This episode explores the real challenges facing small businesses in regional Victoria—from rising costs and labour shortages to digital struggles, shifting forestry policy, and increasing compliance burdens.Drawing on recent local research and direct feedback from business owners across sectors, including trades, retail, agriculture, hospitality, and more, Sam highlights why small businesses are vital to community resilience and what support they urgently need.Listeners will gain insight into the current pressures, opportunities for collaboration, and the practical steps that government and business networks can take to help regional businesses not just survive, but thrive.Sources -What's Driving SMB Success in 2025: 7 Business Statistics — SalesforceAustralian Business Statistics 2025: Facts & Industry Insights — Money.com.au55 Insightful Small Business Statistics (2025) — ShopifyAustralian Small Business Insights — Xero USXero data reveals Aussie small business sales volatile in 2025 — XeroA Growing Economy — Victorian Budget 25/26Esoteric Festival Got Cancelled: What's The Next Steps? — FeedFreqSmall Business Trends for 2025 — SBAASWorld Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day 2025 — business.vic.gov.auEsoteric Music Festival's Abrupt Cancellation Sparks Outcry and Calls for Reform — Flowmusic.oneBased on feedback and research from regional business owners and advisors across Murrindindi, Mansfield, and Victoria in Sam Hicks’ July 2025 report presented to the Victorian Small Business Commissioner and local government.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you love the episode… subscribe, share, and like. I’d love a review, or let me know about a future topic.While you’re on the website, check out my Small Business Kickstart Kit — it’s a one-page plan, social media calendar, marketing checklist, and Canva templates, all ready to go. Instant download at samhicks.com.au.Sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or see how we can work together to achieve your small business goals — whether through mentoring, attending a workshop, or a brief 1-hour course or even your choice of training..Follow me on social media (@samhickscomau) and remember, anything is possible in business.#smallbusiness #podcast #newepisode #5minutebusinessboost #tunein #smallbiz #aussiesmallbusiness #samhicks

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