In a bid to empower small business owners across Australia, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has rolled out an online learning platform to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills required to navigate tax and super obligations effectively.

Deputy Commissioner Will Day said the Essentials to Strengthen Your Small Business hub will deliver accessible education for small business proprietors. The platform boasts over 20 short courses and a calendar outlining key lodgment due dates, creating a comprehensive resource tailored to the unique needs of small businesses.

Platform to deliver free courses for business owners

“Small business owners can now access short, free, and flexible online courses to sharpen their knowledge of tax, super, and the core aspects of effective small business management,” said the Deputy Commissioner. He further explained that the platform accommodates various learning styles through videos, case studies, audio content, written information, and quick quizzes, making it adaptable to the diverse preferences of business owners.

Recognising the time constraints faced by small business operators, Day suggests the flexibility of the platform will be a boon. Users can engage with the courses at their convenience, allowing them to save progress and resume learning at their preferred time.

The learning hub also provides insights into common pitfalls, such as goods and services tax (GST) and business deductions, offering practical guidance to mitigate potential errors. Day highlighted the collaborative effort behind the platform’s development, involving small businesses and educational experts to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

Tax practitioners, particularly those operating small businesses themselves, can also leverage the platform as a valuable resource for their staff and clients.

The platform aligns with the Albanese Government’s commitment to reducing the administrative burden on small businesses, as stated by Minister for Small Business Julie Collins.

“I encourage small businesses to take up this great opportunity from the Australian Taxation Office with free courses specifically designed for the needs of small business,” said Minister Collins. The initiative aligns with recent Budget measures aimed at supporting small businesses with extended timeframes for amending tax returns and expanded access to advice through the tax clinic program.

Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, emphasised the practical significance of the resource.

“Business know-how and being able to benefit from the wisdom of others can be key to successfully turning an idea into an enterprise,” said Billson, commending the platform for its potential to enhance decision-making capabilities among small business owners.

The Essentials to Strengthen Your Small Business learning platform is now live.

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