Aspiring entrepreneurs and small business people can now receive practical assistance and support with new Entrepreneurship Facilitators in place across Australia.
The new Entrepreneurship Facilitators will encourage entrepreneurship and self-employment, particularly among mature age Australians, including those at risk of unemployment due to structural changes in the economy.
Minister for Jobs and Industrial Relations, the Hon Kelly O’Dwyer MP, said the new facilitators announced today will focus on providing support to mature-age people, but anyone wanting to start their own business can access the services.
"We know that if you lose your job over the age of 50, it is harder and takes longer to get back into the labour market," Minister O’Dwyer said.
"Older Australians have a lifetime of skills, knowledge and maturity and are often well placed to become successful entrepreneurs. The new Entrepreneurship Facilitators will provide practical support to help mature-age Australians who wish to continue working."
Positioned in key areas across Australia, the facilitators will provide tailored mentoring and assistance and refer people to services to help them start and run their own business.
The program builds on the success of existing facilitators in three regions who have been supporting young people to pursue entrepreneurships since December 2016. This program has so far reached more than 23,000 Australians at workshops, jobs fairs, schools and other local forums. More than 1,000 people have received individualised support and advice to turn their ideas into a viable businesses.
"The jobs figures tell us that the number of Australians in work is at a record high. The Government’s plan for a stronger economy is working and we want all Australians, including mature-age Australians, to share in this success," Minister O’Dwyer said.
"Helping people understand what’s required to start or grow a small business, develop a marketing strategy, understand cash flow and develop a budget are just some of the services facilitators can offer to help people get their business off the ground."
"Self-employment can be a great option for older people to consider – it extends their working lives, creates economic security and counters age discrimination."
Entrepreneurship Facilitators are part of a suite of measures announced in the 2018-19 Budget as part of the Coalition Government’s $189.7 million More Choices for a Longer Life package to support older Australians.
