Each week, we distil the most important Australian business stories into a clear, time‑saving wrap. Expect concise headlines, context on policy and regulation, notable industry moves, technology shifts, and trends shaping operations and growth. Designed for owners, entrepreneurs and decision-makers, you’ll get what matters, why it matters, and practical takeaways to act with confidence. A trustworthy, industry‑specific summary you can rely on, delivered consistently and straight to the point.
This Week:
Paige covers four stories for Australian business owners: Bondi small‑business support grants now open; the Productivity Commissions final tax reform push and what it could mean for investment and financing; MYEFO cuts to the Industry Growth Program narrowing future grant options; and January rule changes including a cash‑acceptance mandate for large retailers, a new merger regime, and ACCC warnings on Boxing Day sales conduct. Each item includes a practical takeaway on cash flow, financing options, and compliance. Listeners are invited to explore tailored funding at business-loans.com.au.
EPISODE 1027 | Business Loans Australia Weekly News Briefing | Sun, 21st Dec 2025
24 Dec 2025 | Paige Estritori
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Hello and welcome to Business Loans Australia Weekly News Briefing, Im Paige Estritori, and its Sunday, 21 December 2025.
First, immediate help for businesses near Bondi. The federal and NSW governments have opened support after last Sundays attack, including grants of up to twenty‑five thousand dollars for small businesses in the immediate area or in exceptional circumstances. A community hub is operating at North Bondi RSL, with Service NSW Business Concierge on hand. If your turnover took a hit or youve incurred recovery costs, get your documents in order and apply promptly, and if cash flow is tight, consider short‑term working capital to bridge timing gaps.
Next up, the Productivity Commission has reignited the tax debate. Its final recommendations include a lower company tax rate for most firms and a five per cent net cash‑flow tax applied economy‑wide, drawing strong pushback from industry groups over complexity and cost. Government will consult, so nothing changes today, but its a clear signal that deductions, investment treatment and financing mix could shift in 2026. Keep plans flexible, and model different scenarios so equipment purchases, leasing, and loan structures still stack up under potential rules.
Meanwhile, the Mid‑Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook trimmed one‑hundred and two million dollars from the Industry Growth Program, reducing future grant capacity for startups and innovative SMEs. Existing grants arent affected, but the pipeline for new funding is tighter. If you were counting on a grant to co‑fund commercialisation, line up alternative finance early—mixing secured or unsecured facilities can keep momentum without pausing projects.
Finally, January changes are around the corner. From 1 January 2026, major retailers must accept cash for essential purchases up to five hundred dollars, with an exemption for most small businesses under ten million in turnover, and Australias new merger notification regime begins. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, our competition regulator, is also warning retailers on Boxing Day discount claims after finding dodgy tactics during Black Friday. Double‑check pricing, terms and promo durations, and shore up cash flow so you can meet demand without cutting corners.
Thats the wrap. For tailored loan options, flexible terms and expert support nationwide, visit business-loans.com.au and lets keep your plans moving.
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
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