Mark Zuckerberg announced this morning that Instagram is expanding its broadcast channels globally – including to Australia. This will give millions of creators a new way to directly engage with their followers at scale in real-time.

Broadcast channels are a public, one-to-many messaging tool creators can use to help followers stay in-the-know with the latest updates and behind-the-scenes moments using text, photo, video, voice notes and polls. Followers can then react to content in real-time and participate in polls, with more features coming soon.

Everyone from Taylor Swift via Taylor Nation’s broadcast channel to local creators like Adele Maree are creating Instagram Broadcast channels, with unique and behind-the-scenes content which are engaging their followers in personable ways that involve them the most. Other Aussie Creators with Broadcast Channels include:

• Kat Clark – gives her followers a glimpse into her day to day, from finding the perfect birthday outfit, to asking followers for their opinion on daily vlog content.
• Ozzy Man Reviews – shares latest video releases with followers and insights into his fave TV shows (Succession fans unite)

Here’s how to join broadcast channels:

• Access the link to the broadcast channel on a mobile device via a creator’s Story sticker, the link pinned to their profile or, as an existing follower, a one-time notification sent when a creator starts a new channel.
• Tap “Join broadcast channel.” People not yet following the creator will be prompted to do so.
• After joining the channel, it will appear in the Instagram inbox next to other message threads.
• Followers can react to content and vote in polls but cannot send messages. They can also share links to their favourite creators’ broadcast channels so friends can follow and join.
• Anyone can discover the broadcast channel and view the content. All followers will receive the first notification inviting them to join the broadcast channel; however, only followers who have joined will receive subsequent notifications for new updates. Followers can leave or mute broadcast channels at any time, or turn off a creator’s broadcast channel notifications entirely.

As businesses across Australia continue to face fierce competition for talent with unemployment rates hovering at a low 3.6 per cent^[1], a surprising new study has revealed that more than 20 per cent of Australians have experienced a shift in their work attitudes and behaviours. While the pandemic has brought about popular hybrid working arrangements, this study suggests that some workers may be struggling to adapt to the new normal, and simply slacking off at work.

Immigration assistance and information platform Immigration to Australia commissioned a survey of an independent panel of 1002 Australians to assess the post-pandemic productivity of Australian employees. The survey also investigated whether the return of 195,000 immigrants returning to our shores will motivate Australians to work harder as a result of increased job competition.

Almost four in five (77%) of Australians surveyed had no intention of increasing their work ethic in their current role, despite the heightened competition due to increased immigration numbers.

Younger generations are slacking off at work and don’t plan on changing.

Immigration to Australia’s research revealed that 32 per cent of respondents aged 18-30 admitted to developing a more relaxed work attitude during times of low unemployment. While 15 per cent of the same age group is determined to maintain a relaxed work attitude, irrespective of heightened job competition arising from the return of overseas workers to the country.

Older Australians are putting in the hard yards.

By contrast, Australian workers aged over 55 exhibit unwavering dedication to their jobs, with 89 per cent of respondents maintaining their commitment to their roles without succumbing to a more relaxed work attitude.

Of the over 55 respondents 77 per cent strongly believe they have maintained a high work ethic in the past year only 3 per cent admitted to putting less effort into their work and only 2 per cent admitted to taking an hour off here and there when working from home.

Alon Rajic, Founder and Managing Director of Immigration to Australia, says: “It is interesting to see the number of young Australians unconcerned about the job competition, particularly when faced with the challenges of rising living costs. However, to enhance productivity, invigorate Australian businesses, and foster healthy competition, it is essential for everyone to strive towards pre-pandemic production levels. This becomes increasingly important as competition for roles is increasing in line with increased migrant worker numbers.”

West Australians are most prepared to do what it takes to keep their jobs.

Although the survey showed the majority of West Australians are most prepared to work harder (30%) in the face of increased competition for roles returning to Australia, followed by 25 per cent of Victorians and 23 per cent of NSW residents.

While 62 per cent of respondents nationally believe they have maintained a solid work ethic, Queenslanders were most likely to continue with their relaxed attitude to work, no matter the outcome (17%), followed closely by South Australia (16%), NSW (15%), Victoria (14%) and Western Australia (12%).

“The shift in work arrangements could be a catalyst to consider a four-day work week, which could potentially help address the productivity challenges arising from reduced motivation and potentially enhance work-life balance for individuals in Australia,” says Alon.

The full results, with age and State breakdowns, can be found here: https://immigration2australia.com/will-higher-immigration-numbers-increase-competitiveness-in-the-workforce/

With just under four weeks until the End of Financial Year (EOFY), climbing interest rates and economic uncertainty ahead, it’s important to be prepared for End of Financial Year and understand what concessions your business may be entitled to.

Grant Thornton is highlighting three initiatives your business may wish to consider including Temporary Full Expensing and the Technology Investment Boost– both ending 30 June 2023, as well as superannuation carry forward concessional contributions.

Kirsten Taylor-Martin, Partner – Private Business Tax & Advisory, said, “We find many of our clients come to us looking for additional ways to put money back into their business. With the potential of a looming recession, it is important businesses utilise all the concessions available to them. Often there are simple and effective ways to invest into your business and it’s important to explore which options are available and which Government initiatives best suit your individual business needs and goals.”

Temporary full expensing

This initiative assists businesses and encourages investment. Created as part of the Government’s COVID-19 business plan, this is your last chance to acquire new business assets and claim a 100 per cent deduction to reduce your overall tax for your business. For Companies, it is important to assess the impact of temporary full expensing on the franking credit balance and the ability to declare franked dividends, especially when Division 7A loan arrangements are in place.

Broadly, this concession applies to businesses with:

• an aggregated turnover of <$5bn;
• the new asset was first held, first used or installed ready for use for a taxable purpose on or before 30 June 2023; and
• This tax incentive will come to an end on 30 June 2023 as it was not extended in this year’s Federal Budget.

Technology investment boost

This is a one-off opportunity for your business to digitise operations on business expenses and portable assets – and with only one month to go – it’s important to take advantage of this boost for your business if it is eligible.

The boost applies to businesses with:

• An aggregated turnover of <$50m;
• The entity must incur the expenditure wholly or substantially for the purposes of your digital operations or digitising your operations. Some examples of such expenditure include: computer and telecommunications hardware and equipment; software, digital media and marketing; e-commerce – goods or services supporting digitally ordered or platform-enabled online transactions; portable payment devices; cyber security systems; backup management; and monitoring services.
• Certain expenses are ineligible for bonus deduction such as salary and wage costs; capital works; financing costs; and training and education costs. 
• The bonus deduction is equal to 20 per cent of eligible expenditure, but is subject to a $20,000 cap per income year or relevant period.
• Applies to expenditure incurred from 29/3/22-30/6/22 and 1/7/22-30/6/23
• Ends 30 June 2023.

The technology investment boost is subject to law, which at the time of writing has bi-partisan support but remains in the Senate.

Carry forward concessional contributions

This is an opportunity for family businesses where family members have a superannuation balance of <$500,000 at the end of the previous financial year. You can pay a dividend or trust distribution to family members to contribute towards their carry-forward contributions and claim a personal deduction. Once balance is over $500k, they will never get the deduction again for the extra contributions. Unlike the previous two strategies, this concession will continue past 30 June 2023.

You can only claim a deduction for superannuation contributions when you have taxable income. This is an effective strategy for building wealth for the family outside the business operations – a strategy that can assist in future succession. If this strategy is of interest, it is important you speak to your accountant or tax agent prior to implementing to ensure it works in your situation.

It is important to reach out to your advisors and ensure your business is maximising and using all the relevant concessions and financial boosts available so you are prepared for End of Financial Year .

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) encourages small businesses with overdue income tax returns, fringe benefits tax returns or business activity statements to take advantage of a new tax amnesty to get their lodgments back on track.

The amnesty was announced in the 2023-24 Budget. It applies to tax obligations originally due between 1 December 2019 and 28 February 2022 and runs from 1 June 2023 to 31 December 2023.

To be eligible for the amnesty, the small business must be an entity with an aggregated turnover of less than $10 million when the original lodgment was due.

During this time, eligible small businesses can lodge their eligible overdue forms, and the ATO will then proactively remit any associated failure to lodge (FTL) penalties.

ATO Assistant Commissioner Emma Tobias urged small businesses to take advantage of the amnesty to get back on track with their tax obligations if they have fallen behind.

‘The past few years have been tough for many small businesses, with the pandemic and natural disasters having a significant impact. We understand that things like lodging ATO forms may have slipped down the list of priorities. But it is important to get back on track with tax obligations. Lodging these forms is not optional, so we hope our amnesty will make it easier for impacted small businesses to get back on track.’

When forms are lodged with the ATO under the amnesty, businesses or their tax professionals will not need to request a remission of FTL penalties separately.

‘All you need to do is lodge your outstanding tax returns or activity statements, and we’ll take care of the FTL penalty remission from our end. You might see an FTL penalty on your account temporarily, but don’t worry; we will remit it.’

Ms Tobias also noted that outstanding lodgments could be an early indicator that a small business is not actively engaged with the tax system, which can be a red flag.

‘We encourage all businesses to lodge any overdue forms even if they are outside the eligibility period. Whilst forms outside the amnesty eligibility criteria will attract FTL penalties, the ATO will consider your circumstances and may remit such penalties on a case-by-case basis.’

‘We understand that some small businesses may be worried about paying an amount owing on their overdue lodgment. If you cannot fully pay your debt, remember we can work together with you or your registered tax or BAS agent to figure out the right solution for you.’

‘We want to make this process easy and to encourage small businesses to do the right thing. If you have a registered tax or BAS agent, now is a good time to reach out to them to ensure you are up to date with your tax affairs.’ 

‘Taxpayers still must lodge overdue forms during the amnesty period, and we will continue to work with them to help ensure they meet their obligations,’ Ms Tobias said.

The ATO offers a range of support options, including payment plans. Many small businesses can also set up their payment plan online.

Ms Tobias also explained that if a business has ceased trading, it must advise its registered tax professional or the ATO directly.

The amnesty applies to income tax returns, business activity statements, and fringe benefits tax returns. It does not apply to superannuation obligations and excludes other administrative penalties, such as penalties associated with the Taxable Payments Reporting System.

More information on the tax amnesty:

• Small Business – Lodgment Penalty Amnesty Program
• Help with paying
• Changing, pausing, closing or selling your business

Synology has announced the release of BeeDrive, a compact data hub that backs up personal files and photos from your computer, phone, and tablet simultaneously. In less than three minutes of setup, any PC user can start protecting their files with BeeDrive at fast local transfer speeds, while ensuring complete data privacy and ownership.

“Every one of us is generating an unprecedented amount of data on various personal devices today. Better cameras and new photo or video formats, in particular, are eating up our phone or cloud storage space faster than ever,” said David Hu, product manager at Synology Inc. 

“Internet upload speeds never caught up with the explosive growth in personal data, making it increasingly slower and more costly to store all our files in the cloud, especially if we just want to back up or archive old files elsewhere or exchange files between our personal devices,” Hu said. “This is why we want to offer a local, private alternative.”

“With BeeDrive, we hope to bring Synology’s expertise in backup technologies to a larger group of users — many of whom are perfectly computer-literate, but have neither the time or the networking knowledge to host a server that runs 24/7 just for backup,” Hu added. “BeeDrive offers a no-hassle option even for the families and friends of current Synology users.”

Local PC & mobile backup reduce backup time and long-term costs

Once plugged into a PC, users can select which folders they want to protect. BeeDrive automatically backs up all changes in those folders in real time, providing a better recovery point objective (RPO) than scheduled hourly backups. Backup files are stored on BeeDrive in the same format as they are on PC. In case of a computer failure, users can simply connect BeeDrive to another computer and access their files right away, without having to install any software and go through a time-consuming recovery process. 

BeeDrive also backs up photos and videos from iOS and Android devices over Wi-Fi, so phones and tablets are protected at the same time. Just keep your BeeDrive-connected PC and mobile devices in the same network and scan a QR code, and see BeeDrive start backing up to free up space on your phone. 

Overcoming the bandwidth limits imposed by internet or cloud service providers, BeeDrive can be 11 times faster than backing up large files to the cloud from a PC, and six times faster than doing so from mobile devices.¹

BeeDrop and two-way sync boost productivity when exchanging files between devices

For field staff or other professionals who take a lot of photos on their phone and need to use them on a PC when back at the office, the BeeDrop feature allows them to wirelessly send mobile-generated content from iOS and Android devices to BeeDrive. The files become immediately accessible on PC — no more uploading to and downloading from the cloud. 

When switching between work and home computers, BeeDrive can help sync files on each computer as soon as it is plugged in, making sure that all files are always up-to-date on the computer you are working on while keeping a second copy on BeeDrive. 

“Collecting files generated from all our personal devices is just the first step,” said Hu. “In the future, we hope to leverage the abundant computing resources of a computer to help users extract more value from the data itself, such as through auto-categorization. It is always our goal to bring modern technologies to Synology users without sacrificing their data privacy and ownership.”

Availability

BeeDrive is available in 1TB and 2TB capacity from mid-June for Windows, iOS, and Android through Synology partners and resellers worldwide. macOS support is planned. For more details, visit https://bee.synology.com

With figures showing that consumer spending is tightening while new car prices are going up, new research from a novated lease provider reveals how far Aussies will go to get a better price on a car. A whopping per cent of people researched will haggle, downsize, downgrade or compromise to fork out less for a new car. 

The findings were derived from a survey of an independent panel of 1010 Australians commissioned by Novated Lease Australia, a novated lease provider helping Australian motorists access the many benefits that novated leasing has to offer. The full survey results, including age and State breakdowns, can be found here: novatedleaseaustralia.com.au/research/save-on-car-purchases-in-fy24 

In what will be unwelcome news for dealerships, Novated Lease Australia found that 40 per cent of respondents, if they were in the market for a car, would negotiate on the advertised price. More than a quarter (27 per cent) would only buy during a sale. One quarter (25 per cent) would not pay for extra features, while an equal 18 per cent would choose a cheaper brand or avoid the premium model in the range. A quarter (24 per cent) would buy a demo or a smaller car. Nearly one third (31 per cent) would choose a used car. However, only 8 per cent of survey respondents would get a novated lease through a salary sacrifice arrangement with their employer, despite the potential significant cost savings. 

Shaun McGowan, Founder and Managing Director of Novated Lease Australia, explains how the lack of knowledge on novated leases could be preventing Aussies from saving thousands of dollars. “With a novated lease, drivers can save money on GST and income tax, and they don’t have to pay the full cost outright. Plus, by novating an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid – up to the luxury car tax threshold – employers won’t be subject to fringe benefits tax. 

“For example, the Tesla Model 3, now Australia’s most popular EV, can have a weekly net cost of less than $200pw for someone on a $65k salary, which is on par with the Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Yet it is deliverable within 3-8 weeks, whereas there could be a 12 to 18 month wait for the Corolla. There’s an awful lot of savings for both drivers and their employers through a novated lease arrangement, without having to compromise on the age or spec of the vehicle.”

A closer look at the data reveals that cost saving preferences varies according to gender and age. Older Australians are keen to negotiate on cost, with 44 per cent of over-50s reporting so, compared with 39 per cent of 31-50s and 33 per cent of 18-30s. 

Women are more likely than men to purchase a used car, with 35 per cent of female respondents choosing this option, compared with 26 per cent of men. Younger drivers are also more willing to buy a used car: this option was by 38 per cent of 18-30s, compared with 31 per cent of 31-50s and 27 per cent of over-50s.  

The survey also found that if in the market for a second-hand car, over a quarter (26 per cent) of Aussies would purchase a car between 3-4 years old, in a bid to get a more affordable vehicle. Further to this, one in ten Aussies (10 per cent) were willing to get a car 9-10 years old to be able to afford it. 

With the survey results in mind, it’s easy to comprehend that Aussies are considering alternative ways to purchase cheaper, or more cost effective, vehicles.  

Last year, Australia’s car industry delivered a total of 1,081,429 new vehicles to drivers around the country, despite post-pandemic supply chain challenges and delivery delays.^[1] SUVs and light commercials accounted for 76.8 per cent of car sales in 2022, suggesting that the majority of purchases were for business and trade purposes.^[2]

Shaun points out that there’s an opportunity for both the business and its employees to save money through novated leasing. “Looking at car sales from last year, it’s clear that – despite purse strings tightening – Aussies are prioritising purchasing a vehicle that offers a commercial or business purpose too. If a salesman needs a car to travel for work, it’s non-negotiable, so if they need to make the purchase, they should explore whether they can get a novated lease through their employer. Which offers cost savings for themselves, and their business too.”

The full survey results, including age and State breakdowns, can be found here: novatedleaseaustralia.com.au/research/save-on-car-purchases-in-fy24

EPOS, the global audio brand, today announces that the IMPACT 1000, an on-ear, future-proof Bluetooth® headset, is available for purchase. Designed for professionals who value clear communication, the IMPACT 1000 ensures all meeting participants can stay focused – even in noisy environments.

Today, professionals can often work from anywhere, at any time. This ‘New Open Office’ dynamic brings with it multiple distractions and ambient noises – making it challenging for employees to stay engaged and perform to the best of their abilities. Using pioneering technologies and user-friendly features, the award-winning IMPACT 1000 is the first headset of its kind designed to address the critical, everyday challenges posed by this new modern work environment.

EPOS develops audio and video solutions that are backed by science. Building on decades of leading psychoacoustic research, the company’s latest scientific research study sought to evaluate the potential benefits of noise attenuation, or noise reduction, in audio devices, while people performed a dual task consisting of understanding speech while reacting to a visual task. The results of the study indicate that noise attenuation, such as the hybrid adaptive ANC in IMPACT 1000 headsets, provides several benefits for participants when performing a dual task is required, including 67% less listening effort and 48% better recognition of speech in a noisy environment. By minimising the brain effort spent on listening and understanding the elements of a conversation the IMPACT 1000 optimises user efficiency by up to 40%, unlocking new levels of productivity and performance. Leveraging insights such as these, EPOS develops machine learning technologies such as those in the IMPACT 1000 to help end-users’ brains better process and understand audio stimuli.

Powered by EPOS’ BrainAdapt™ Technology and Backed by Psychoacoustic Research

Workers everywhere often find themselves multitasking without even realising it. However, juggling multiple tasks can be difficult, and sometimes professionals will need to prioritise one task over another to maintain a level of performance. Human cognitive capacity is inherently limited, and when we prioritise one task, it reduces the resources available for others. For instance, when we underestimate the additional cognitive resource required for understanding speech in a challenging audio environment, we also underestimate the impact on the brain to carry out other tasks effectively.

As part of its ongoing mission to enable seamless communication for today’s enterprise professionals EPOS has built on its BrainAdapt™ technology offering to address these issues. EPOS develops solutions that support the brain’s natural way of processing sound and enhances the cognitive performance of professionals everywhere. Leveraging powerful, world-leading technologies, the hybrid adaptive ANC in IMPACT 1000 enhances a user’s ability to perform when conducting Dual Tasks, wherever they are.

• Powered by EPOS’ BrainAdapt™ technology – BrainAdapt™ is a group of pioneering technologies that work together to improve cognitive performance. IMPACT 1000 features EPOS BrainAdapt^™ technology to reduce brain fatigue with hybrid adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and industry-leading voice pickup powered by EPOS AI^™.
• Uses EPOS AI™ to adapt to environments – Machine learning technology scans user environments 32,000 times per second to suppress disruptive sounds and enhances desirable audio to ensure only the relevant sounds are filtered through to the person the user is talking to.
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) – Featuring hybrid adaptive ANC, the IMPACT 1000 ensures unwanted background sounds are blocked out to enable undisturbed conversation and reduced brain fatigue.

Recognised for its Design Excellence

Designed for comfort, the IMPACT 1000 offers users all-day wearing comfort with a lightweight design, soft cushions, headband padding, and Super Wideband for natural sound. Users can enjoy total ease of use with a contactless charging stand, intuitive on-headset controls, and a suite of smart features.

Additionally, triple Bluetooth connectivity lets users stay connected to three devices at the same time to enable movement while on a call. Talk Through features allow users to communicate with colleagues without removing the headset while the 360 busy light signals when users are on a call. 

Recognising its intuitive, innovative, and customer-led design the IMPACT 1000 was awarded iF Design Award Gold as well as a Red Dot Design Award. These prestigious and globally renowned accolades are awarded to products of the highest calibre and represent outstanding examples of design excellence and innovation.

Theis Mørk, VP Product Management at EPOS says: “As the complexities of the modern work-scape continue to evolve so too must the solutions that we use to ensure productivity and communication. Backed by world-leading psychoacoustic data, the IMPACT 1000 is a trailblazing innovation for professionals and businesses operating in the New Open Office environment. Communication is at the core of business success and it’s integral that leaders think intentionally about how they are optimising the potential of technology solutions to empower their employees. Doing so will help improve productivity, accuracy, and efficiency.”

IMPACT 1000 is certified for Microsoft Teams and meets the Open Office requirements.  Click here for further information about the IMPACT 1000.  

RRP: Prices start from $485.00 AUD 

The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows crime is on the rise, with the number of break-ins increasing for the first time in more than a decade.[1] The growing rate of unauthorised home access presents a major concern for many residents and homeowners, especially as travel continues to return to pre-pandemic levels. Residents want to keep their property and family safe, and many Australians are increasingly turning to home security solutions, including cameras, to help provide an added layer of protection and achieve greater peace of mind.

To keep Australians and their businesses safe and secure, Uniden Australia is offering bonus solar panels to customers who purchase eligible Uniden App Cam SOLO Pro 2K wirefree security cameras from 1 June to 31 December 2023. Each customer who purchases an eligible product can receive an additional solar panel per camera, with up to four solar panels available via redemption, subject to terms and conditions.

Brad Hales, national marketing communications manager, Uniden Australia, said, “Year-round home security is top of mind for many Australians, and keeping families and business properties safe and secure is essential. Uniden Australia is committed to enhancing home security and safety, and increasing the value of its outdoor wirefree home security solutions, by offering bonus solar panels across the App Cam SOLO Pro 2K range to help increase uptime and availability of the cameras.”

The following products are eligible for the Uniden bonus solar panel offer:

• Uniden App Cam SOLO Pro 2K (single pack) – eligible for one bonus solar panel (RRP $99.95 Bonus Value)
• Uniden App Cam SOLO Pro 2K (twin pack) – eligible for two bonus solar panels (RRP $199.90 Bonus Value)
• Uniden App Cam SOLO Pro 2K (quad pack) – eligible for four bonus solar panels (RRP $399.80 Bonus Value)

Brad Hales said, “The App Cam SOLO Pro 2K home security camera range is an ideal wirefree security solution for every Australian small business. The cameras can withstand exposure to the elements, and continuously and reliably capture footage with a 120-degree wide viewing angle. Each camera is solar-powered compatible, ensuring seamless recharge and non-stop power during daylight hours. This ensures the super HD footage can be recorded and viewed without the risk of the battery being drained, and residents can achieve visibility of their home anytime, anywhere, for greater peace of mind.

“With an additional compatible solar panel, residents can maximise the benefits of solar power and their home security solution. It’s the perfect home security solution for long weekends, holidays, or any day of the week, particularly leading into the longer nights and darker winter days.”

This offer is open to Australian residents who purchase one of the eligible Uniden App Cam Solo PRO 2K security cameras in person or online from an authorised participating Australian retail outlet or online store during the promotional period (1 June to 31 December 2023).

The Promotion is valid for App Cam SOLO PRO 2K Range of Security Cameras (Single, Twin and Quad Packs)

For full terms and conditions, or for customer redemption, visit: www.unidenpromotions.com.au

[1] https://www.abs.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/break-ins-increase-after-record-low

American Express announces the return of its Backing International Small Restaurants grant program in partnership with the International Downtown Association Foundation and the support of Restaurant & Catering Australia.

The program aims to support small independent restaurants with community significance, as they navigate the challenges of the current economic climate. Additional consideration will be given to restaurants operated by underrepresented and/or economically vulnerable members of the community.

Six Sydney restaurants will each receive $21,000 in grant funding to invest in the ongoing success of their business. All small independent restaurants in Sydney are encouraged to apply – especially those who are anchors within their local community and are facing hardship.

Naysla Edwards, Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Member Experience for American Express Australia and New Zealand, said: “Many small restaurants that are pillars of their local community are doing it tough right now and need extra support. This program aims to help alleviate some of the financial pressure they’re facing so that they can continue to do what they do best – deliver extraordinary food and experiences for their customers.” 

David Downey, Executive Director, IDA Foundation said, “We recognise the vital role that small, independent restaurants play in our communities. This program is a demonstration of our commitment to supporting these businesses and helping them thrive and succeed in the wake of ongoing economic challenges worldwide. It is an honour to implement this innovative work with the generous support of American Express.”

Suresh Manickam, CEO of Restaurant & Catering Australia said: “This will provide much-needed financial relief to restaurant businesses across Sydney. We are proud to support a program that contributes to the ongoing prosperity of restaurant businesses and recognises the vital contribution they bring to the vibrancy and appeal of Sydney.”

This is the second consecutive year Backing International Small Restaurants has run in Sydney, with year-one focusing on the historic Rocks area. Sydney is one of five major cities involved. Others include Mexico City, London, Tokyo and Toronto. To date, American Express has provided grants to more than 100 restaurants globally through this program and its U.S. Backing Historic Small Restaurants program.  

Backing International Small Restaurants builds on American Express’ efforts to support small businesses year-round, including through its annual Shop Small campaign, a global movement that shines a spotlight on small businesses, American Express Delicious Month Out and other global “Backing Small” programs. 

To learn more about Backing International Small Restaurants, including eligibility and to apply, visit downtown.org/event/bisr. Applications close 8 July 2023.