Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Llew O’Brien is encouraging local businesses to “go digital” so they can compete, succeed and create job opportunities as Australia emerges from the COVID-19 crisis.

As part of the Liberals and Nationals Government’s $800 million JobMaker Digital Business Plan, Mr O’Brien said the Australian Small Business Advisory Service (ASBAS) Digital Solutions program has been expanded to offer low-cost, independent, expert and tailored advice to more small businesses.

“The expansion of the ASBAS Digital Solutions program means an extra 10,000 Australian businesses will be able to access these services and get practical advice and information on how to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the digital economy,” Mr O’Brien said. 

Businesses will be able to receive information and advice on:

• Websites and selling online.
• Social media and digital marketing.
• Using small business software.
• Online security and data privacy.
• Business crisis management and business continuity planning.
• Finance management and boosting cash flow.
• Staff management and creating a safe work environment.
• Retaining and staying connected to customers.
• Resilience and wellbeing.

“Many businesses moved online quickly when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, finding new customers or new ways of doing things online as the Australian economy rapidly moved to a digital economy,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Our JobMaker Digital Business Plan provides significant backing to help small and family-owned businesses continue that digital push and find opportunities to grow and create more jobs.

“Australia’s changing economy means that businesses are no longer bound by their location, so it is a fantastic opportunity for Wide Bay’s small businesses to expand their horizons.”

The Australian Small Business Advisory Service – Digital Solutions program is available to small businesses with fewer than 20 full-time (or equivalent) employees, as well as sole traders. The service is available across all metropolitan and regional areas.

Further information on accessing the program is available at business.gov.au or 13 28 46.