Small businesses across NSW can access fee-free, expert support starting today, as the Minns Labor Government officially launches the upgraded $37 million Small Business Advisory Program.
Delivered through the Service NSW Business Bureau, the new program offers tailored, real-world guidance built directly on feedback from more than 3,000 business owners, peak bodies, business chambers and Councils state-wide following a major review led by prominent entrepreneur Mark Bouris AM.
The new fee-free service will offer flexible digital, phone and face-to-face support, ranging from AI adoption and customer acquisition to cash-flow strategy and financial health checks.
Available immediately, the first phase of the program will give business owners direct access to:
- Free 1-on-1 advisory services covering core business essentials
- Dedicated support for multicultural business owners
- Events, workshops and networking opportunities to strengthen business capability and connections, as well as online resources.
Business owners will be able to access up to four hours of free, personalised advisory sessions for core business skills support. The program is anticipated to provide NSW small businesses with access to up to 11,325 hours of one-on-one business advice in its first six months.
The second phase of the program, launching in late February, will include:
- Specialist Industry Advice: Focused, practical guidance for high-demand sectors, including construction and hospitality.
- Targeted Sector Programs: Dedicated support for Aboriginal, and women-led businesses facing unique local challenges.
- In-Person Connection: Local workshops, events, and networking opportunities to build local business capability and connections.
- Next-Gen AI Tools: A range of smart digital tools to be phased over the 4-year program to help business owners run quick health checks and match instantly with tailored support.
To find out more about the program and services available go to service.nsw.gov.au/business
The rollout of Small Business Advisory forms part of the Minns Labor Government's broader agenda to provide practical widespread relief that supports the entire business community during current national economic challenges.
NSW continues to lead the country in business creation, recording a net increase of more than 200,000 new businesses since the election of the Minns Government and leading the nation in economic growth and private investment.
Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:
"Small businesses are the backbone of the NSW economy. They power our local communities, employ millions of people and keep our state moving forward.
"We are ensuring our small business sector has access to high-quality, fee-free support to grow and truly thrive in today's changing economic landscape."
Minister for Small Business Janelle Saffin said:
"Small business owners are some of the hardest working people in NSW, and navigating regulations, adopting new tech, and managing growth are the perennial challenges of running small business.
"Support of this nature recognises the contribution that they make to the NSW economy and the community and it recognises their role.
"By integrating this advisory support into the Service NSW Business Bureau, we're providing one front door for business owners. Whether you're a tradie in Dubbo, a cafe owner in Parramatta, or a tech startup in Tamworth, expert help is now just a phone call, click, or quick visit away."
Mark Bouris AM said:
"We engaged with more than 3,000 small business owners and stakeholders across the state and they gave us a clear mandate: provide practical, trusted advice from people who actually know what it takes to run a business.
"This upgraded service does exactly that.
"It drops the bureaucracy and delivers real-world strategies - from mastering financial literacy and cash flow to harnessing AI - giving Aussie business owners the competitive edge they deserve."
NSW Small Business Commissioner Kalina Koloff said:
"Across the state, I've heard directly from small business owners who are eager to take the next step with their business but often need the right support, advice and guidance. The Small Business Advisory Program will be instrumental in helping small businesses realise their ambitions, strengthen their resilience, and continue creating jobs, opportunities and vibrant communities throughout NSW.
"As NSW Small Business Commissioner, I am delighted that small business owners will now have access to this valuable support, empowering them to achieve their full potential and build stronger businesses for the future."
