September/October 2003

September/October 2003

Good Business Matters

A new information kit has been launched to help small business understand their responsibilities to consumers as well as boost their bottom line process. A copy of the kit is available from my office, upon request.

The Fact Sheets in the kit not only explain the impact of consumer protection laws on business operations, they also highlight ways business people can use ethical trading practices to cement customer relationships, in turn bolstering their profits.

I believe this package is informative reading for small business operators who want to ensure their enterprises continue to prosper in a competitive commercial environment.

Pollies for Small Business Day

Again this year I will be participating in Pollies for Small Business Day and will be at Stuart Bros Butchery in Kyogle and Flair in Casino on Wednesday 10 September and at Daleys Homewares in Lismore on Thursday 11 September 2003.

This is an opportunity for me to spend a few hours working in a small business in my local area, experiencing first hand some of the everyday pressures faced by small business operators as well as showing my support for this vital sector of the economy. Last year was the inaugural Pollies for Small Business Day and due to its resounding success, it has been announced with the support and partnership of Australia Post NSW/ACT Small Business Awards it will become an annual event.

Local Seniors Card Directory

I have recently contacted all Lismore Electorate businesses to advise them of the NSW Seniors Card Scheme, seeking their interest in participating and becoming a partner in this Scheme. All partners are listed in a directory produced by my office, which is circulated to as many Senior Cardholders as possible.

As my office is currently in the process of updating this publication, I have written to all existing partners advising of their directory listing and details, requesting their feedback of alterations or changes.

This process is nearing completion and your communication with my office in this regard would be greatly appreciated.

Property Law Reforms

Earlier this month, the Property, Stock and Business Agents Act 2003, came into effect with important changes to the way property agents conduct business in NSW. The new Act supports consumer confidence in the Real Estate industry by introducing requirements aimed at raising the competency and professionalism of agents.

To help consumers and industry understand the new reforms, the Office of Fair Trading is running a hotline to answer queries on 1800 649 516 or more details are available online at www.dft.nsw.gov.au, following the prompts to `Property Law reforms'.