Spring is a time when our community shines brightly. In the past few weeks, I have been at sporting finals, street fairs and school celebrations across the Willoughby electorate. 

At the same time, many in our community are doing it tough. Cost of living continues to be a big challenge and far too often I hear that a local small business is closing.

Small businesses are the backbone of communities across our state and certainly here in Willoughby.

As the newly appointed Shadow Minister for Small Business, I am committed to working for small and family businesses across NSW to ensure they receive the understanding, support and opportunities they deserve.

While in Government, the Coalition established the Micro Business Grant, appointed a Small Business Commissioner, raised the payroll tax threshold, established the Service NSW Business Concierge and focused on delivering cost-of-living relief that allowed consumers more disposable income to spend on local businesses.

Unfortunately, the recent situation for small businesses has become increasingly dire. Cost pressures and historic low consumer confidence has led to a 41% increase in business insolvencies.   

The current lack of support for small businesses from both state and federal Governments is unacceptable.

October is Small Business Month. There are great businesses across Willoughby and I was delighted to celebrate their achievements at the 2024 North Shore Local Business Awards Presentation Evening.

These awards highlight the dedication, innovation and resilience of our local entrepreneurs.

I also recently had the pleasure of attending the opening of Momo Adda, a new Nepalese street food restaurant in Artarmon.

It is an honour to be given the responsibility of championing small businesses like Momo Adda that showcase the rich diversity of our area.

I acknowledge that many households are cutting back as cost-of-living hurts. But if you can spend a little more, go local this October.