The Albanese Government has appointed Ms Lynda McAlary‑Smith as the next Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman.
A qualified lawyer, with experience working with businesses across Australia and with all levels of government, Ms McAlary‑Smith brings extensive experience to her new position.
Over the five year term, Ms McAlary‑Smith will advocate for and assist small businesses and family enterprises, including by providing dispute resolution support and low‑cost legal advice, especially in cases involving industry codes or commercial disputes.
Minister for Small Business Dr Anne Aly congratulated Ms McAlary‑Smith on her appointment and thanked outgoing Ombudsman, the Hon Bruce Billson, for his service.
"With more than 800,000 new small businesses since May 2022, it's obvious that Australia is a great place to start and grow a small business," said Dr Aly.
"The Ombudsman plays an important role in helping us to ensure small businesses have the conditions they need to not only get off the ground but to thrive.
"Ms McAlary‑Smith will be a strong advocate for the more than 2.6 million small businesses and family enterprises right across Australia.
"I also thank outgoing Ombudsman, the Hon Bruce Billson, for his significant contributions to the small and family business community and for his strong advocacy on their behalf."
Ms McAlary‑Smith, the current Victorian Small Business Commissioner, will start as the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman on 11 March 2026.
