SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS URGED TO TAKE STOCK OF THEIR OWN WELL-BEING

After a busy Christmas shopping period, Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack is encouraging small business operators to take time out to check on their own well-being through a new Federal Government website.

Mr McCormack said the Liberal and Nationals’ Government had launched the My Business Health website to help small business owners manage stress and mental well-being.

“As a former Minister for Small Business and someone who operated a small business for several years I know about its stresses and strains and how important it is to take stock of your own health from time to time,” Mr McCormack said.

“It’s particularly important now when the drought is adding so much pressure to the everyday lives of small business owners.”

The new website offers free tools, templates and useful tips to help small business owners manage through day-to-day operations.

Mr McCormack said the website offered small businesses in the Riverina and Central West free, helpful resources on how people can better manage their business, while also prioritising their well-being.

The economic impact of poor mental health in Australia’s small businesses is estimated to cost the economy over $19 billion a year.

The website is a key initiative in the Small Business Mental Health package, which also includes:

• $3.1 million to expand the trial of mental health organisation Everymind’s ‘Ahead for Business’ program, to support small and family business — particularly sole proprietors.

• $500,000 to promote existing mental health resources for small business.

• Roundtables with small business and mental health sector stakeholders to inform on policy development, particularly for regional and rural Australia.

The website includes additional links to specific advice for common issues that small business operators face because we know that when small businesses are supported to thrive and grow all of Australia benefits.

My Business Health is available at: www.asbfeo.gov.au/my-business-health.

ENDS