The Minns Labour Government’s Service NSW Business Bureau has significantly improved access to government services and advice for small businesses. Since launching in October 2023, the initiative has tackled over 265,000 requests for support and delivered an impressive 45,000 hours of tailored business guidance.
The Business Bureau actively assists small businesses across New South Wales, helping them tackle complex challenges while promoting growth and innovation. This initiative focuses on removing bureaucratic obstacles, improving access to government services, and delivering practical, user-friendly digital solutions to streamline business processes.
Supporting small business growth
The NSW Business Bureau serves as a vital resource for businesses seeking tailored support. A dedicated team of business concierges supports clients in understanding government regulations, acquiring necessary licences and permits, accessing disaster relief resources, and obtaining referrals for mental health services.
Key achievements include:
- Digital engagement: The Business Bureau’s web pages attract over 2.2 million visits, showcasing the growing demand for efficient and user-friendly services.
- Crisis management: The Bureau’s swift action teams delivered essential support to businesses affected by significant events, assisting over 140 companies during the Bondi incident and tackling supply chain disruptions in Northern NSW caused by fire ant infestations.
Digital tools for business success
The Service NSW Business Bureau provides digital solutions like the Business Bureau App and Service NSW Business Profile, which help small businesses access and manage essential government services efficiently. These solutions enable business owners to manage transactions efficiently, monitor industry licences, and handle administrative tasks seamlessly on their mobile devices or desktop computers.
These tools provide the following key features:
- Wide acceptance of over 165,000 businesses have embraced these digital solutions, demonstrating their effectiveness in enhancing operational efficiency.
- Renew your business vehicle registration. More than 21,500 businesses have adopted the new feature of the Business Profile, allowing them to renew their vehicle registrations effortlessly. This innovation streamlines and efficiently manages business operations.
- Small business owners gain immediate access to these digital solutions, allowing them to obtain government services, information, and guidance exactly when they need it, all while enjoying the convenience of managing their operations from anywhere.
The NSW Government enhances opportunities for businesses by adopting digital innovation, reducing administrative costs, and facilitating quicker access to essential services in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Empowering small business resilience
The Service NSW Business Bureau significantly enhances the small business environment in New South Wales. The Bureau provides tailored support, enabling business owners to tackle challenges and seize growth opportunities.
The Minister for Small Business, Steve Kamper, emphasised the crucial role the Bureau plays in the success of small enterprises: “The Service NSW Business Bureau’s first-year results underscore the critical role it plays in supporting small businesses, from overcoming obstacles to fostering long-term growth. With our focus on reducing red tape and eliminating barriers, we’re helping small businesses become more resilient and competitive.”
The government’s initiatives align with the NSW Charter for Small Business, empowering small business owners to thrive in an evolving market landscape while effectively addressing their needs and fostering growth. These initiatives ensure that companies endure and establish a solid foundation for future growth.
Enhancing digital accessibility
The NSW Government actively enhances the accessibility and adaptability of support services for small business owners. The Service NSW Business Bureau ensures that businesses access vital services and resources seamlessly at any time and from any location by adopting digital advancements.
Jihad Dib, the Minister of Customer Service and Digital Government, emphasised the critical need for adaptability in service provision: “Small business owners often juggle multiple responsibilities, so we’re committed to making our support services more accessible and flexible than ever.” The widespread adoption of our digital tools proves that business owners value the ability to access advice, information, and government services at their convenience.”
The success of the service digital platforms from the NSW Business Bureau showcases the government’s commitment to streamlining services, empowering business owners to manage their operations efficiently, and reducing time spent on administrative tasks.
Building a digital future
The service provides essential support and assistance to users. The NSW Business Bureau actively contributes to the NSW Government’s goal of creating a modern, efficient, and transparent digital government. The government uses data-driven insights and cutting-edge digital tools to revolutionise interactions between small businesses and public services by improving efficiency and increasing accessibility.
The initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting small businesses today and building a strong, resilient economy for the future. The NSW Government enhances digital platforms, delivering integrated solutions that empower businesses to overcome challenges and seize emerging opportunities in a dynamic landscape.
The service achieved success. In its first year, the NSW Business Bureau showcases how customised assistance, cutting-edge digital solutions, and efficient government services have a significant impact. The NSW Government addresses the needs of small businesses and harnesses the potential of digital transformation, creating a vibrant and competitive landscape for enterprises. This strategy enhances the state’s economy and establishes it as a frontrunner in public sector innovation.