Latest News
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Productivity Commission draft report slams uncompetitive banking sector
First 5000 | February 8, 2018The Productivity Commission’s draft report into the finance sector has criticised banks for exploiting long-term customers and calls for regulatory reform to encourage greater competition.
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Why do incumbent suppliers lose competitive tenders?
Robin Hastings | February 8, 2018Have you ever been the incumbent on a large ‘must win’ contract, and lost it during a competitive tender process? In today’s cut-throat market even long standing relationships must be supported by a high scoring renewal bid.
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The 14 traits of future ready firms
Bob Fisher | February 8, 2018Companies must embrace the rapid pace of change today or risk falling by the wayside. Future-ready firms are as unique as the people who run them; but all tend to share these core characteristics.
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SME business confidence hits 7 year high
First 5000 | February 7, 2018SME optimism regarding the national economy has reached its highest level since December 2010. although areas of state concern remain.
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Defence streamlines service provider arrangements
First 5000 | February 7, 2018New Major Service Provider agreements should deliver better value, improve defence procurement and encourage more medium sized firms to engage with the Defence Industry.
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Hong Kong exports eased by new customs deal
First 5000 | February 6, 2018Gaining Australian Trusted Trader status can save your business time and money, offer quicker access to international trade markets and ensure a ‘lighter touch’ at the border of participating nations.
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Making the most of social media
Stephen Barnes | February 6, 2018Mid-sized firms must embrace social media to engage customers as traditional advertising declines and Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin remain the platforms of choice.
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Government must back small business to boost Australian prosperity
Stephen Cartwright | February 5, 2018NSW Business Chamber CEO Stephen Cartwright underlines the importance of Federal Government backing for small business.
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Gold Coast firms get set for the Commonwealth Games
First 5000 | February 5, 2018The 2018 Commonwealth Games will be held on the Gold Coast from the 4th to the 15th of April and local firms are being encouraged to prepare in good time for the biggest event in Australia this decade.
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No clear target in Australia’s 2030 national innovation report
Leigh Dayton | February 4, 2018Australia’s new roadmap for innovation is more of a sketch with detours, dead ends, and red lights which should be green.
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Manufacturers enjoy strong start to 2018
First 5000 | February 3, 2018The Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index increased in January, with most sectors showing promising growth for the new year.
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Innovation plan plots the right course, but getting there will be harder
Innes Willox | February 3, 2018The goals set in Innovation and Science Australia’s new strategic plan contain much good sense and industry looks forward to working with the Government, academia and the community to put the plan into action.
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Fintech urges fast-tracking of crowdfunding legislation
First 5000 | February 2, 2018Australia’s fintech industry has called for the speedy approval and implementation of private company equity crowdfunding legislation to help more Australian small-to-medium sized businesses access the funds they need to grow.
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The Asian opportunity for Australian SMEs
Valentin Henrio | February 2, 2018The growing importance of Asia in the global economy offers enormous opportunities for export minded Australian mid-sized companies.
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Australia must innovate to prosper and thrive
Bill Ferris | February 1, 2018In his address to the National Press Club, Bill Ferris explains why innovation should be celebrated and encouraged in Australia, not feared or tiptoed around like some “elephant in the room”.