5 Common Challenges Faced by Small Businesses and How Consulting Can Help

Running a small business is often a balancing act. While the rewards can be great, significant challenges can stall growth or even threaten the business’s future. However, understanding these challenges is the first step to addressing them effectively.
Cairns Wage Recoveries: A Wake-Up Call for Small Businesses

Recent wage recoveries in Cairns have highlighted the increasing enforcement efforts of the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO). In August 2024, almost $30,000 in unpaid wages was recovered for 52 workers at local food outlets. This case serves as a wake-up call for small businesses to ensure compliance with workplace laws. Non-compliance, including underpayment and failure to pay penalties, can result in significant financial consequences. Regular audits, accurate record-keeping, and staying updated with Fair Work guidelines are essential steps to avoid breaches and safeguard your business from costly penalties and reputational damage. Compliance is key.
Balancing Work and Life: Adapting to the Right to Disconnect
The “Right to Disconnect” legislation, effective 26 August 2024, introduces new requirements to ensure employees can disconnect from work-related contact outside their designated hours. This significant change impacts small businesses, requiring them to adapt to avoid penalties and maintain compliance. The legislation allows employees to refuse after-hours work communication, with exceptions for emergencies or on-call duties. Small businesses should establish clear policies, update contracts, set expectations for different roles, and educate their teams about the new rules to navigate these changes. Compliance is crucial to avoid financial strain and reputational damage. This guide offers practical advice for small businesses across various industries to effectively implement the “Right to Disconnect” and maintain a healthy work environment.
Unions now have the right to enter workplaces to assist health and safety representatives and ensure compliance, regardless of employee count.
Union officials no longer need Fair Work Commission approval to visit your premises.
Employers must understand that union membership for employees is voluntary, and no coercion is allowed.
Discover how to manage these changes effectively, ensure smooth operations, and maintain a compliant workplace. Read the full article for detailed insights and practical tips.
Union Access and Your Business: A Guide for Small and Family-Owned Enterprises
Recent changes to the Fair Work Act have introduced significant amendments impacting union rights and workplace entry, particularly for small and family-owned businesses. This comprehensive guide breaks down these changes and provides actionable advice to help you stay compliant and protect your business.
Key points include:
Unions now have the right to enter workplaces to assist health and safety representatives and ensure compliance, regardless of employee count.
Union officials no longer need Fair Work Commission approval to visit your premises.
Employers must understand that union membership for employees is voluntary, and no coercion is allowed.
Discover how to manage these changes effectively, ensure smooth operations, and maintain a compliant workplace. Read the full article for detailed insights and practical tips.