Renowned for pairing cutting-edge technology with everyday business efficiency, Epson will showcase its latest label and receipt printing solutions at the Restaurant & Foodservice Show 2026, part of Food & Hospitality Week, from Monday 25 May to Wednesday 27 May 2026 at the ICC Sydney.

Epson will be exhibiting on stand M53, where visitors can experience how its advanced printing technologies help hospitality and foodservice businesses improve quality, consistency and customer experience from the kitchen to the counter.

Established in 1967, the Restaurant & Foodservice Show has long been the leading event for Australia’s hospitality and foodservice industry, showcasing the latest technology, equipment and innovations that keep kitchens, cafés and restaurants running at their best.

Epson’s presence at this year’s show aligns perfectly with the event’s theme of innovation, reliability and efficiency by demonstrating products designed to boost workflow, enable compliance and support seamless guest experiences.

On display at the Epson stand will be a range of professional label and receipt printers tailored to the foodservice sector.

These include the Epson ColorWorks CW‑C4010, which brings on‑demand colour label printing to the kitchen, bar or packaging area. Designed for food and beverage environments, it enables restaurants, caterers and producers to print vivid, high‑resolution colour labels for ingredient, allergen or branding applications directly on site.

Its compact footprint, exceptional reliability and durable pigment inks make it ideal for compliance labelling, specialty products and craft food packaging where professional presentation and accuracy matter.

Epson CW‑C6510

Also on the stand will be the ColorWorks CW‑C6510 which brings fast, reliable, on‑demand colour labelling to restaurant and foodservice operations, making it easy to upgrade from black‑and‑white thermal transfer to vibrant, brand‑forward labels without disrupting existing workflows. With media handling and connectivity designed for seamless integration, the CW‑C6510 delivers sharp text and precise barcodes via PrecisionCore TFP technology and up to 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution, producing a wide colour gamut, smooth gradations and fine image detail for everything from complex informational labels to high‑quality product and to‑go labels. Ideal for large-scale and high‑mix, low‑volume applications alike, it helps streamline back‑of‑house organisation, improve order accuracy and reduce label inventory and waste through just‑in‑time printing, supporting operational efficiency while strengthening brand identity.

Epson TM‑L100

Then, purpose‑built for the foodservice industry will be the TM‑L100, a liner‑free label printer ideal for food prep, order identification and delivery packaging.

Compatible with leading point‑of‑sale (POS) and online ordering systems, it allows fast, mess‑free labelling that helps eliminate order errors, improve kitchen efficiency and ensure transparent ingredient tracking. With Epson’s reputation for reliability, it’s the standard in busy kitchen environments where every second counts.

Epson TM‑m30III

Finally, blending form and function, will be the TM‑m30III compact receipt printer which is designed for modern hospitality counters, cafés, bars and quick‑service environments.

Its stylish cube design fits seamlessly into contemporary spaces, while advanced connectivity options — including USB‑C, Ethernet, Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi — make it simple to integrate with POS systems, tablets and smart devices. Fast, silent and reliable, it ensures seamless service from order to payment.

Epson’s solutions are designed to help foodservice operators deliver consistent quality, comply with evolving labelling requirements and create a more sustainable, efficient and connected business.

Visitors and attendees to the Restaurant & Foodservice Show will see exactly how Epson printers help chefs, retailers and suppliers streamline operations while enhancing presentation and customer trust.

About the Restaurant & Foodservice Show 2026

Location: ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour

Dates: Monday 25 – Wednesday 27 May 2026

Epson stand M53

Show times:

Monday 25 May: 10am – 5pm

Tuesday 26 May: 10am – 5pm

Wednesday 27 May: 10am – 4pm

More information at https://fhweek.com.au/restaurantfoodserviceshow/

HP Inc. has announced the Australian launch of its next-generation commercial and consumer portfolio, powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra Series 3 processors. Work has changed, and HP is built for what’s next. The new lineup connects AI-powered devices, smarter collaboration tools and creative technologies into one seamless ecosystem, keeping Australians productive, secure and performing at their best. 

Spanning the OmniBook, OmniStudio, EliteBook and Hyper X OMEN portfolios, the new devices combine powerful CPUs, advanced graphics and dedicated AI engines that intelligently handle tasks in the background. This enables smoother multitasking, faster content creation, improved video calls and more personalised experiences, cutting friction and freeing up time for the work that actually matters.  

The Future of Work, in the Real World

Work today happens everywhere. HP is redefining the Future of Work with secure, AI-powered devices designed to support productivity and collaboration across hybrid environments. Whether at home, in the office or on the move, these devices adapt to how people work, helping them stay focused, connected and in control. 

Work no longer fits neatly into a single place, role or nine‑to‑five day and technology needs to adapt to people, not the other way around,” said Brad Pulford, Managing Director, HP Australia and New Zealand. “At HP, we believe the future of work is human‑centric and flexible, powered by intelligent technology that helps people stay productive, creative and connected wherever work happens. Our next‑generation portfolio brings this to life by combining AI‑powered performance with a seamlessly connected ecosystem, so work feels simpler, more intuitive and more secure 

Powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra Series 3

At the core of the portfolio are Intel’s latest processors, engineered to deliver next-generation performance. With dedicated AI acceleration built directly into the processor, these devices can run AI tasks locally, enabling faster response times, improved efficiency and enhanced privacy. 

This architecture also enables more efficient power usage, supporting longer battery life across devices so users can stay productive, creative and connected throughout the day without interruption. 

“Together with HP, we’re helping shape the future of work through AI-powered PCs designed for how people work today. Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors deliver strong performance, improved efficiency and built-in AI capabilities that support smarter multitasking, faster content creation and more responsive computing experiences, on a device that lasts more than a day,” said Glen Boatwright, Country Manager, Intel Australia and New Zealand. 

“Combined with HP’s innovation and ecosystem, we’re delivering technology that not only meets today’s workplace needs but is ready for the next wave of AI-driven productivity.”

Designed for creativity and everyday use

Leading the consumer lineup, the OmniStudio X 27 All-in-One and OmniBook Ultra 14 are built to keep up with how people create, stream and multitask every day. 

The OmniStudio X 27 features a 27-inch QHD display with vibrant colour accuracy and optional NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ graphics, delivering smooth performance across creative projects, entertainment and everyday tasks. 

The OmniBook Ultra 14 brings the same power into a sleek, ultra-portable design, combining Intel next-gen AI performance with a 3K OLED display, AI-powered collaboration tools and all-day battery life with fast charge capability. From the studio to the commute, it’s built for professionals and creators who work hard and play hard. 

Built for modern work

For professionals, the HP EliteBook X G2i Flip delivers flexibility, performance and security in a lightweight, adaptable design. Powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra series 3 processors, it combines intelligent performance, long battery life and built-in AI collaboration tools, enabling seamless productivity across hybrid work environments. 

HP is expanding its AI-powered lineup with the new HP ZBook X G2i Mobile Workstation. It is built for creators and professionals who need strong performance while working on the go. With the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra series 3 processors and optional NVIDIA RTX PRO Blackwell graphics, it is designed to handle demanding work like 3D design, video editing, and AI tasks. 

As a Copilot+ PC, the ZBook X G2i also offers fast local AI processing, helpful collaboration features, Wi-Fi 7, and long battery life. Its portable design, recycled materials, and focus on sustainability make it a practical choice for people who want power and mobility in one device. 

Work hard, play hard

Modern users expect devices that support both productivity and personal passions. Building on updates announced at CES 2026, HP is entering a new era for performance experiences, bringing together OMEN and HyperX under one unified HyperX master brand to deliver a seamless, end-to-end ecosystem across devices, displays and accessories.  

By combining OMEN’s high-performance systems with HyperX’s expertise in peripherals and immersive technologies, HP is delivering more powerful, personalised and connected experiences whether users are creating or unwinding.  

Together, these innovations reflect HP’s commitment to delivering a connected ecosystem of devices and experiences that simplify modern workflows and support how people work, create and play. 

Product Availability and  pricing

• Omnistudio X 278 – Available now on Hp.com from end of May for $2,899.00 AUD 
• OmniBook Ultra 14 –  Available now on Hp.com $4,499 AUD 
• EliteBook X G2i  Available now on Hp.com from prices start at $4,500 AUD 
• ZBook X G2i – Available late may and pricing will start at $6,500 AUD  

Global power protection specialist CyberPower Systems has enhanced its Power Distribution Units (PDUs) range in Australia with new models designed to meet growing demand for reliable, high‑density rack power distribution in today’s data‑driven environments.

The new PDU41004, PDU41005, PDU44004 and PDU44005 models extend CyberPower’s rack power portfolio, providing practical, scalable solutions for IT managers, systems integrators, managed service providers and data centre operators looking for dependable and cost‑effective rack power that integrates seamlessly alongside CyberPower UPS infrastructure.

CyberPower PDUs are designed for today’s high‑density, high‑demand environments. As server racks become more densely populated and edge computing deployments expand, modern IT environments need dependable, space‑efficient power delivery that minimises complexity. The new PDU models address this directly, offering reliable rack power for comms rooms, network cabinets and data‑centre racks.

CyberPower Systems Oceania GM ANZ Robert Hartvigsen said, “Our new PDU models deliver dependable, consistent rack power that just works. They are engineered for simplicity, reliability and seamless integration with UPS systems, giving IT teams confidence in their rack infrastructure.”

The four new PDU models provide a trusted solution for growing equipment density, pairing compact design with single‑phase input support and durable metal construction.

For scalable operations, new 32‑amp variants offer higher load capacities across wider network deployments.

Rack power key features and advantages

The PDU41004, PDU41005, PDU44004 and PDU44005 are suited for professional rack installations from SMB through to enterprise systems.

Core specifications include:

• Rack‑mountable design optimised for space efficiency

• Multiple IEC output sockets for server and network hardware

• Robust metal housing for durability

• Reliable single‑phase power distribution

• Compatibility with the CyberPower UPS ecosystem

• Support for higher‑capacity 32‑amp configurations for scaling environments

Rack power product features and highlights include:

• Seamless pairing with CyberPower UPS solutions

• Reliable distribution for business‑critical equipment

• Compact and rugged rack design

• Strong value without compromising quality

• Ideal for comms cabinets, data centres and edge sites

Customers across professional IT, MSP and enterprise environments are facing increasing rack equipment density and tighter turnaround expectations. These PDUs provide simple, dependable power distribution which is ideal when intelligent switching is unnecessary but quality and operational reliability are critical. Also, by aligning with CyberPower’s UPS range, the new models enable standardised, end‑to‑end rack power infrastructure, simplifying procurement and long‑term maintenance.

For systems integrators and resellers, the family also broadens the ability to offer complete rack power packages under a single, trusted brand, strengthening CyberPower’s position in the power ecosystem.

For CyberPower, the new models strengthen its reputation as a complete rack power infrastructure provider, not just a UPS vendor.

In short, for customers, the new PDUs mean more consistent, reliable rack power distribution, simplified sourcing and deployment, scalable 32‑amp options for higher‑load environments and confidence in globally recognised power protection technology.

Robert Hartvigsen concluded, “By combining trusted reliability with scalable design, our PDUs help partners and customers build better‑performing, more consistent infrastructure.”

The new CyberPower PDU41004, PDU41005, PDU44004, and PDU44005 are available now through authorised CyberPower distributors and resellers.

For more information on all the products in the CyberPower PDU range go to:

PDU41004 | CyberPower

PDU41005 | CyberPower

PDU44004 | CyberPower

PDU44005 | CyberPower

To read the CyberPower PDU Buying Guide go to:

https://www.cyberpower.com/au/en/knowledge/buying-guide/pdu

For more information on Power Distribution go to:

Power Distribution – Power Distribution Unit (PDU) | CyberPower

For more information on Power Distribution and Data Centre Management Efficiency go to:Understanding PDU Data to Enhance Data Centre Management Efficiency | CyberPower

Epson is encouraging Australian households and home office users to rethink how they print, with the launch of its latest EcoTank models — the ET-1910, ET-2910 and ET-2911 — designed to replace traditional cartridge and laser printers with a more cost-effective, convenient and sustainable printing solution.

As cost-of-living pressures rise, many consumers continue to overlook the long-term cost of ownership associated with cartridge and laser printers, from frequent ink replacements to expensive toner and maintenance. Epson EcoTank printers are built to challenge this model, offering a smarter alternative that dramatically reduces printing costs over time.

Traditional printing systems rely on small, expensive consumables, whether it’s ink cartridges that run out quickly or laser toner systems that come with high upfront and replacement costs.

EcoTank changes this equation entirely.

ET-1910

The ET-1910, ET-2910 and ET-2911 feature Epson’s innovative refillable ink tank system, designed to deliver ultra low-cost printing without the hassle of cartridges or the complexity of laser technology. With high-capacity ink bottles included in the box, users can print for extended periods without needing to replace supplies.

EcoTank is designed with one clear advantage – lower total cost of ownership over time. Users can save up to 90% on printing costs compared to cartridge-based printers¹, while avoiding the expensive toner replacements often associated with laser devices.

Each EcoTank printer comes with enough ink to print thousands of pages, significantly reducing the need to purchase replacement supplies early on.

This makes EcoTank printing solution particularly appealing for:

•           Families with ongoing school printing needs

•           Hybrid workers managing home office tasks

•           Small businesses watching operational costs

Beyond the cost benefits, EcoTank delivers a simpler, more user-friendly experience:

•           No cartridges to replace

•           Mess-free, easy-refill ink bottles

•           Less frequent maintenance and interruptions

ET-2911

The ET-2910 and ET-2911 offer additional versatility with print, scan and copy functionality, along with wireless connectivity for seamless mobile and home network printing.

Meanwhile, the ET-1910 provides a straightforward, reliable print-only solution for users who want maximum value with minimal complexity.

Designed to meet the needs of today’s connected homes, the new EcoTank printing solution models combine:

•           Compact, space-saving design

•           Reliable everyday performance

•           Simple setup and operation

Whether printing school assignments, household documents or work materials, EcoTank gives users the confidence to print freely without worrying about running out of ink or overspending on replacements.

“Many households are still stuck in the cycle of buying cartridges or dealing with the cost and complexity of laser printers,” said Phil Daidone, Senior Product Manager at Epson Australia. “With EcoTank, we’re giving customers a better alternative, one that eliminates that cycle entirely. The ET-1910, ET-2910 and ET-2911 are designed to make printing more affordable, more convenient and ultimately more sustainable over the long term.”

In addition to saving money, moving away from cartridges and laser consumables supports a more sustainable approach to printing. EcoTank significantly reduces plastic waste and ongoing consumables, making it a more responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

The Epson EcoTank ET-1910, ET-2910 and ET-2911 are now available at www.epson.com.au and through retail stores nationwide.

Epson EcoTank ET-1910

Main function – printing
Connectivity – Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct and Apple AirPrint

Print speed – 11 pages per minute black² and white, 6 pages in colour²

Number of printed pages out of the box – 3,600³ black / 6,500³ colour

RRP $299.00

Epson EcoTank ET-2910 (white model) and ET-2911 (black model)

Main functions – print, copy and scan

Connectivity – Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct and Apple AirPrint

Print speed – 11 pages per minute black² and white, 6 pages in colour²

Number of printed pages out of the box – 3,600³ black / 6,500³ colour

RRP $399.00

Jabra has announced the Jabra PanaCast U30, a USB video bar built for bring-your-own-device (BYOD) collaboration in small meeting spaces and huddle rooms for up to 6 people. Combining intelligent video technology, professional audio performance and simplified deployment in a compact device, it delivers a simple and affordable way to equip more small rooms for high-quality hybrid meetings.

Many organisations want to support video collaboration in every meeting space, but equipping smaller rooms can be difficult due to cost and complexity. As a result, many rooms still lack the technology needed for effective hybrid meetings.

“Small meeting spaces are where many of the most important conversations happen,” says Holger Reisinger, Senior Vice President, Jabra Video Business Unit. “As teams look to support hybrid work, there’s a growing need to make more of these spaces meeting-ready. With the Jabra PanaCast U30, we’re delivering intelligent video and professional audio in a compact, easy-to-deploy solution that makes it easier to equip more small rooms for video meetings.”

Built for a simple BYOD experience

The system is designed for a better BYOD experience that allows users to walk into a room, connect their own device with a single USB-C cable and start the meeting using their preferred platform, including Microsoft Teams and Zoom.

Before they even connect, the room display shows built-in wallpapers with clear on-screen instructions, guiding users so meetings can begin without delay and reducing support requests. In an upcoming release, customers will be able to create and upload their own custom wallpaper to the system’s home screen through Jabra Plus.

Wide coverage and intelligent video for small rooms

Video performance is optimised for small spaces through a wide 120° field of view (FoV), ensuring participants around the table are fully in view, even in more compact room layouts.

Features such as Intelligent Zoom, Virtual Director and Dynamic Composition automatically follow the conversation in the room, adjusting the view as people speak to keep participants clearly in frame.

Combined with a built-in speaker and six microphones, the system delivers full-duplex, room-filling Jabra audio so conversations feel natural and fluid, with every voice clearly heard both in the room and on the call.

Designed to reduce complexity and speed up deployment

Rolling out video collaboration across multiple small meeting spaces requires solutions that are fast to install and easy to support. Multiple mounting options, including wall, VESA and table stand, allow the system to adapt to different room layouts and requirements.

The packaging allows key components to be accessed and configured without removing the device from the box, while integrated cable routing and on-device guidance help ensure clean, repeatable setups across rooms.

Ongoing management is equally simple. With Jabra Plus, IT teams can monitor device health, deploy updates and manage multiple rooms from a single interface. The PanaCast U30 can be managed over the network or directly via USB, giving IT teams flexible control depending on their environment. For settings that require offline control, firmware updates can also be performed locally, supporting security-conscious organisations without adding operational complexity.

What’s included in the Jabra PanaCast U30

• BYOD experience

Connect any device with a single USB-C cable and start meetings instantly right out of the box, removing the complexity of multiple cables.

• Wide-angle video

A 120° field of view ensures everyone is clearly visible, even in compact meeting spaces.

• Intelligent Video Modes

AI-powered video features automatically follow the conversation, keeping participants clearly in frame.

• Professional audio performance

Delivers rich, room-filling sound so every voice is clearly heard.

• Simple, repeatable deployment

Packaging is designed to allow fast configuration, with flexible mounting options and clean cable management for consistent installation across multiple rooms.

• Secure and easy management

PanaCast U30 is an MDEP-based solution (Microsoft Device Ecosystem Platform), delivering strengthened security and enhanced meetings experiences. On-screen guidance helps users get started, while the Jabra Plus app enables simple remote management with local update options for secure environments.

New research from Intuit’s 2026 AI Impact Report reveals artificial intelligence is playing a central role in driving growth, boosting productivity, and supporting job creation across small and mid-sized businesses.

The report draws on one of the largest datasets of its kind, combining anonymised administrative data from more than 5.3 million businesses using QuickBooks, alongside surveys of more than 34,000 businesses in Australia, US, UK and Canada.

The findings provide a real-world view of how AI is primarily being adopted as a tool for business expansion and operational efficiency rather than as a mechanism for broad labour reduction or simple cost-cutting.

A shift in the narrative on jobs

The report challenges the idea that AI is primarily a threat to jobs. Across all four markets, more businesses report increasing employment as a result of AI than reducing it.

In Australia, 19% of businesses using AI report increased employment, compared to just 6% reporting declines. Similar patterns are seen internationally, pointing to a broader trend of AI enabling, rather than replacing, human work.

Key findings:

• AI adoption is now mainstream: Around 69% of businesses in Australia report using AI regularly (versus 70%  in the UK, 77% in the US, 69% in Canada).
• Strong productivity gains: 79% of Australian SMBs using AI report productivity gains – compared to 78% in the US and 73% in the UK. This is a significant jump from 37% in mid-2024
• Revenue growth: Around 43% of Aussie businesses report increased revenue as a result of AI, while only a small minority (3-4%) report declines.
• AI is becoming embedded in operations: Around 12% of businesses say AI is now a core part of how they run their business.

Rapid acceleration in adoption

Australian businesses have not only embraced AI, they’ve been quick on the uptake. Regular AI adoption among Australian SMBs has nearly doubled in 18 months, from 40% in July 2024 to 69% in January 2026. Daily AI usage has almost tripled in the same time frame, jumping from 9% to 28%.

As of January 2026, 69% report they’ve adopted AI in their business, and use of AI in accounting, admin, and marketing tasks has become the norm.

Driving efficiency, revenue and growth

This is translating into tangible operational benefits, with the most positive impacts cited from AI use being revenue, and then efficiency both in costs and workday length.

• 43% of Australian businesses said AI had increased revenue
• A quarter of businesses report reduced costs
• 19% of businesses using AI report increased employment, compared to just 6% reporting declines

Barriers to AI Adoption

For many Australian small businesses, the challenge isn’t accessing AI, it’s knowing how to use it safely and effectively. At 39%, privacy and security concerns are the number one reported barrier. And while these hesitations top the list in every country, it’s more prevalent in Australia than in the US (36%), the UK (35%), and Canada (36%).

Energy continues to be a top concern for small businesses across the country. Rising energy costs, coupled with ongoing economic pressure, are forcing small businesses to rethink when and how they use power.

Recent figures reveal that a third of small businesses report financial strain when paying energy bills, and nearly half are worried about what comes next.

For many businesses including cafés, retail stores, and manufacturers, energy usage peaks when doors are open, customers are enjoying their stay, and operations are in full swing. However, traditional energy plans are often designed around off-peak or residential patterns, which rarely reflect daytime demand.

Hayden Barry, Managing Director at Australian energy retailer, Nectr, says that small businesses need energy solutions that meet the energy needs of their operations.

“Business owners are often strapped for time, so a ‘set and forget’ approach is usually the way energy is handled. But, by understanding the unique pressures businesses face day to day, and working with a specialist to design an energy plan that works in step with how they actually use energy, can mean a huge saving in the long run.”

What can businesses do right now to reduce their rising energy costs?

1. Review your current energy plan: Regularly comparing providers and plans via www.energymadeeasy.gov.au/ can help unlock immediate savings. Review your current rates and compare the latest deals available specifically for small the medium businesses. Or speak with small business energy experts for an energy audit of your business.

2. Understand your usage patterns: Identify when your energy demand peaks and your business’ energy habits. Consider how you might reduce power usage and times when peak power is essential.

3. Upgrade to energy-efficient equipment: Appliances, lighting, and machinery with higher efficiency ratings can significantly reduce consumption over time. Considering investing in energy efficient equipment for long-term savings.

4. Invest in smart technology: Knowledge is power and using timers, smart meters, and energy management systems can help monitor energy usage in real time, and address how energy can be better managed or how energy wastage can be rectified.

5. Reduce standby power: Lighting, refrigerators and other equipment that is left on overnight or outside business hours can quietly drive up costs. Use timers, senor lights or change energy habits to ensure that energy isn’t used unnecessarily and adding to your power bill.

6. Explore renewable options: Energy derived from renewable sources such as solar, are considered the cheapest form of energy. Solar and battery systems can be a game-changer for businesses by offsetting daytime energy spikes and providing longer-term savings.

Every dollar counts when you’re running a small business, so signing up for an energy plan that is built for small businesses with high daytime energy usage is an easy way to improve savings.

With the right plan and a more proactive approach to energy management, small businesses can regain control of their energy for strategic business advantage.

Contact Nectr SME energy specialists at www.nectr.com.au/business-services/

The idea of the ‘safe job’ is shifting, with new research from Shopify revealing that entrepreneurship is increasingly seen as a more financially secure alternative to traditional employment. 

The global survey of 2,000 business owners and senior decision-makers, including more than 400 from Australia, examined changing perceptions of entrepreneurship, financial security and career risk. It found that 40% of Australian business leaders see running a business as more financially secure than working a traditional job, compared to just 18% who say the same about traditional employment. This is despite most still associating traditional employment with long-term stability, with nearly three-quarters (73%) feeling this way. 

However, while entrepreneurship is associated with greater financial confidence, over two-thirds (69%) of business leaders say they would consider returning to traditional employment if economic conditions worsen, highlighting an ongoing tension between perceived opportunity and economic risk.

Shaun Broughton, Managing Director, APAC & Japan, at Shopify said: “Salary jobs have long been associated with financial security, but that definition is shifting, particularly as technology makes it easier than ever to start and run a business. For many business leaders, security is no longer about a steady salary or single employer, but about control, flexibility, and the ability to build something of their own.

At the same time, Shopify research shows that founders aren’t ignoring the risks of striking out on their own. In an evolving economic climate, the right support is critical to ensure entrepreneurship can continue to thrive. When founders have access to the right support, whether that’s skills training, trade assistance, or reduced red tape, they’re far more likely to start and sustain a business. That’s key to maintaining Australia’s global competitiveness and building a resilient entrepreneurial economy.”

Kelly Jamieson, Founder and Managing Director at Edible Bloom said: ”Traditional employment offers a predictable income, whereas business ownership offers founders agency, as you get to decide your risk appetite, pivot speed and ceiling. Whether owning a business is more secure than having a salary; that’s subjective, but I ‘d rather control my variables than hope someone else is. 

I started my own business out of aspiration. I wanted to build a legacy business in the creative space and lead on my own terms. Having this mindset matters in running a business. When you’re running toward something and not away from something, you’re never going to quit when it gets hard, as the hard parts become proof that you’re on the right path. Even if you fail, you’ll have zero regrets.”

Entrepreneurship is a deliberate choice, not a fallback

• For most founders, starting a business is about actively choosing a different way of working. Six in ten (61%) say they started their business to move toward something they wanted, with purpose and passion (21%), flexibility (20%) and control over decisions (16%) ranking as top motivations. Just 9% say they were moving away from something unstable.
• Among those who were motivated by instability, overwork and long hours (60%) is the leading challenge, the highest among all markets. Other key factors include limited flexibility (58%), lack of autonomy (45%), and job insecurity (40%).

Traditional employment no longer feels like the easier path

• A majority of Australian business owners (46%) say that traditional employment requires more effort than running their own business, a striking reversal of the conventional assumption that entrepreneurship is the harder route.
• Just 26% say business ownership requires more effort.

Advances in technology are helping make entrepreneurship more accessible

• More than two in five (43%) business leaders say starting a business is easier today than it was ten years ago, driven by ecommerce platforms (82%), social media and online marketing (74%), remote work infrastructure (67%) and AI and automation tools (60%). 
• However, building a business still comes with its hurdles. Cash flow (20%) ranks as the biggest challenge, followed by finding customers and generating consistent sales (18%).
  
  
  
  

Confidence and pride remains high even as entrepreneurs weigh trade-offs 

• The vast majority (91%) of business leaders feel proud of building their business, and 90% would choose to start a business again in 2026 if given the choice, the highest among all markets surveyed
• However, while 45% would choose to start their business in the same way, 46% would do it differently, suggesting that the road to success isn’t often straightforward.
• For business leaders, the pull of traditional employment is tied to stable income and benefits (48%), greater job security (34%) and predictable hours and clearer work boundaries (29%).

Economic pressure is reshaping resilience

• Many business leaders are becoming more resilient in the face of economic pressure. Over two-fifths (43%) say recent economic conditions have made business setbacks feel less serious, suggesting a growing ability to navigate ongoing volatility.
• However, structural barriers continue to limit growth. Seven in ten (70%) say they would have been more likely to start their business sooner if they had easier access to government support, such as reduced red tape, trade assistance or skills training.

With Australians reviewing their spending and everyday expenses increasingly under scrutiny, Boost Mobile is encouraging all Australians to check their mobile bill as a possible source of savings.  Boost Mobile has just been recognised as the Prepaid Provider of the Year by WeMoney, as it steps up as a simple, straightforward choice for consumers looking to get more value. It is doing this with Boost’d data inclusions across its range and a new six-month long-life prepaid plan, on the Full Telstra Prepaid Mobile Network.

Boost Mobile’s plans, updated today, will see all 7‑day and 28‑day plans with Boost’d data on the first three recharges and increased core data, ensuring customers have more than enough for streaming, social media, work and everyday use. Prices on Boost Mobile’s most popular plans remain unchanged, while the $13 and $26 prepaid plans will see a small price increase alongside added data. It has also launched a new 6-month long-life prepaid plan, designed for Australians who want better long-term value. In addition, Boost is adding international calls to its $365 12-month plan and increasing data inclusions across all roaming packs from $20, allowing consumers to roam with more data and stay connected with their loved ones.

“Australians are being forced to make tough choices right now, but staying connected shouldn’t be one of them. With people actively looking for ways to cut costs, mobile is one of the easiest wins. With Boost, you can switch in minutes, keep your number, and instantly start saving with access to the full Telstra Prepaid Mobile Network.” said Bobby Geldens, CEO of Boost Mobile Australia.

“We’ve built our range of plans around how Australians actually use their phones today, with high data usage, flexibility, and control over spending.”

“Boost is delivering more value with more data and keeping prices as sharp as possible.” said Geldens.

Boost Mobile’s approach to value and flexibility has been recognised by WeMoney in its annual 2026 WeMoney Telco & Broadband Awards, where the brand was awarded “Prepaid Provider of the Year” for the first time, and “Best for Flexibility – Prepaid Mobile Plan” for the second year in a row, with judges commending Boost on its balance of affordability, reliability, and service inclusions, and ability to deliver fast, consistent connectivity and superior service. Boost Mobile was also named a finalist across multiple additional categories, reinforcing its position as one of the most competitive prepaid providers in the Australian market.

These awards have been shared alongside new data from WeMoney around young Australians spending habits including that 45% of the WeMoney audience currently spend $100+/month on their telco and that 50% feel they are overpaying for telco services**. WeMoney data further showed that 82% of Australians are actively looking for ways to save on bills, including 72% who have flagged they are actively considering switching telco provider within the next 12 months. It’s no surprise then, that when asked what matters most to them when it comes to choosing a provider, 96% rated Price and Value, closely followed by Coverage and Speed (86%), both areas where Boost Mobile has a proven track record and commitment to delivering value.

“To be named Prepaid Provider of the Year and Best for Flexibility by WeMoney is a huge endorsement of what we are trying to do by giving Australians more control, more data and better value when they need it most. Consumers want straightforward, affordable mobile plans with excellent coverage and performance that work for them” said Geldens.

With a 25-year heritage as a challenger brand, Boost Mobile has built its reputation on standing up for consumers and delivering great value on the full Telstra Prepaid Network. In today’s economic climate, that role has never been more important.

Despite the clear savings available, many Australians still hesitate to change providers, often due to outdated perceptions that switching is complicated or time-consuming. Independent research previously conducted on behalf of Boost Mobile* last year shows that 46% of Australians have remained with their current mobile provider for over three years, while 7% have never even switched.

“There’s this old idea that switching telcos is painful, but that couldn’t be further from the truth today. With number porting and eSIM, you can move in minutes. No store visits, no waiting, no downtime. It’s fast, it’s seamless, and it puts control back in the hands of the customer.” said Geldens.

View all plan updates from Boost Mobile here- https://boost.com.au/planupdates

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$180 SIM | 6 month expiry | Boost Mobile Website Link

The $180 prepaid SIM offers 160GB of data with unlimited standard national calls and texts along with international calls and texts. It’s an ideal choice for customers seeking 6 months of worry-free usage, comfortably covering typical needs such as streaming, browsing, and social media. Get connected to the Full Telstra Prepaid Mobile network.

160GB on new activations by 10 August 2026. 100GB from next recharge. All for use in Aus. View full information here- https://boost.com.au/shop/long-expiry/180-prepaid-sim 

World Password Day arrives this year at a turning point in Australia. The world’s largest technology platforms are pushing consumers and enterprises toward passwordless authentication. Passkeys, biometrics, and hardware tokens are replacing the credential model that has underpinned digital security for decades. But new independent research released today by Zoho suggests most Australian businesses are still struggling with the model they already have.

One in three Australian businesses suffered a confirmed cyberattack in the past year, according to data from Zoho’s State of Workforce Password Security Report, independently researched by Tigon Advisory Corp. across 3,322 verified professionals in nine regions.

The emergence of advanced AI models capable of identifying and exploiting critical system vulnerabilities faster than any human attacker has sharpened the focus on enterprise security. But while large organisations mobilise to respond, the same threats reach small and mid-sized businesses — which, as this research shows, are structurally less prepared to withstand them. According to Zoho, many of these vulnerabilities remain unpatched.

The data tells a sobering story at the organisational level:

• Seventy-four percent of ANZ businesses lack complete visibility over who has access to what within their own systems.
• Sixty-four percent have no Zero Trust strategy.
• Phishing and weak or reused passwords remain the top two threats, ranked by 68% and 60% of ANZ respondents, respectively.

The gap is widening as AI-powered tools compress attack timelines from weeks to hours. Phishing campaigns that once required manual effort can now be generated, personalised, and deployed at scale. Deepfake audio and video are being used to impersonate executives and bypass identity verification. The threat is no longer limited to stolen passwords; but extends to stolen identities.

The report’s sharpest finding concerns Australia’s small business community, which accounts for the overwhelming majority of the national economy. More than half of ANZ organisations under 250 employees have no dedicated security team, yet they face identical threats to large enterprises, often without the infrastructure, talent, or visibility to manage them. As the cybersecurity industry’s attention and investment concentrate on enterprise-grade solutions, the organisations most exposed are the ones least equipped to respond.

“Every security investment an organisation makes, from endpoint protection to zero trust architecture is built on top of credentials,” said Rakesh Prabhakar, Head of Australia and New Zealand, Zoho. “If the foundation is weak, everything above it is compromised. Across our 40,000-plus ANZ customers, the challenge we see most often is not that businesses don’t understand the risk smaller organisations in particular face due to lack of dedicated resources to act on it. This research confirms what we hear every day: the basics remain the biggest gap, and closing that gap is the single most effective thing any business can do right now.”

AI Agents and the expanding attack surface

The pressure on Australian organisations is compounded by a national shortage of cybersecurity professionals. Additionally, companies are sacking thousands of workers and replacing them with AI ‘agents’, thereby increasing the risk of cyber attacks. The burden falls disproportionately on small and mid-sized businesses, which lack the budgets and employer brand to compete for scarce talent, and are often left relying on IT generalists without specialist security expertise.

The research points to a disconnect that funding alone will not close. Seventy percent of ANZ organisations plan to increase their security budgets, yet the data suggests the constraint is architecture, visibility, and the foundational security behaviours that advanced tools are built on. Ninety percent of ANZ businesses believe AI will ultimately strengthen their security posture. But that future depends on getting the basics right first.

The password itself is evolving. Passkeys, biometric authentication, and hardware-based verification are gaining traction across consumer platforms and enterprise environments alike. But the transition will take years, and for the vast majority of Australian businesses, particularly those under 250 employees, passwords remain the primary line of defence. Even as passwordless adoption accelerates, credential management will remain the foundation on which every future security model depends.

World Password Day is a reminder that the most accessible security measure available to any organisation, of any size, remains one of the most effective: managing credentials properly

The Zoho Vault State of Workforce Password Security 2026 report is available here.