19/9/00
The Business Enterprise Centre (BEC) network helped the development of more than 1,750 new businesses in 1999-2000, Deputy Premier and Minister for Small Business Hendy Cowan said today.
Mr Cowan said conservative estimates indicated that an additional $430 million in business turnover was added to the State’s economy through BEC-assisted businesses.
“This figure does not include the impact on the economy of the additional employment created through these business starts or the added value of support and assistance provided to existing businesses,” he said.
“The BEC network influences the viability and success of developing and expanding businesses with timely assistance.
“During 1999-2000 more than 89,700 business inquiries were directed to the network of 37 BECs throughout Western Australia. Twenty-seven BEC offices are located in regional areas.
“New business start-ups have facilitated the development of more than 2,870 full-time jobs and 1,500 part-time jobs.”
This financial year the BEC network will offer guidance on the reporting obligations of the new tax system, in particular the submission of Business Activity Statements (BAS) and Pay as You Go (PAYG).
“Of particular interest also, over the next 12 months, will be projects submitted to the BEC network for funding through the Small Business Initiatives Fund (SBIF),” Mr Cowan said.
“The fund is used to deliver a range of local and regional small business development initiatives targeting skills development, business planning, specialist presentations, E-Commerce, women in business and youth enterprise. These projects have wide-ranging benefits for the small business sector and the community as a whole.”
The BEC network is supported by the State Government - through the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) - local government, Lotteries Commission and Australia Post. The State Government provided core funding of $2.25 million in 1999-2000.
Media contacts:
Peter Jackson (Minister’s office) 9222-8788
Michelle Downie (SBDC) 9220-0215
