Keeping small business running now and in the future

Running a small business can be challenging. Find the right tools and information to back yourself and your business.

An advisor stands in front of a whiteboard, explaining tools to get businesses running.

What to do now and what to do next

Some of the biggest lessons over the last few years has been the need for businesses to have a robust plan for how they'll cope in the face of disruption, whether it's a natural disaster, equipment failure, or a cyber attack. A business continuity plan outlines the steps you’ll take to be prepared for the unexpected, keep going, and stay strong. It’s essential to keep an eye not only on the present but on the future too.

A small business owner reads through a Xero workbook on their PC to develop a business continuity plan.

Business continuity workbook

Develop a business continuity plan (BCP) for the areas of your business that could be at risk of disruption.

A business owner sits at their PC, working through a guide to budgeting and forecasting.

Budgeting and forecasting guide

Budget and forecast how money will come and go from your business over a year or other time period.

A business owner uses cloud-based apps and software on their laptop for better business.

The benefits of being digitally connected

Turns out Aussie businesses that use cloud-based apps and software have better business outcomes.

Three business owners at work on their premises, which stand side-by-side.

How to thrive in a changing world

A study by Forrester Consulting for Xero looks into the impact of the pandemic on small businesses in Australia.

Small business reports and insights

Explore tips, trends and insights into what it means to be a small business owner and hear from those who are unlocking new ideas and systems that will help them come back smarter and stronger.

Latest report

Where opportunity lies report cover

Where opportunity lies

A new report from Xero prepared by Accenture analyses the state of Australia’s small business sector since the pandemic’s arrival, and where opportunity lies for emerging and existing entrepreneurs over the coming decade.

Cover of a report on small business insights 2021.

Sole trader surge: small business in a post-COVID world

A report from Bernard Salt and the Demographics Group for Xero tells the story of small business and sole traders in Australia over the past year and shows that great change is underway.

Cover of a handbook about uncovering what makes a sole trader.

Tipping point: Uncovering what makes a sole trader

Our most recent research uncovers when a dream becomes reality and determines what it is that ultimately makes sole traders take the leap.

Cover of a handbook on how to build stronger and smarter businesses.

Stronger and smarter handbook

This practical guide contains actionable tips and advice on what it means to be a small business owner in the next stage of coping with COVID.

An expert stands delivers a presentation on small business trends 2021.

Small businesses stared down some of the biggest challenges they’ve ever faced in 2020. Experimentation and improvisation flowed fast, and with that came lots of learning.

Cover of a report on rebuilding business in Australia after COVID-19.

Rebuilding Australia report

Bernard Salt and The Demographics Group report on how businesses will operate in the 'brave new world' and how they're adjusting to the new drivers of demand.

A group of people in a virtual meeting display on a laptop.

Soft skills to help you run your business

No matter what business you’re in, the ability to work and connect with people makes you stand out from your competitors. By growing and developing your soft skills, you'll not only add value to your business, you'll develop a more positive mindset that helps shape a successful future.

A person relaxes in an armchair to focus on their health and wellbeing.

Communication at work

Build better customer relationships with effective communication skills.

A business leader sits at their laptop.

Workplace wellbeing

Reduce stress and improve motivation when you apply health and wellbeing skills.

How to be a good leader

Make difficult decisions and achieve business goals more easily with good leadership skills.

You might also like

1. Explore advisors by location to find an accountant or bookkeeper with Xero expertise near you.

2. Xero can streamline the process when you apply for a small business loan or finance.

3. Get tips, tricks, and accounting essentials to put you on the path to small business success

Logo for Beyond Blue, which supports better mental health in the workplace.

4. Support packages for small businesses impacted by Omicron

Better mental health in the workplace

A person sits in a yoga position as part of their focus on wellbeing. Their dog relaxes beside them.

The last twelve months have changed the way we live and work, bringing uncertainty and a wave of other emotions. But with Beyond Blue, help is at hand.

Running a small business has always been a rollercoaster. But there's been no ride quite like this. Let us help you navigate what comes next.

Start using Xero for free

Access Xero features for 30 days, then decide which plan best suits your business.

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