September 28 - Small Business Month, THRIVE, Digital Solutions & More!

OCTOBER SMALL BUSINESS MONTH
Learn, Connect & Grow

October is Small Business Month, with plenty of opportunities for local businesses to learn, connect and access practical support.

Throughout the month, businesses can take part in workshops, webinars, networking events and business support sessions covering topics including:

AI and digital skills
Marketing and social media
Business planning and strategy
Networking and connecting with other business owners
Practical business advice and support

Explore upcoming Small Business Month events and find an opportunity that’s right for your business.

BUSINESS EVENTS

THRIVE EVENT
Big Ideas Start Locally

What’s the one question about your business you wish you could ask an expert? THRIVE is bringing local experts together to provide practical answers, useful connections and smarter ways to move your business forward. Hear your questions explored by an expert panel, and discover practical tools, programs and resources to help you take your next step. Wednesday 14 October | 3pm–5pm | Wollondilly Civic Centre.

DIGITAL SOLUTIONS
Free Mentoring Program

Are you looking to strengthen your business digital skills? The Digital Solutions Program helps local small businesses build their digital skills. Eligible businesses can access up to 5 hours of one-on-one mentoring with an experienced digital coach, tailored to their business needs. Get practical help with digital marketing, social media, websites, online sales, business systems, AI, cybersecurity and more.

FIND OUT MORE & APPLY

BUSINESS PLANNING
Free 1-1 Advice

Do you need a little extra support to move your business forward? The Small Business Advisory Program provides eligible small businesses access to up to 4 hours of free, one-on-one advice from experienced business advisors. Get practical support with business planning, finance, AI and digital, marketing and staffing. Choose the format that works best for you - in person, online or over the phone.

FIND OUT MORE

ATO MASTERCLASSES
Strengthen Your Business

Are you looking to sharpen your business skills or thinking about starting a small business? The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) essentials to strengthen your small business is a free online learning platform with 30+ short courses covering cash flow, record keeping, GST, deductions, superannuation and more, with a series of free online masterclasses over the coming month.

FIND OUT MORE & REGISTER

ALLERGY AWARENESS
Guidelines & Resources

Whether you run a café, restaurant, takeaway, pub, or catering business, creating an allergy-aware experience can make a big difference for your customers. Food businesses must declare allergens on labels, display information where labelling isn’t required, or provide allergen information when requested. The NSW Food Authority offers free guidance and resources to help food businesses meet their responsibilities.

FIND OUT MORE

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Have Your Say

Wollondilly Council is drafting their Community Development Plan to help people connect, participate and feel like they belong. They want to know what’s working, what’s missing and what could improve - from community events and activities to volunteering, local groups, food access, walking and cycling. What would help you feel more connected? Share your thoughts on Your Say Wollondilly.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

CARD SURCHARGES
Changes from 1 October

From 1 October 2026, new rules around card payment surcharges and merchant fees will come into effect for Australian businesses. With just a few days to go, now is a good time to review your current payment arrangements and make sure your business is prepared. Find out what the changes could mean for your business and what you need to do to prepare.