MBF President Update April 2026
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Hi Everyone,
Small businesses in Australia are navigating a rapidly shifting landscape in 2026, with a strong focus on digital adoption, sustainability, and adapting to new consumer demands.
Some of the key new areas of interest for Australian small businesses are:
1. Artificial Intelligence and Automation Integration
Small businesses are increasingly using AI to enhance competitiveness, with over 55% of leaders believing it makes managing a business easier.
AI Marketing: Using AI tools for creating personalized, automated marketing campaigns.
Workflow Automation: Utilizing automation to handle administrative tasks and customer queries, allowing owners to focus on growth.
Cyber Resilience: As digital adoption increases, so does the focus on cyber security and data management.
2. Emerging High-Growth Sectors (2025–2026)
Sustainability & Green Services: High demand exists for eco-friendly products and services.
Pet Care Services: With rising pet ownership, specialized services such as grooming, dog walking, and mobile pet care are booming.
Health & Fitness: Boutique fitness studios and personalized, in-home wellness services remain in high demand.
NDIS & Aged Care Support: Businesses offering cleaning, gardening, and specialized home care are growing rapidly.
3. Digital Transformation and E-commerce
Social Commerce: Leveraging platforms like TikTok and Instagram for direct "social selling," allowing for product discovery and buying in one place.
Website Specialization: Demand is high for SEO services, custom WordPress web design, and AI-enabled CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce).
Digital Payments: Adoption of faster, more secure payment systems, including e-invoicing, to manage cash flow.
4. New Regulatory & Financial Focus Areas
"Buy Local" Focus: Strong consumer preference for local brands has led to a rise in "collective retail" models (shared retail space for makers).
Payment Times & Cash Flow: Increased focus on reducing payment times for small businesses to improve cash flow.
Funding Opportunities: Increased availability of non-traditional lending and specialized funding, alongside government grants for energy efficiency and Indigenous businesses.
5. Shift Toward Flexible Models
Mobile Services: Beauty therapists, pet groomers, and professionals are increasingly offering mobile services to meet clients at their homes or offices.
Work-from-Home (WFH) Specialization: Growth in virtual assisting, content writing, and remote customer support roles.
In many of these areas MBF is already so well positioned with our members interests and strengths that we can offer help to established and emerging businesses.
At our last April's event, Veronica Lind shared Port Macquarie's 2025-2035 Economic Strategy and what that Means for Your Business. You can download this strategy document here.
Again, don't forget to join us at our next events!
Thank you.
Alison Carroll
President
