Speaker profile

Bruce Billson commenced his role as Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) in March 2021. The Ombudsman is an independent advocate for small and family businesses.

Bruce brings three decades of experience, knowledge, commitment and an understanding of the issues facing small business. Bruce was the Australian Government Cabinet Minister for Small Business from 2013-2015, a founding Director of Judo Bank and has held various board appointments, including the Franchise Council of Australia, Deakin University Business School and Australian Property Institute. He has also owned and operated a number of small businesses, and knows first-hand the joys and challenges this involves.

The mission of the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman is to help ensure Australia is the best place to start, grow and transform a small business and family enterprise. ASBFEO understands the challenges facing small and family business and provides advice and research to improve policies, access to dispute resolution services and mental health support should the need arise.

Meet Bruce Billson at

9:05 am

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9:15 am

The Mid-Market in Australia: Challenges and Opportunities

Mid-market businesses are the backbone of the Australian economy, but they are facing a number of challenges, including inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions. In this session, Bruce Billson, Ombudsman will discuss what the federal government can do to help businesses succeed in today’s market.

Mid-market businesses are the backbone of the Australian economy, accounting for 60% of private-sector employment.

Mid-market businesses are facing a number of challenges, including inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions.

There’s govt. help for mid-market businesses such as tax breaks, government contracts, and other forms of support.