Bob Kucera

Bob Kucera

Former Minister for Disability Services; Sport and Recreation; Citizenship and Multicultural Interests; Seniors

    Online network to help small business connect

    2/06/2004 10:15 AM
     
    2/6/04

    An online network to help small businesses help each other was a key feature in a new support system for the State’s booming home-based business sector, Small Business Minister Bob Kucera announced today.

    Speaking at the launch of the Home Based Business Network, Minister Kucera said the State Government was showing its responsiveness to the needs of the home-based business sector.

    “One of the features of the network is an interactive online discussion forum, which will provide a quick and easy opportunity to share information, ask advice and literally ‘connect’ with other businesses,” he said.

    “By learning from each other, home-based businesses will be able to share successes and avoid pitfalls.

    “Developed by the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC), the network will not only provide support but also an opportunity to be heard.”

    Mr Kucera said seven out of 10 - or 100,000 - small businesses in Western Australia were operated either at, or from, home.

    Australian Bureau of Statistics figures showed the annual average increase of home-based businesses in WA from June 2001 to June 2003 was 6.8 per cent, significantly outstripping the national average increase of just 0.4 per cent.

    “Home-based business is a popular and low-cost way to start a small business, so we recognise the importance of providing support and encouragement to this sector, particularly during the start-up phase,” the Minister said.

    Mr Kucera said other benefits of joining the Home Based Business Network included access to workshops and seminars, links to useful contacts and networking opportunities and events.

    “Networking is a critical factor in any small business, and it is particularly relevant to the often isolated nature of home-based business,” he said.

    “Making contacts and building relationships is critical for motivation as well as the future growth of the business.

    “Complementing the network is a Home Based Business Kit, a highly practical guide that leads you through every stage of home-based business development.

    “Both the network and the kit complement the small business advisory service offered by the SBDC and the State-wide network of Business Enterprise Centres.”

    For more information about the Home Based Business Network, call SBDC on 9220 0222, visit the office at 553 Hay St, Perth or log-on to http://www.homebasedbusiness.sbdc.com.au

    Minister's office: 9213 7000