Peak body seeks input from business owners to strengthen advocacy efforts ahead of key policy decisions
The Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) has launched its annual Small Business Perspectives Survey, urging business owners nationwide to participate in what could directly influence government policy affecting their operations.
The survey, which opened this week, serves as COSBOA’s primary tool for gathering real-world data from small business operators to inform its advocacy work with federal and state governments.
Direct line to policy makers
COSBOA uses survey findings to advocate for better policies, highlight daily challenges faced by small businesses, and push for regulatory changes that make practical sense. The organisation emphasises that business owners’ real-world experiences provide insights that can’t be found in government statistics or reports.
“The issues you’ve experienced – whether it’s unfair payment terms, regulatory burden, or market pressures – need to be documented and shared with decision-makers,” COSBOA states.
Previous surveys have contributed to successful advocacy campaigns around payment terms legislation, regulatory burden reduction, and market competition reforms.
The survey is designed to take just minutes to complete while potentially delivering significant impact on the small business policy landscape. COSBOA is leveraging its network of member organisations to maximise participation across different industry sectors and regions.
The timing aligns with key government budget and policy cycles, ensuring findings can be incorporated into relevant advocacy activities throughout the year, including pre-budget submissions and responses to regulatory proposals.
Making voices count
The organisation’s evidence-based approach has proven effective in demonstrating to policymakers the real-world impacts of government decisions on business viability and growth. Higher participation rates strengthen COSBOA’s credibility when presenting evidence to government stakeholders.
Small business owners can access the survey through COSBOA’s networks, with technical support available through Survey Matters at support@surveymatters.com.au or 61 3 9452 0101.
The survey remains open for participation, with COSBOA encouraging all small business owners to contribute their perspectives to influence policy development that affects their daily operations.
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