Special Report: Keeping afloat

Facing of a range of issues beyond their control, small businesses are having a tough time. And there appears to be no silver bullet, other than the continuing innovation, drive and determination demonstrated at a recent WA Business News forum.

The role of the banks in Australia's small business sector is crucial and will remain so. No single topic generated more discussion at the recent WA Business News SME forum than the big banks, their service, or lack of it, relationships with them and thei

Cash flow is the major concern facing small business enterprises, according to two major national surveys.

Small business accounts for 97 per cent of all businesses in Western Australia, but an estimated 40 per cent do not have a strategic business plan.

Operators of small businesses are looking increasingly to vital communications solutions outside of the big telcos, Telstra and Optus.

The Western Australian government has called on its federal counterpart to beef up its Trade Practices Act (TPA) to help protect small business against predatory pricing by big business.

Running a small business can take a horrendous toll on family and private life.

The inability to attract and retain good staff, and the combination of rapidly escalating commercial rents and a shortage of warehouse and office space, are hurting small business in Western Australia.