The Turnbull Government today announced funding of $18 million towards a new Australia-wide program helping family and small businesses build their digital capability.
Minister for Small and Family Business, the Workplace and Deregulation Craig Laundy said businesses would have access to high-quality advice from proven providers for a minimal fee.
“The Australian Government is investing in small businesses to help them create jobs, harness opportunities and grow in the digital economy, with a major focus on regional areas,” Minister Laundy said.
“Research shows small businesses that are digitally engaged are more likely to grow their revenue and up to eight times more likely to create new jobs.”
Federal Member for Forde Bert van Manen MP said it was fantastic small businesses in his electorate of Forde would benefit from services that have been tailor made to suit their individual needs.
“This is great news for businesses in Forde potentially struggling to adopt new technology, which is so important to help grow their business,” Mr van Manen said.
“Online platforms will make it easier for them to join forces with others offering complementary products or services so they can reach new customers and open up new markets by expanding their business presence beyond their local community.”
Mr Laundy said the funding was being provided through the Australian Small Business Advisory Services (ASBAS) – a long running program now being re-booted to focus on building digital capabilities.
ASBAS Digital Solutions will offer easy to understand advice to help small businesses grow, including advice on websites and selling online, harnessing social media and digital marketing, using small business software and the importance of online security and data privacy.
Services will be delivered in ways to suit each business, including: one-on-one support delivered directly, remotely online, or by phone; interactive webinars; and face-to-face workshops. ASBAS Digital Solutions will fill a gap by offering small businesses low-cost and easy to understand advice on a range of digital solutions to meet their business needs.
ASBAS Digital Solutions: grant amount and coverage area
| Area | 2017–18 | 2018–19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 | TOTAL |
| Penrith City and District Business Advisory Centre Limited (NSW/ACT) | $1.02 million | $2.00 million | $2.07 million | $1.00 million | $6.09 million |
| Business Station Incorporated (QLD/NT/WA) | $1.00 million | $1.78 million | $2.00 million | $0.90 million | $5.68 million |
| Darebin Enterprise Centre Limited
(SA/VIC/TAS) |
$1.07 million | $2.01 million | $2.16 million | $1.01 million | $6.25 million |
