Questions and Answers
How does the Digital Solutions – Australian Small Business Advisory Services program work?
The program, which is already up and running, offers small businesses access to free or subsidised advice and training, via one-to-one consultations or group workshops and webinars.
The Government has placed the digital economy very much at the centre of this year’s federal budget, and one way is through this scheme, which has been expanded with an additional $12.7 million in funding.
The ‘digital’ nature of the advice is broad and covers:
- how digital tools can help your small business
- websites and selling online
- social media and digital marketing
- using small business software
- online security and data privacy
The first time your business uses the Digital Solutions program is free. After that initial use, services are subsidised at a price of less than $60.
The advice is provided by selected ASBAS providers in each state and territory and according to the government, advisors in the Digital Solutions program are formally qualified in business or IT-related fields and have a minimum of two years’ experience working with SMEs.
The providers are also currently offering small businesses more general business and advice because of the ongoing effects of COVID-19, including areas such as crisis management and business continuity planning, staff management and retaining customers.
Eligibility for the scheme will depend on how many employees you have, with those with up to 20 full-time or equivalent employees able to access the program.
It is available across the country, and there are service providers in each state and territory.
Further information on the scheme can be found here.
If you need assistance and support in running your business TaxAssist Accountants is here to help. Contact us for a free, no obligation consultation.
Date published 12 May 2021 | Last updated 13 May 2021
This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.Choose the right accounting firm for you
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