66479 (2024). Helen White to the Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing

66479 (2024). Helen White to the Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing: What advice, if any, can the Minister offer to small businesses who are experiencing financial difficulties due to ongoing and now increasing late payment of their invoices?

Hon Andrew Bayly: I encourage any business needing to deal with late payments to explore the full range of options available to them. This can range from bringing the matter to the customer’s attention, to seeking recourse in the courts. When it comes to managing tight cashflow, I would encourage businesses to tap into the expertise and contacts offered by local networks such as Regional Business Partners, Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Agencies. Banks, accountants and credit agencies can also offer useful advice. Finally, if the issue lies with a government agency, I would encourage the business concerned to contact that agency and ask why the payment is delayed. This Government has made it clear that its agencies must pay their invoices on time, unless there is good reason.