Latest update from the Commission

As 2026 progresses, small businesses across NSW continue to navigate a demanding operating environment. Rising fuel costs and interest rates, evolving regulatory requirements and increasing digital risks are placing heightened pressure on business confidence and day‑to‑day decision making. At the same time, small businesses continue to demonstrate adaptability and determination in responding to these challenges. 

The Commission welcomes recent temporary measures introduced to assist businesses with the ATO’s introduction of a fuel response payment plan and the temporary reduction to the levy for the Community Services Portable Long Service Leave Scheme.  These measures provide timely relief and additional flexibility for eligible businesses who are managing increased cost pressures. 

From 1 July 2026 thousands of small businesses across NSW will be subject to reforms to Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing laws. Understanding these obligations early can help businesses reduce compliance costs, avoid penalties and strengthen protections.  In addition, the Commission continues to raise awareness of the increasing prevalence of relationship scams, encouraging businesses to take practical steps to reduce risk, including verifying identities, limiting the sharing of financial information and maintaining strong cyber security practices.  If someone has stolen your identity or you suspect that your identity may have been wrongfully accessed, we encourage you to contact ID Support NSW who can provide support.  

Alongside these important updates, the Commission continues to celebrate the achievements of small businesses across NSW. Stories like the growth of French Rose Patisserie highlight the innovation, creativity and determination that help drive the state’s small business community forward. 

With the 2026 Federal Budget released last night, keep a look out for our news article on measures that impact small businesses. It will be released very soon.