Business continuity planning to get you through challenging times

Business continuity plans are about being prepared for disruptions such as the coronavirus pandemic and natural  disasters, so you can keep your business going or quickly get  back on your feet.  Check out our resources and guides to understand business continuity planning and why it's important for business resilience.

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What is a business continuity plan?

A business continuity plan (BCP) helps businesses to:

  • understand what’s most important to continue during disruption

  • identify resources needed to keep key functions and services running

  • prepare to recover as quickly and easily as possible

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business continuity disaster recovery plan on the wall

What does a business continuity plan cover?

A business continuity plan is about being ready for anything unusual or unexpected that has the potential to disrupt your business operations.  Disruptions can be internal events such as equipment failure, or external events like COVID-19 or an earthquake. A continuity plan covers any risks or threats that could disrupt your most important business activities.

Why are business continuity plans important?

Many small businesses could struggle to keep going or reopen after a disaster such as the economy coming to a sudden halt. Business continuity planning improves resilience and the likelihood your business will survive. 

There are a tonne of benefits to business continuity management. It may:

  • reduce the financial impact of the event or disaster

  • make sure staff receive adequate support and communication

  • ensure stakeholder requirements are understood and delivered on

  • help your business fulfil its legal and regulatory obligations

  • identify and protect critical functions and services

  • pinpoint services you depend on, such as third-party suppliers, and identify alternatives

BCP scenario planning diagram

Explore resources to help your business recover in these challenging times

BCP plan template on a clipboard

Business continuity guides and templates

Find resources
Australian financial year end for Bookkeepers

Protecting business relationships in turbulent times

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Managing cash flow when the going gets tough

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EOFY for small business

Looking after yourself and your team

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Surviving a financial crisis in your business

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EOFY for small business

Accessing government support and assistance

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Xero business continuity hub

Visit Xero Central for more tools to help your business get through unforeseen disruptions. Register for upcoming webinars, find business and mental health resources, and connect with the Xero community to share your experiences. 

We'll continue to add useful resources and information, so keep checking in.

Explore the hub

Top Xero tools for business continuity planning

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Managing your cash flow

Learn how to set and manage your budget, forecast your future cash flow.

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Using Xero remotely

Use Xero anywhere you have the internet and download our app.

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Operating remotely

Helpful tools and videos to help you and your employees to work effectively online.

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