Today’s opening of a new small business shopfront in the CBD is part of the State Government’s
commitment to back the sector, help it grow and create more jobs.

The new Small Business Centre was opened this afternoon at 99 Gawler Place, by Minister for Small Business Martin Hamilton-Smith and Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis.

Housing the new office of the Small Business Commissioner, the centre brings together services and advice from the Department of State Development and Office of the Industry Advocate.

Small business is core to the local economy and continues to be front and centre of the State
Government’s plans to move towards a modern and innovative economy that creates jobs for the
future.

The new centre responds to an increased demand for the services of each office and gives people a convenient new walk in shopfront. It complements the Small Business Commissioner’s work to deliver important information and training to business owners.

Together with the Department of State Development and the Office of the Industry Advocate, a range of services are offered to small business including business workshops and information and training sessions.

Background

In line with the Government’s SA Industry Participation Policy, more than 20 South Australian
businesses worked on the project including carpet, furniture and outfitting suppliers.

The centre opening follows the $109 million Job Creation Grant package announced in this year’s State Budget, which offers grants of up to $10,000 to eligible SMEs that take on new employees above current staff numbers. .

Quotes attributable to Small Business Minister Martin Hamilton-Smith

The Government is committed to assisting small business and having an easily accessible location to assist business owners is a great initiative.

In the 2016/17 budget, the Government has increased funding to the Office of the Small Business Commissioner to continue to expand the important alternative dispute resolution work the office undertakes and support city and regional activities.

The alternative dispute resolution offered by the Office is a great benefit to business to help them
through complex dispute issues which may involve another business, local or state government.