Latest update from the Commission

Many small businesses across NSW continue to operate in a complex and evolving environment. Global instability and supply chain disruptions, cost pressures, infrastructure disruptions and regulatory reform are all influencing day-to-day decisions and longer term planning.

The Commission’s most recent Small Business Momentum Survey (March 2026) shows confidence levels significantly declined across NSW, falling by nine percentage points to 22 per cent. Confidence remains subdued amid challenging trading conditions and continued economic uncertainty. New challenges in March such as fuel costs and supply disruptions continue to weigh heavily on small business. We have summarised some basic tips each small business can take to assist with operating in the current challenging environment. 

In addition to fuel costs, transport access is currently a major concern for businesses in the Blue Mountains and Central West. The ongoing closure and detour of a section of the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass has disrupted freight movements, customer travel and staff access. 

During March and early April, the NSW Small Business Commissioner met stakeholders from across the Blue Mountains and the Central West to understand the impacts of the closure and ensure small business insights are informing transport planning and the business and community response. 

For the most up-to-date information on detours, public transport and latest announcements, visit Transport for NSW. Co-ordinated marketing and other supports have also been announced by Destination NSW.

With ANZAC Day approaching small businesses should plan ahead and confirm how public holiday trading rules apply to their business. Some retail businesses may be required to close on restricted trading days, while others may be exempt depending on their size or industry. It is also important to review staffing arrangements, ensure employees are correctly paid public holiday rates, and communicate clearly with staff and customers about any changes to trading hours.

In other news, the NSW Government has announced that it will provide a new advisory service for small businesses, informed by a 90-day review which is being led by entrepreneur, Mark Bouris, with support from the Service NSW Business Bureau. The service will provide specialist advice to help small business owners build practical skills to run and grow their business. We know how important the former Business Connect service was to many small businesses across NSW, and we encourage you to have your say on the key supports the new advisory service should include

Looking further ahead, regulatory change may impact some small businesses. Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing laws will expand in 2026 to cover certain professional and property related services. While these reforms won’t affect every business, early awareness is essential for those that are captured.  

Businesses that are captured will need to enrol with AUSTRAC from March 2026, with new obligations commencing on 1 July 2026. While this represents a change for many small businesses, early awareness and preparation can help minimise disruption. If you are unsure about the changes, we encourage you to contact AUSTRAC to determine if you are required to enrol and better understand their obligations and requirements. Professional bodies are also a source of support for their members implementing changes in response to these reforms. 

We also highlight a small business story that reflects the importance of sustainable growth - demonstrating how the right mix of skills, partnerships and support can help businesses build resilience over time.