It has been an exciting month for FBA in WA! Firstly I had the extreme pleasure of meeting the newly appointed Australian Small Business Family Enterprise Ombudsman Kate Carnell to hear her address a gathering of government and not for profit organisations that represent SME businesses. I also had the opportunity to proudly represent the Family Enterprise sector during a one on one meeting with her the following day.  I have to say it was very positive to hear the passion and vision that the Ombudsman will be bringing to this much awaited role and I believe there will be a good deal of positive recommendations and actions to come out of her office.  Currently you can register your input and feedback on the topics or issues you would like the Ombudsman to know about.  Visit http://www.asbfeo.gov.au/ to view the resources and contribute to the discussion paper.

Visit http://www.asbfeo.gov.au/ to view the resources and contribute to the discussion paper.

The highlight of the last few weeks has been the WA Family Business Conference, again we were supported by the Small Business Commissioner for WA, Mr David Eaton, who attended the conference and was impressed with the calibre and openness of our speakers.

Click here to view the photos from the event.

One of the most motivating and inspirational presentations was by our Forum Panel, entitled ‘Who’s got your back?’ it delved into the positive outcomes for both the individual and the business when peer support and learning is embraced.  The panel members shared real life tangible examples of financial savings, avoiding staffing and strategic planning pitfalls, managing family conflict and personal emotional support that has impacted positively on their professional development as leaders and contributed to their business success.

You can learn more about this at an upcoming Free information session on the 26^th of May, click here to register

We are going on air!…. watch this space.

In another first for WA and FBA the team from 101 Business Radio, attended the conference and recorded podcasts of the sessions, I will be circulating links to these in the coming weeks, so what out for some great content coming your way!  In the meantime you can listen online and catch some great interviews from other business leaders.

We are now gearing up for the main event on the Family Business Calendar, the FBA National Conference, registrations are now open and if you have any questions or need assistance with your registration please just give me a call.

I look forward to seeing you at one of our events in the very near future.

Lorraine Willis
WA State Manager