- Saturday, 25 October is WA Small Business Day
- WA community encouraged to shop small and buy local
- Small businesses make a critical contribution to diversifying the Western Australian economy and supporting communities throughout the State
Western Australians are encouraged to pay a visit to their local small businesses this Saturday for WA Small Business Day and 'shop small, buy local'.
WA Small Business Day celebrates the important role of small businesses in communities and local economies, and encourages shoppers to make a conscious choice to purchase from a local small business.
There are almost 250,000 small businesses across Western Australia, accounting for nearly 97 per cent of all businesses in the State.
They contribute more than $50 billion to the State's economy each year and are an important source of employment and community contributions for Western Australians.
The Cook Government recognises the importance of this sector by funding tailored support for small businesses through the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC).
In the 2024-25 financial year, the SBDC responded to more than 8,200 business advice enquiries, delivered nearly 11,000 hours of business skill workshops, and provided more than 9,000 hours of business support and advice in regional WA.
SBDC's website experienced nearly 90,000 individual visits throughout the year, delivering online advice, templates, and tools to entrepreneurs.
For more information on resources and support available to WA small businesses, visit www.smallbusiness.wa.gov.au
As stated by Small Business Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"Supporting the small business sector is a key element of the Cook Government's Made in WA plan.
"Small businesses are not only critical to our State's economy but also the backbone of our local communities, providing a wide range of goods and services that we all rely on every day.
"On WA Small Business Day, I encourage every Western Australian to support small businesses in their area.
"Pay a visit to your local butchery or bakery, treat yourself to some flowers from a local florist, dine out at a local venue or even book your car in for a service with a local mechanic.
"To WA small business owners and operators - thank you for your hard work and contribution to our State and your local communities."
As stated by Small Business Commissioner Saj Abdoolakhan:
"Western Australia is a great place to own a business, and so many Western Australians have taken on the exciting challenge of becoming their own boss.
"This WA Small Business Day, it's important that we back the small businesses in our local areas, to say thank you for the vibrant atmosphere, unique goods, and essential services they bring to our communities.
"The SBDC is proud to support enterprising Western Australian small business owners with guidance and support on behalf of the WA Government, helping them to start well and thrive."
