The NSW Government plans to axe Business Connect on September 30 – a $10 million program that delivers up to a 3:1 return on investment for the small business sector, which contributes $535 billion a year to the NSW economy.
"The numbers simply don't add up. You don't cut a program that costs $10 million but helps protect a sector worth billions. That's like throwing away dollars to save cents," says Debbie Hatumale-Uy, chief marketing officer at Realise Business, a not-for-profit that delivers Business Programs across Sydney.
Small business is the backbone of NSW's economy:
- 97% of NSW businesses are small businesses
- They employ 1.8 million people
- Contribute $535 billion in annual sales
- NSW is home to 34% of Australia's small businesses
Business Connect delivers proven results:
- Supported 60,000+ businesses since 2017
- Delivered 300,000 hours of tailored advice
- Helped create 40,000 new jobs
- 47% of clients are regional
- 42% established businesses, 47% startups
- 96% satisfaction rate with the program
- Clients considering closure dropped from 12% to just 1% after support
- An independent NSW Treasury review confirmed the program delivers a benefit-cost ratio of up to 3:1.
Under the current changes, the proven system – where a Service NSW business concierge triages and then refers clients to a subject-matter expert with local knowledge – will be dismantled. In its place, concierges will be left to triage without an expert to refer to, breaking a longstanding structure that delivers real outcomes.
"Small businesses don't need scripted advice; they need experienced advisors who understand their communities, industries and challenges. Take that away and you risk jobs, opportunities – and the communities they sustain," says Hatumale-Uy.
Business owners agree. "Cutting this program is economic suicide. My advisor didn't just give me advice – she gave me the blueprint for success. Every critical decision in my startup came through her guidance," says James Stewart, CEO of Aero Vanguard, Sydney.
Embedded in the support ecosystem
Business Connect isn't just a standalone service. It is embedded in the state's wider support network, referred to regularly by other government agencies, local councils and financial lifelines such as the Small Business Debt Helpline. "Removing this program will hit regional and vulnerable communities the hardest," warns Hatumale-Uy.
"We urge the Premier, Treasurer and Small Business Minister to urgently reconsider this cut and show small business owners that you have their backs," she says.
