Small businesses touched by dozens of recommendations in massive Productivity Commission report
The vast document addresses small business issues in several key moments, calling for decision-makers to reassess the workplace awards system, reconsider how banks finance entrepreneurs, and better share innovative ideas with startups.
An expert behind the Productivity Commission’s 5-year review shares his recommendations for the Australian economy
Over the 60 years to 2019-20, labour productivity (production per hour worked) grew at an average of 1.8% per year, which sounds small but compounds each year.
Government urged to act as report finds up to 60% of Indigenous-style souvenirs sold in Australia are fake
A Productivity Commission study has revealed two in three Indigenous-style souvenirs sold in Australia are fake.
Mental health worker compensation claims have tripled in the past 20 years, and are forecast to continue rising
Despite the spike, however, getting a compensation payout isn't easy, with scores of claims rejected.
John Durie: With the economy slowing and SMEs struggling, it’s decision time for Jim Chalmers
Chalmers has raised the hurdle for his budget next year because if Tuesday’s effort was designed to get the conversation started, that is when decisions will come.
Does your business have ‘digital fluency’? A new MYOB and Digital Skills Organisation partnership aims to build SME tech skills
Business accounting platform MYOB and the Digital Skills Organisation will work together to develop a 'digital fluency' standard for SMEs.
John Durie: Government to outlaw unfair contracts this year, as ACCC grapples with how to tackle merger laws
In a boon to small business, new rules outlawing unfair contract terms should be introduced into federal Parliament this year, according to Assistant Minister for Treasury Andrew Leigh.
Increasing productivity won’t lead to higher wages, it’ll just increase corporate profits
If the Productivity Commission really wants to link productivity to higher wages, it should look at the market power of corporations, says Bernard Keane.
John Durie: Service-based economy dominates Australia, but productivity growth at lowest rate in 60 years
The Productivity Commission’s interim report said the service sector accounts for 80% of output and 90% of employment in Australia.
Why is Labor trying to wind back superannuation reforms, and what could be the outcome?
Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones has asked the Treasury to consider concerns relating to the “regulatory complexity” of a requirement that super funds act in their members' best financial interests.
How to overcome tech challenges in remote and hybrid working models
Despite the indisputable benefits of flexible working arrangements, it’s not always smooth sailing. Remote work has introduced a new set of challenges that business leaders haven’t dealt with in the past.
Why flexible working arrangements for women is good business
Workplace flexibility has long been a holy grail for parents, particularly women, trying to juggle the competing demands of work and family.
