Each week, we deliver a clear, credible wrap of Australian small business news — policy changes, tax and compliance updates, economic trends, technology shifts, grants, and standout industry stories. Expect plain-English context, key takeaways, and what it means for your operations. Stay informed in minutes, stay ahead of change, and start the week organised. We highlight major headlines from government, regulators, and trusted business outlets, summarised with practical context you can use.
This Week:
Weekly wrap for Australian SMEs: ransomware payments are down but smaller firms remain prime targets; plan and fund essential cyber upgrades. Insurance leaders say the cyclone reinsurance pool helps but wont solve broader premium pressures; budget for higher renewals and consider smoothing costs. The ATO receives about 1,000 tax tip‑offs a week, so tighten records and be ready to manage cash flow if a bill lands. Menulogs exit could hit hospitality orders; diversify channels and consider short‑term working capital to bridge the shift.
EPISODE 884 | Small Business Finance SME Newscast | Sat, 15th Nov 2025
19 Nov 2025 | Paige Estritori
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Hello and welcome to the Small Business Finance SME Newscast, Im Paige Estritori, and its Saturday 15 November 2025.
First, cyber risk. New research out this week shows ransom payments have nearly halved, but most attacks still hit smaller firms. Mandatory incident reporting under the Cyber Security Act 2024 has been in place since May, and support for it is strong. For owners, this is a resilience story: tighten backups and access controls, check your cyber cover, and budget for basics like password managers and staff training. If you do need to fund upgrades, look at flexible business finance options so cash flow isnt stretched.
Meanwhile, insurance affordability is back in focus. Industry submissions to Treasurys cyclone reinsurance pool review say the scheme delivers relief in high‑risk areas, but wont fix broader premium pressures without more mitigation. Expect risk‑based pricing to stick, especially where weather risks are rising. Build higher renewals into your cash flow, review excesses and cover, and consider smoothing costs with a line of credit or short‑term business loan rather than letting policies lapse.
On compliance, the tax office is getting plenty of help from the public. Almost a thousand tip‑offs a week are being made about cash‑only practices and unreported income, with most worthy of investigation. For SMEs, that means record‑keeping, payslips and super must be watertight, and invoices should match whats banked. If a surprise tax bill would squeeze you, compare funding options early so operations stay stable while you work with your adviser on a plan.
Finally, hospitality and local retailers using delivery apps should plan for disruption. Menulog will shut in Australia later this month, which may cut online order volumes for some venues. Diversify channels, nudge customers to direct ordering, and forecast the short‑term dip. If you need a buffer for staffing and inventory while you adjust, explore unsecured business loans or a business line of credit with flexible repayments.
Thats the wrap. For fast eligibility checks, lender comparisons and support from independent experts, head to small-business-finance.com.au. Thanks for listening, and Ill see you next week.
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
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