Innovation Internet > Sections > About DIISR > Fact Sheets > Small Business Support Line
 
 
 
 
 
 


(Last Reviewed :  24/08/2010 )

KEY POINTS

  • In response to the global recession, the Small Business Support Line was established, in September 2009, to complement existing services to small businesses.
  • The Small Business Support Line is the first point of call for information and referral services to small business owners who are pressed for time and need answers to business related issues.
  • The national support line links into existing Small Business support mechanisms, including:
    • Business Licensing Information & Referral
    • business.gov.au website navigation
    • Business Enterprise Centres
    • State and Territory Governments
  • Since the launch of the Small Business Support Line more than 15,000 small businesses have already called for information and support on:
    • Australian Government Grants & Incentives
    • Registration & Licences, ABNs, ACNs
    • Starting a business
    • Growing your business
    • Employing Staff
    • Finance and Cash Flow
    • Business Planning and Marketing
    • eBusiness and Information Technology
    • Occupational Health and Safety
    • Tenders and Contracts
    • Imports and Exports
    • Home-based business
    • Insurance 
  • In addition to this service, the Support Line is responsible for the Small Business Credit Complaints Clearing House which provides an avenue for small businesses to direct their issues about access to and the cost of bank finance. Small Business Credit complaints can be submitted online via www.business.gov.au.

FACTS AND FIGURES

  • The Support Line can be contacted by Telephone on: 1800 77 7275 or by email at: SBSL@innovation.gov.au.
  • Opening Hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time). The Support Line is closed on Australian National Public Holidays.
  • Small businesses from a broad range of sectors including retail trade, manufacturing, health and community services and construction have used the service.
  • Information is being sought on a broad range of topics including registrations and licences, Government initiatives and grants, Australian Business Number (ABN), start-up information, legal, accounting and taxation.