11/05/2026
Costs up, spending down: the reality for Australian SMEs
Australian SMEs are navigating one of the toughest operating environments in years. Interest rates have risen to 4.35%, increasing borrowing costs while consumer spending continues to soften under cost-of-living pressure. At the same time, inflation and global fuel shocks are pushing up input costs, tightening already stretched margins.
New risks are also emerging. Chargeback scams and payment fraud are rising, directly impacting cash flow and adding administrative burden. Overlay this with ongoing productivity challenges and uncertainty ahead of tomorrow’s Federal Budget, and many businesses are delaying investment and hiring decisions.
In this environment, cash flow visibility, cost control and proactive tax planning are critical. Small adjustments now can significantly improve resilience over the next 6–12 months.
SBS Business Advisors and Tax Specialists