Make a big difference by backing small business

The money you spend with a small business counts – paying for bills and wages to keep them afloat.

The latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed that 35% of Australian businesses expect to find it difficult to meet financial commitments over the next three months.

So, as we approach the end of the year and more businesses start to reopen across the country, consumers can make a real difference by shopping local this festive season.

Buy local

Whether it’s for gift-giving or festive entertaining, buying from small, independent businesses – in-store or online – is a great way to support your community and find more unique gifts.

Now is the perfect time to get ahead and put in an order with your local butcher or greengrocer for those end-of-year entertaining opportunities.

Gift vouchers and credit notes also make great gifts, while also supporting businesses who may have had to reduce their business activity due to coronavirus.

Refer a friend

If you’ve had an enjoyable experience with a small business, why not spread the joy by leaving a review or follow the company on social media and like and share their posts.

Word of mouth is vital for small businesses, and your feedback can help to influence other shoppers and generate even more business for them.

Help is available

If you are one of the 35% of businesses needing help with your financial commitments, assistance is available through various lenders and government schemes.

You can find out more about funding and support schemes on the government's coronavirus business support website or speak to a Liberty Adviser.