Opportunities for SMEs in spotlight at symposium

How can Australia ensure Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) continue to prosper in the future?

On November 2, a symposium organised by Griffith University will seek to shed some light on the question, examining both challenges and opportunities in detail.

SMEs make up 99 per cent of the nation’s businesses and, while they may be small by name, their contribution can’t be understated -SMEscontribute a third of gross domestic product and 46% of private sectoremployment.

“Governments are acutely aware of the importance of SMEs, introducing a number of reforms and strategies in an endeavour to assist the sector,” said Associate Professor Brett Freudenberg.

“However, the future for SMEs present a number of issues, such as the rise of the sharing economy, financial constraints, the growth of international opportunities, mooted tax reforms, succession planning and climate change.

“These issues can present both opportunities and challenges for SMEs; and navigating these will be a key for success in the future.”

Speakers at the symposium will address topics including growth, disruption, tax and advice.

The event is sponsored by Griffith’s Law Futures Centre and the Reform and Innovation in Policy, Practice and Legal Education group within Griffith Business School.