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Bunbury: small business supports in your area

The nature of small business has changed dramatically due to COVID-19, with an increase in web-based business, social distancing and economic burdens. To deal with these challenges and build resilience it’s important to reach out for support.

This page provides you with information on some of the support services available in your area, whether it is for mental health, business support or help with managing adversity and building resilience.

Social support

Seeking social support by connecting with other small business owners is a great way to look after yourself. Consider joining a local business networking group to discuss the challenges of running a business. Some networking groups in your area:

  • Bunbury Business Club: a network of local Bunbury businesses that meet every other Friday to encourage one another and share ideas and knowledge.
  • Network South West Business Club: a fun and informative business networking group to help you support your business.

Business support

The small business environment has changed significantly over the past 12 months, and you may be looking for support to adapt to these changes. Have a look at the below supports to help keep your business on track.

  • Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry: can assist you in all business matters and provides you with access to a strong business network offering support and assistance.
  • Business Advisory South West and Peel: provides free advice and workshops to small businesses and start-ups. These services can be tailored to your needs to help your business grow and adapt.
  • BSW Connect: offer networking opportunities, events, and Biz Assist, which provides you with high quality specialist advice on your business.
  • Grant Finder: the City of Bunbury has set up a grant finder for small business owners. Simply enter your key words and find business grants you may be eligible for.

Mental health support

Whether you are stressed and worried about your business, or feeling sad and down about things happening in your personal life, it is helpful to talk to someone. Take a look at some of sites below that can direct you to the most relevant service.

  • My Community Directory: a resource directory where you can search for a variety of mental health services in Western Australia.
  • South West Wellbeing Centre: provide counselling and psychological services to promote overall wellbeing – including mental health, physical health, emotional health and social connectedness.

Bushfire and emergency support

Emergencies and disasters such as bushfires, floods, and storms can affect your home or business without warning, and can cause a great deal of distress. As a small business owner there are services you can access to help support your mental health, as well as services that provide practical support for your business. Some resources that might be relevant to you:

  • Bushfire and emergency management: the City of Bunbury has prepared a list of plans and structures for if an emergency affects your area. Take a look at these plans so you can be prepared.
  • Disaster recovery funding arrangements: take a look at the supports available to small businesses following a variety of natural disasters.

COVID-19 support

COVID-19 has had a massive impact on businesses across the world, particularly small business owners. Living in Western Australia means you were shut off from the rest of the country (and the world) for a while, and this can be difficult for small businesses reliant on tourism. Below are some services available to help small businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19.

  • Small Business Development Corporation: the WA Government announced measures to support small business during the coronavirus pandemic.
  • Support for businesses: information on financial relief measures for business, including how to apply.
  • Support for mental health: take a look at the mental health supports the Australian Government is funding for small business owners.

Have we missed anything?

Do you know of a free support service that would be useful for small business owners in Bunbury? Please email us on [email protected] and let us know.


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