The Minister for Small Business has advised that the Government has “settled on a model with real powers for the transition of the Small Business Commissioner into the Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman”. The main aim of the Ombudsman is to make it easier for small businesses to access assistance, including general business advice. Mr Billson said as part of its key responsibilities, the Ombudsman will be a:
- Commonwealth-wide advocate for small businesses and family enterprises;
- concierge for dispute resolution service; and
- contributor to the development of small business friendly Commonwealth laws and regulations.
The Government plans to release for consultation draft legislation to establish the role of the Ombudsman “shortly”.
[LTN 159, 19/8/14]