The NSW Government says its Small Business Commissioner Bill 2013, passed by the Parliament on 2 May 2013, will even out the playing field for small business and bring business practices in NSW into a new era. The passing of this legislation makes the NSW Small Business Commissioner an independent statutory officer which strengthens their role as a voice for small business in NSW.
The legislation allows the Small Business Commissioner to:
- Require parties to a dispute to attend mediation prior to the initiating of a legal process and impose penalties for any non-adherence to the requirements.
- Investigate allegations of unfair treatment and unfair contract terms in a neutral and independent manner.
- Require local councils, State Government bodies and other businesses to provide information or answer questions if a complaint is made.
- Report directly to parliament where there is an issue of real importance to small businesses.
If you’re in NSW and need assistance, call 1300 795 534 or email we.assist@smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au. For information about the role of the NSW Small Business Commissioner, visit www.smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au.
