006 and 30 June

2009. Benefit: $205 fees waived per application.

Interest rate subsidy to eligible farm businesses and small

businesses that are in financial difficulty due to the impact of

Exceptional Circumstances. Benefit: up to $100,000 per year.

For primary producers in drought affected areas, who need the

assistance of an independent mediator to negotiate with their

bank, after having followed the Farm Finance Strategy. Benefit:up to $2,000.


Supporting Small Business





Planning for

Recovery Grants

Irrigated Industry

Support Program

Rural Financial

Counselling

Community

counselling

Mental health support

Benefit: help & support

Regional Support

Centres

Farmer Peer

Support Network

Energy Consumer’s

Council

Remote Areas Energy

Supplies Scheme

Community Benefit SA


and Resources SA

www.pir.sa.gov.au/pirsa/drought

Free call: 1800 182 235

Riverland Response Centre

Free call: 1800 857 327

Rural Financial Counselling

Service SA

Free call: 1800 836 211

SA Drought Hotline

Free call: 180 20 20

Rural & Remote Mental

Health Services

Free call: 13 14 65

Berri 1800 857 327

Murray Bridge 08 8532 3198

Ceduna 0427 398 888

Clare 0488 145 124

Country Health

Stephen Toon

0488 936 474


and Infrastructure

www.dtei.sa.gov.au/ECC


and Infrastructure

www.dtei.sa.gov.au/energy


Department for Families

and Communities

www.dfc.sa.gov.au


For those in receipt of EC interest rate subsidies. Up to $4,000 for

expert support in preparing a farm drought recovery plan, up to

$10,000 for immediate eligible projects of their plan. Applications

received up until 27 November 2009. Benefit: up to $14,000

Reimbursement Grants to viable farm businesses that choose

to purchase water allocations for Critical Survival Needs of

permanent plantings in the River Murray corridor.

Benefit: up to $260 per megalitre for water allocations

purchased between 1 July 2009 and 28 Feb 2010

The Rural Financial Counselling Service SA provides free,

confidential rural financial referral and support services to

primary producers, fishers and small rural businesses.

Benefit: a free service

Rural community counsellors provide confidential counselling

services to community members directly affected by the drought.

The service provides basic mental health capacity building to

take care of social and emotional well being.

Benefit: free help and support

A 24-hour emergency assistance and information service staffed

by experienced mental health nursing staff, with services and

tools to assist farmers and irrigators managing their businesses

and coping with stress. Please note that this an emergency

assistance number only.

One port of call for regional drought enquiries and support

including: Regional Drought Coordinators, Rural Financial

Counselling Service, Country Health SA and Division of General

Practice. Benefit: access to drought support

A program to assist farmers and key community members to

provide supportive and mentoring roles to others in their region,

whomay be feelingthe stresses and strainsof thecurrent drought.

Comprises representatives from businesses and the SA

community who provide government with feedback and

high-level advice on energy policy issues such as pricing and the

reliability of supplies and services, within the SA energy sector.

The Council was created to give all categories of consumers in

SA the opportunity to have a real and practical input into energy

policy development. Small business interests are promotedby council representatives from the State Retailers’ Association,

Business SA and the South Australian Farmers’ Federation.

Provides subsidised energy to residents and businesses in

thirteen remote off-grid townships in South Australia where

provisions of energy would not otherwise be commercially

viable. Approximately 65% of these subsidises are attributed

to commercial or small business customers.

Provides assistance to non-government, non-profit incorporated

community service organisations for community development to

assist disadvantaged individuals, families and communities.

The program welcomes partnerships with a broad range of

stakeholders including small business, to achieve common aims

and supports business orientated social enterprises.





Maps and aerial

imagery products

Women’s Information

Service


and Heritage



Office for Women

www.officeforwomen.sa.gov.au


Provides a wide range of standard map and aerial imagery

products over the state of South Australia for the general public

and the business community. These products may assist small

business as they show property boundaries, topographic data

and aerial imagery, which are available from Mapland, the retail

outlet for the Department for Environment and Heritage.

Assists and supports women towards financial security and

independence as well as providing education, training and

guidance on career pathways.





Sea change proves to be the right change

When Mark and Sharon Haydon purchased the Port Vincent Seaside Caravan Park they

faced a daunting task.

One of two caravan parks in Yorke Peninsula’s Port Vincent, the business was far from

booming – and having spent his entire working life as a farmer, Mark had no formal

experience in the tourism industry.

However, Mark and Sharon embraced the challenge; three years later, things have never

been better for the couple and their young family.

Occupancy rates at the park are three times what they were when Mark and Sharon took

over and business is continuing to grow.

“When it became clear that the drought was going to have long-term impacts on the farming

industry, we decided to buy the caravan park,” Mark says. “It was something we had noexperience in but it has certainly exceeded all our expectations.”

Mark says they quickly decided to transform the park to differentiate it from the competition.

“We completely re-fitted all of the old cabins and built seven new ones, so the park now

offers four different cabin options to cater for everyone’s needs,” he says. “We’ve also

introduced other initiatives such as a ‘tradies rate’ to target tradesmen, as there’s currently a

lot of construction in the area.”

Mark and Sharon and their three children live and breathe the business, with a cleaner the

park’s only other employee.

“It’s been a lot of hard work and the Regional Development Board has given us a lot ofhelp and advice,” Mark says. “We’re certainly seeing the results – including a lot of repeat

business. People are coming back because they like what we offer.”

Port Vincent Seaside

Caravan Park Mark and Sharon Haydon




The Small Business Statement outlines and confirms the South Australian Government’s

commitment to small business and small businesses in the State.

In its Economic Statement of March 2009, the Economic Development Board expressed its

confidence in the State and a bright economic future ahead.

Small business undoubtedly can contribute to and share the rewards of this future.

However, much work must be done in the coming years for the State to fulfil this vision and to

create the success that the Board and other commentators have predicted.

Opportunities do exist for innovative, forward-thinking, smart businesses and the people whoown and work within them. Major local and international investment in infrastructure and projects

within the mining, defence and other industries – as well as developments underway or planned

through the Australian Government’s stimulus packages – will create many more opportunities.

In addition, exporters of high-quality products and services will benefit when the global

economy recovers.

The challenge for South Australian small businesses is to think, plan and work cleverly and

imaginatively, to ensure they are ready and capable to capitalise on these opportunities.

With the support and assistance of the State Government, a dynamic and sustainable future

for small business in South Australia is assured.

Looking to the Future




A Vision for Small Business

Innovative South Australian businessmen and women have seized on the opportunities

created by:

• collaboration between industry and government

• unprecedented levels of infrastructure investment

• increasing use of online business and marketing methods.

Small businesses crucial to the State’s global reputation and ongoing prosperity are thriving.Business investment and population growth have stimulated the economy and increased the

options for people looking to start small businesses in the State.

The diversity of the South Australian economy is clearly evident.

Building on South Australia’s established strengths in defence, mining, wine, agriculture,

seafood and manufacturing, small businesses have emerged and succeeded in other

sectors including knowledge-intensive services, advanced and niche manufacturing, clean

technologies and resource-related services.

These growth areas are now mainstays of the South Australian economy.

Universities and private and government research laboratories contribute to thedevelopment of world-leading research and technology, while a skilled workforce provides

the backbone to economic growth. The State’s educational institutions work closely with

industry to develop and maintain this workforce, and create globally competitive goods

and processes that support small business endeavours.

Commercialisation and venture-capital financing of innovative concepts have boosted

our standing on the world stage. South Australia’s economy is linked to global markets that

thrive on knowledge-driven and value-added products and services.

South Australia is recognised internationally as a forward-thinking economy that

understands the importance of the internet in building successful businesses and markets –

and uses it to expand national and international sales.

Individual businesses, government agencies and industry groups – supported by the

Australian Government’s national broadband network – have developed quick and efficient

methods to help imaginative small-business operators expand their businesses.

South Australia now has a higher per-capita share of the nation’s home-based e-commerce

entrepreneurs – people of all ages, backgrounds and skill sets among them – winning

business in the global community.

Small businesses continue to demonstrate their role in a growing economy, and ensure

South Australia is a vibrant, dynamic and prosperous place in which to live, work and play.

THIS VISION FOR SMALL BUSINESS IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA SHOWS HOW THE SECTOR

COULD OPERATE IN THE NEAR FUTURE AS A RESULT OF THE EFFORTS AND COMMITMENT

OF THE STATE’S SMALL BUSI NESSES, THE SECTORS IN WHICH THEY WORK AND THE

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT.




BUSINESS HELP LINE 1300 360 306

Business Enterprise Centre Network

Eastside BEC

Unit 2, 294 Payneham Road

PAYNEHAM SA 5070

PO Box 4017 Norwood Sth 5067T 8132 0377 F 8132 0985

Email: [email protected]

Southern Success BEC

5/209 Main South Road

PO Box 175

MORPHETT VALE SA 5162

T 8326 6511 F 8326 6922


Inner West BEC

Adelaide University Research Park

Ground Floor,

30-32 Stirling Street

THEBARTON SA 5031

T 8159 8700 F 8159 8711


North West Business Development Centre

6 Todd Street

PORT ADELAIDE SA 5015

T 8440 2440 F 8440 2401


Enterprise Adelaide

25 Pirie Street, Adelaide SA 5000

GPO Box 2252, Adelaide SA 5001

T 8203 7815 F 8203 7575


APPENDIX 1

Inner Southern BEC

903b South Road

CLARENCE GARDENS SA 5039

T 8351 0227 F 8351 0340Email: [email protected]

Northern Adelaide BEC

PLAYFORD Business Centre

95 Womma Road

ELIZ.WEST SA 5113

T 8256 0900 F 8256 0999


Tea Tree Gully BEC

North East Development Agency

114 Tolley Rd

ST AGNES SA 5097

T 8397 9555 F 8397 9599


Salisbury Business & Export Centre

Innovation House West, Technology PkMAWSON LAKES SA 5095

T 8260 8205 F 8260 8206





Call for Public Submissions

Public and industry feedback is invaluable to the State Government as a guide to the direction its

takes in policy initiatives. As part of the development of the Small Business Statement , the Hon

Paul Holloway, Minister for Small Business, sought comments and feedback from small business,

business groups and industry associations in relation to current and emerging issues for small

business and what the Government could do to assist.

In January 2009, advertisements calling for submissions were placed in metropolitan and country

newspapers. Ultimately, 119 suggestions were received from the 46 individuals and organisations

listed below.

We thank all those who took the time to prepare submissions. They have provided avenues to

explore in the ongoing pursuit to improve support and services for small businesses in the short

and long-term.

Business SA

Motor Traders Association SA

Enterprise Adelaide, Adelaide City Council

Inner Southern BEC

Inner West BEC

North West Business Development Centre (BEC)

Christopher Rankin, Air Conditioning Mechanical

Contractors Association

Electronics and ICT Association

Farmers Federation

Naomi Gleeson, Murraylands Enterprise Estate

Industry Group

Andrew Clarke, Plumbers Industry

Association of SA

Peter Mansfield, Printing Association

Lindsay Loud, Small Business Owner

Maxine Borchardt, Small Business Owner

Michael De Nieuwe, Small Business Owner

Malcolm NcNicol, Small Business Owner

Lance Otto, Small Business Owner

Janet Craig, Small Business Owner

Les Berry, Small Business Owner

Greg Sheridan, Small Business OwnerPeter Morelli, Small Business Owner

Noura Thiele, Small Business Owner

Janelle Pansini, Small Business Owner

Sally Neville, Restaurant Catering SA

Quentin Moore, Small Business Owner

John Brownsea, State Retailers Association

Brian Smedley, SA Wine Industry Association

Professor Peter Høj, UniSA

Anthony Francis, Flinders University

Langdon Blight, CPA

Steven Esca, Business Owner

Kevin Liddiard, Small Business Owner

Diana Frankcom, Business Owner

Serina Pace, Small Business Owner

Wayne Nelson, Small Business Owner

Andrew Rushworth, Small Business Owner

Peter Jans, Small Business Owner

Lindsay Cope, Small Business Owner

Brian Guthleben, Small Business Owner

Barrie Pinder, Small Business Owner

David Mifsud, Small Business Owner

Darren and Joan Hill, Small Business Owner

Bridget Hogg, Small Business Owner

Stuart McKay, Small Business Owner

Alison Sadler, Small Business OwnerPatrick Comerford, Small Business Owner

APPENDIX 2



SMALL BUSINESS STATEMENT

Summary of issues from public submissions

Submissions have been summarised under four headings:

1 Assistance for small business

2 The economic environment for small business

3 Training and skills development

4 Legislation and regulations.

1 Assistance for small business

Submissions suggested the following:

• Hold a small business summit/roundtable.

• Focus on policies and programs that promote productivity and innovation in service industries.

• Provide greater opportunities for small business in government procurement and

tendering processes.

• Subsidised access to specialist professional services (legal, accounting, etc).

• Improve access to and support for small businesses seeking funding.

•Improve links between small businesses and universities in the development of

new technologies.

• Assistance in coping with environmental issues through the Business Sustainability Alliance,

a collaboration of agencies to provide services to businesses related to sustainability, climate

change and a carbon-constrained environment.

Services and resources currently available

• Hold a small business summit/roundtable.

This will be actioned in the form of a Small Business Forum, focusing on the theme of

small-business recovery and renewal, to be held during South Australian Small Business

Month in October 2009.

• Provide support for small businesses in attracting, selecting and retaining appropriate staff.This topic is covered in the Building Business Capability in Workforce Development,

Better Business Series, Business Management Skills Development and Business Owners’

Coaching programs.

• Assist small businesses through the process of applying for business funding.

This service is already available through the BEC and RDA (SA) network.

• Introduce a Small Business Innovation Fund.

This is already available through SACFI’s Innovation Development Grant and Small Business

Development Grant.


APPENDIX 3



2 The economic environment for small business


• Reduce WorkCover rates in general, and on apprentices.

• Simplify OHS&W licence processes and costs.

• Provide tax concessions (financial incentives) for businesses providing energy-efficient services.


• Reduce payroll tax.Threshold increased and rate reduced.

3 Training and skills development


• Support and promote training and skills development programs.

• Develop business language and interpretation programs for business migrants.

• Streamline the booking systems for attendance at workshops.

• Review the topics covered by the BBS and BMSD programs on a regular basis, with

participation from the BEC network.

• Resource the BEC network to run Small Business Expo during Small Business Month.

• Encourage greater cooperation and collaboration among all government departments

providing service for and interacting with small business.

• Develop the means of offering small business owners a personal development path,

leading to improved business management performance.

• Increase access to small business training in regional areas.

• Training for intending business owners, including access to those intending to start a

business through OCBA, Local Government, etc.

• Improve access to training for apprentices in regional areas.

• Promote the available service.

• Add climate change and environmental issues to the current list of training topics.

• Incentives to employ apprentices, and a subsidy for adult apprentices.

Service and resources currently available

• Utilise and promote the resources within the BEC network more effectively.

Work is being done in this area, based on the recognition of BEC and RDA (SA) networks as

important support for small business.

• Address family business issues (particularly exit strategies and transition planning).

Course has been developed, and presented, for family business personnel and advisers.




4 Legislation and Regulations


• Greater licensing and enforcement in the trades.

• Simplify business registration procedures.


• Reduce red tape.

Red-tape reduction program achieved initial savings of $170 million, and a second programwas announced in April 2009.

• Develop a central place for compliance information.

The Business Licence Information Service is available through all BECs.





FURTHER INFORMATION

Further information to assist small business

can be obtained from the

Department of Trade and Economic Development.


Enquiries can be directed to:

Ms Georgina Chandler

Executive Officer, Business Development Council

Office of Small Business and Regional Development

Department of Trade and Economic Development

GPO Box 1264

Adelaide, South Australia 5001

Telephone: +61 (8) 8303 2014

Fax: +61 (8) 8303 2350


the south australian small business statement

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