Running a business
Backups your business can actually restore
A backup only helps when it contains what you need and you can restore it after a lost device, mistake or cyber incident.
2 min read
Explore by topic
Running & growing a business
Day-to-day operations and deliberate growth. Choose a guide for context, then use a worksheet or calculator when it helps with a specific decision.
Guides and lessons
Understanding your numbers
Budget vs actual: what changed and why?
A budget is your plan. Actual results show what happened. The difference helps you learn which assumptions to change.
2 min read
Running a business
How do I know if a job is profitable?
A job can bring in cash and still earn too little after materials, labour, rework and the business costs shared across jobs.
2 min read
Running a business
How to agree supplier payment terms that work
The cheapest supplier may not be the best fit if its payment date arrives long before customers pay you.
2 min read
Cash flow
How to improve cash flow without borrowing
Cash pressure often comes from timing and processes you can improve before taking on repayments.
2 min read
Business under pressure
I can't pay my suppliers: what should I do first?
A missed supplier payment can interrupt trading. Work out the shortfall, speak to suppliers early and seek qualified help if the business may not pay debts when due.
2 min read
Cash flow
Is too much stock tying up your cash?
Stock can look like an asset on the balance sheet while leaving too little cash for bills. Review what sells, how quickly and when you must reorder.
2 min read
Running a business
Set prices that cover your costs
A price must make sense to your customer and cover more than the direct cost of a job. Start with your costs, then test the market and review the result.
2 min read
Running a business
Should I buy equipment with cash, a loan or a lease?
Paying cash avoids interest but uses working capital. A chattel mortgage lets you own the asset while you pay it off, and leases let you use it without owning it. Tax and GST treatment differ, so check with your accountant.
6 min read
Running a business
What can I do when customers pay invoices late?
Start with clear payment terms, prompt and accurate invoices, and a set collection process. If a customer still won't pay, ASBFEO can help with disputes. Invoice finance is one option if slow payment is a regular timing gap.
5 min read
Running a business
What does an employee really cost?
The wage is only one part of a hiring decision. Budget for applicable super, leave, insurance, equipment, training and the cash timing.
2 min read
Running a business
What type of accountant or adviser does my business need?
A bookkeeper keeps your records, a registered BAS agent handles your BAS, a registered tax agent handles tax, and an accountant helps with the bigger financial picture. Titles like business accountant or CFO describe a role, so check the registration or membership behind the title.
9 min read
Templates
SWOT analysis templateTurn strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats into a short action plan.Open template Invoice planning templatePrepare the information needed for a clear Australian business invoice.Open template Supplier review checklistCompare suppliers on total cost, reliability, terms and concentration risk.Open template Annual business review checklistReview what changed in customers, profit, cash, people and risk before planning the next year.Open template