Practical guide · not a new rule · Source published: 2026-09-28
Source: Inside Small Business. Limitations: According to ABS statistics, labour productivity was unchanged over the quarter (q/q 0%) and decreased by 0.2% year-on-year (y/y -0.2%) in the June quarter.
One-minute answer
Expert analysis and recommendations that small and medium-sized businesses need to focus on improving productivity through equipment, technology, and process enhancements, rather than increasing prices or extending working hours amidst rising operating costs and customer price resistance.
Who this affects
Australian small and medium-sized businesses (especially in transport, construction, and manufacturing) facing rising costs and cash flow pressures.
Potential business impact
In an environment where passing on cost increases to sales prices is difficult due to customer price sensitivity, managing cash flow through automation and financial structure alignment (e.g., invoice financing) becomes more important than forced expansion.
General matter to check
Review whether technology investments to improve efficiency in repetitive administrative tasks or equipment operations are appropriate, instead of simply extending working hours. Also, check funding methods.
Compare costs, time and investment
Separate general productivity advice from your actual cost changes. Include the cost of tools and time to learn them.
| Area | Question to consider |
|---|---|
| Current costs | Which costs and transaction volumes can be compared over the same period? |
| Recurring work | Can time-consuming tasks and actual time spent be recorded? |
| Investment | What are the equipment, training costs and remaining uncertainties? |
A Hanho editorial worksheet, not a mandatory-document list or an official agency form.
What this article cannot determine
Automation or investment does not guarantee savings or increased profit.
Check the evidence and scope in the original source →
- Status: guidance
- Original source: Work smarter, not harder, business urged as costs rise
Return to this week’s full brief →
General information only; not individual advice.