RSM has announced it will provide free, specialist small business support in regional Western Australia as part of the State Government’s Business Local service. RSM was chosen as one of eight key providers and will cover four of the 12 regions, including the Wheatbelt, Mid-West, Gascoyne and Pilbara. 

Business Local is a new initiative of the Small Business Development Corporation to streamline the delivery of small business advisory services across Western Australia via providers like RSM. Business Local services are available free of charge to all businesses, at all stages of development. 

Travis Bate, Principal, RSM, said, “Through Business Local, RSM will provide one point of contact for existing small businesses as well as new and emerging start-ups in the Wheatbelt, Mid-West, Gascoyne and Pilbara regions. Business owners will have face-to-face contact with advisers, as well as online and phone support. 

“RSM will aim to equip and empower small business owners and managers with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively analyse their business model, practices and financial position. Because most small business owners don’t necessarily come from a finance background, this kind of advice can prove invaluable.”

RSM will hire additional local advisers to ensure small business owners get the help they need, when they need it.  

Travis Bate said, “Advisers will visit small business owners to provide the most appropriate and well-informed advice. This initiative is a perfect fit for RSM, complementing the accounting and business advisory services it has provided to WA businesses for the past 90 years. 

“As WA’s largest regional accounting services supplier, RSM has 46 Partners and Principals and close to 400 staff in regional WA alone. The expert team members live and work in these regional areas, so they understand the unique challenges and opportunities small business owners face.  

RSM’s main objective with Business Local is to develop a strong, vibrant small business sector in regional WA. This initiative will let the team engage with the local community to improve their business acumen. As well as one-on-one coaching, participants can attend tailored business workshops and events, and access online resources”.

RSM, through Business Local, will provide expert advice on issues including contractual governance, improving business sustainability and diversifying business activities. 

Travis Bate said, “Because the initiative is state government funded, there is no cost to the business owners themselves. This provides a unique opportunity to get high-quality, expert advice without having to bear the cost”.

Business owners can access RSM Business Local by calling 1800 249 562 or emailing business [email protected].