August 1, 2016

Mp drives pathways for small businesses

Local member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas is setting her focus on building policies that support small businesses. She is inviting business owners in the electorate to share their experiences on the challenges of establishing and running a small business via an online survey.

Earlier this year Ms Thomas held a forum on the Pathways to Business in Woodend which drew on the expertise of business owners across a broad range of industries.

"I am grateful for the openness that people running small businesses have already provided, and I hope that others will come forward to illuminate the obstacles they faced when starting out, and the support that we can put in place."

Ideas discussed at the forum and gathered through the online survey will be collated by Ms Thomas as the basis for policy development.

Ms Thomas recently met with local business owner Christine Lauder from The Dressing Table for her thoughts on the issue and to get some of her business tips for those starting out.

Christine is a savvy business operator who represents some of Australia’s most gifted artisans, selling their wares in her shop and mentoring them in their own practices.

For people starting out, Christine says "Have courage, and take the time to network. If you can meet somebody and connect with them at a networking opportunity, the possibilities for a business collaboration are just around the corner."

Christine’s style and her commitment to building authentic customer relationships have seen her selected as one of the Faces of Small Business exhibition as part of the Small Business Festival.

The Small Business Festival runs until 31 August with over 450 free or low cost events. It was launched with the announcement of a government –wide review to cut red tape in an effort to reduce the regulatory burden on Victoria’s small businesses.

Ms Lauder welcomed this review. "Managing a small business is hard enough without wasting time and resources on cumbersome and unnecessary reporting" she said.

Business owners wishing to participate in the online survey should contact Mary-Anne Thomas’ office on 5428 2138.

Quotes attributable to Mary-Anne Thomas MP
"Small businesses are a hotbed for skills development and employment opportunities. It stands to reason that Government should be doing what it can to ensure their strength and vitality."

“With such a high proportion of small and micro businesses in the region, there is a clear opportunity and in fact an obligation for us to help them in whatever way we can.

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