Special Report

A case of accidental debt

Workers' compensation insurance: if you aren't safe, you'll be sorry, writes Alexandra Cain.

BUSINESS MAXIMS

A question of profits

Business Maxims Operating a business through a company can be a great idea when starting out. But the tax benefit can be outweighed when profits have built up.

Spending slide spreads: Westpac

Danny John Key parts of Australia's services sector are being hit by the slowdown in consumer spending.

Big rise in business failure rate

Clancy Yeates The number of corporate insolvencies has surged to its highest level in more than a decade.

FINANCE

Keeping your lenders in the loop

Tony Kaye Having a better relationship with your bank could save you if push comes to shove. Here's how to do it.

Can't pay the ATO? Don't do a runner

Max Newnham Often the first financial commitments that cash-strapped businesses ignore are payments due to the tax office.

All debts are off

Alison Bell Small businesses are facing a debt repayment strike that could send many of them broke.

BUSINESS MAXIMS

The ABCs of GST

Max Newnham When you own a business there are countless rules and regulations that must be met.

Business demand for credit at four-year low

Peter Martin Latest NAB business survey shows two-thirds of businesses reported no need for finance in January.

Mark Bouris

Profitability always a cash-22 situation

Mark Bouris Make sure you know your customers and be clear on what they look for from you.

Mark Bouris

Small and non-bank lenders worth a look

Mark Bouris The truth is that you can't influence a rate cut, but you can look for a better deal.

How to deal with a cash crunch

Christopher Niesche When businesses go under, it’s usually not because they’re not making a profit, but because they don’t have enough cash to pay their bills.

Accountants still a trusted source of advice, say SMEs

Alexandra Cain Most small business owners still rely on their accountant rather than their lawyer, bank, business coach or financial planner, according to a survey of Australasian small business owners.

Business Maxims

Why neglecting insurance can be disastrous

Max Newnham Too often many business owners neglect their insurance requirements of not only the business, but also the business owner.

Credit card spending spree is back

There are signs the nation's love affair with the plastic card is being rekindled.

Sentiment

Business mood picks up

Chris Zappone Business confidence has turned positive for the first time since December 2007, helped by government hand-outs.