Small Business Fair to be held in Geelong tomorrow

THE federal government’s Department of Jobs and Small Business is hosting a Small Business Fair in Geelong tomorrow (Friday, March 15).

The event will be a one-stop-shop where people who want to start or grow their business, can speak with locally-based government agencies about simplifying taxes, using digital marketing and e-commerce tools, selling to government and prioritising wellbeing.

The fair will feature keynote speakers, live demonstrations, presentations and practical advice.

There are about 20 Small Business Fairs planned nationally, with the fairs focusing on helping existing businesses tap into initiatives, benefits and tools.

The fairs will also help people keen to start their own small business learn about setting a strong foundation in their first year of operation.

The department’s small business group manager, Peter Cully, said the fairs would give small business owners information that will help them get on with growing their business.

“This is a great chance for small and family business owners to access Australian Government incentives and benefits that will help them work smarter.

“The fairs will also focus on digital tools used to connect with customers and the importance of selfcare and wellbeing in the small business environment.”

With Australia’s 3.3 million small businesses under pressure to carve out their success alongside rapidly changing technology, many first-time entrepreneurs can struggle to keep their business afloat in the first 12 months. The fairs are geared towards easing that pressure.

The fair will be held at Newtown Event Centre, 40 Read Street, Newtown, on Friday, March 15 from 7.30am-2pm.

To book your free place and learn more about the fair, head to smallbusinessfair.jobs.gov.au or phone (02) 6121 3979 from 9am to 5pm.