November 2025 Update from the Commission

In the midst of the final stretch of 2025, many small businesses are busy meeting the needs of customers who are keen to get things done before they take a break over the Summer holiday period. This month’s update brings together several important developments that will directly affect how small businesses operate, from financial safeguards and workforce obligations to sustainability reforms and accessibility in retail. When you have an opportunity, please check your systems, review processes and make sure you’re prepared for what’s coming next. 

Feature Articles

Retailers urged to prepare for spike in scams during the Black Friday sales and Christmas period

With many retailers offering Black Friday sales and Christmas around the corner, the NSW Small Business Commissioner is urging retailers to stay alert to a seasonal spike in online scams. Scamwatch has reported increasingly sophisticated tactics, including fake online stores, AI-generated ads, counterfeit discount codes and phishing messages designed to steal payment or login details. 

Retailers should remind staff and customers to be cautious of “too good to be true” offers, pressure tactics such as countdown timers, and unexpected messages claiming to be from delivery partners or major retailers. Unusual payment requests, such as gift cards or cryptocurrency, remain strong indicators of scam activity. 

To help businesses stay secure, the Commission provides free cyber security guidance and webinars, with additional support available from Scamwatch, CyberWardens, IDCARE and the Australian Cyber Security Centre. Strengthening systems, training staff and verifying unfamiliar websites or suppliers can help businesses stay safe during the busy holiday period.

Link to Article: Retailers urged to prepare for spike in scams ahead of Black Friday and Christmas | NSW Small Business Commissioner

What is the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR)?

One of the key topics this month is the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR). Many small businesses still aren’t aware of how powerful this tool can be in protecting their goods, equipment and cash flow. Whether you sell on retention-of-title terms, hire out equipment, or buy second-hand assets, the PPSR helps you safeguard your property and avoid costly risks. With registrations starting from just $6, businesses can strengthen their position if a customer becomes insolvent or if assets have finance owing. This edition walks through real examples of how PPSR searches and registrations can help prevent loss and keep your business protected. 

Link to Article: Personal Property Securities Register: find out how the PPSR can protect your small business | NSW Small Business Commissioner

New “Payday Super” reform starting 1 July 2026 

We also look at the upcoming “Payday Super” reforms, commencing 1 July 2026. These changes will require employers to pay superannuation at the same time as wages. While the ATO has communicated they intend to take a measured compliance approach during the first 12 months, now is the ideal time for businesses to review payroll systems, confirm fund details and consider process automation. With the Small Business Superannuation Clearing House entering a transition period from late 2025, the newsletter outlines what employers need to know and how to prepare early. 

Link to Article: Approved for publication (attached)

Small Business – Simplified Debt Restructuring 

Financial pressures continue to be a concern for many small businesses, so this month we also highlight the simplified restructuring and simplified liquidation processes introduced in 2021. These options offer incorporated businesses a faster, more affordable way to either regain stability or wind up operations when needed. With the ATO playing a decisive role in many restructuring plans, understanding the eligibility criteria and key considerations can make a meaningful difference for businesses exploring their options. This edition provides a clear overview of both processes, including how they work, who can access them and where to seek professional advice. 

Article Link: (not published – pending approval) 

Simplified insolvency article_NOV 2025.docx

NSW plastics ban: what small businesses need to know between now and 2026

Looking ahead, we explore the next phase of the NSW plastics ban as the EPA progresses work on the Plastics Plan 2.0. While many changes are still under development, several proposed reforms, such as redesigned takeaway packaging, reusable cup requirements and the phase-out of certain plastic components, may significantly shape the operating environment for retailers, cafés, hospitality venues and suppliers. Understanding what’s confirmed and what may be coming will help businesses manage stock, plan for transition costs and engage proactively with suppliers. Our guidance this month outlines practical steps small businesses can take now to reduce disruption in the years ahead. 

Link to Article: NSW plastics ban: what small businesses need to know between now and 2026 | NSW Small Business Commissioner

Disability discrimination in goods and services project

Finally, we spotlight emerging findings from Anti-Discrimination NSW’s project on disability discrimination in goods and services. The insights, drawn from more than 100 participants including people with disability, carers and professionals, highlight the need for more accessible and inclusive retail environments. The project’s early recommendations aim to support retailers with practical improvements, staff training and greater awareness of accessibility barriers. This work underlines the importance of inclusive design and customer experience across NSW’s diverse retail landscape. 

Link to Website: Disability discrimination in goods and services project | Anti-Discrimination NSW

Momentum Survey

The October Momentum Survey is now available. It shows that small business confidence rose slightly to 29 per cent in October, the first increase in three months, although overall sentiment remains subdued. The Momentum Index climbed sharply to a record high of 114.1, an 11-point rise, driven by stronger business investment and staffing intentions. Despite this uplift, businesses continue to face persistent pressures, including rising input costs, uneven customer demand, compliance burdens and cash flow challenges. Expectations for near-term profitability softened, with only 14 per cent forecasting improvement, while revenue expectations also eased. 

To register your interest in participating in the Momentum Survey, visit here.  

To receive the monthly Momentum Survey Reports, register here.