We’re thrilled to announce the third Night Shift Session with Mainstreet Australia for 2023: Meet the Small Business Commissioners.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to connect and learn from our panel of leading Small Business Commissioners around Australia – all of them passionate supporters of small businesses with a strong commitment to enhancing the operating environment for small businesses by providing practical information, support and assistance.

Topics we’ll cover:

• Understand the important role Small Business Commissioners play in dispute resolution services, including mediation so you can better educate and help your main street small businesses
• How Small Businesses Commissioners can empower small business with the right tools to avoid disputes quickly so they can focus on building their business
• How to engage and work in partnership with stakeholders such as Small Business Commissioners to advocate for the needs of small businesses
• How can we develop better relationships between tenants and landlords to work in cooperation to revitalise main streets, precincts and town centres
• How can we help our small businesses to build resilience in the face of recession, pandemic, other natural disasters and future proof their businesses

OUR SPEAKERS:

BRUCE BILSON, Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman

Bruce Billson commenced his role as Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) in March 2021. The Ombudsman is an independent advocate for small and family businesses.

Bruce brings three decades of experience, knowledge, commitment and an understanding of the issues facing small business. Bruce was the Australian Government Cabinet Minister for Small Business from 2013-2015, a founding Director of Judo Bank and has held various board appointments, including the Franchise Council of Australia, Deakin University Business School and Australian Property Institute. He has also owned and operated a number of small businesses, and knows first-hand the joys and challenges this involves.

DOMINIQUE LAMB, Queensland Small Business Commissioner

Previously, as CEO of the National Retail Association (NRA), Dominique advocated on all areas of policy at a federal and state government level. For instance, she played an integral role in the development of the federal leasing code throughout the COVID lockdown period with industry organisations representing landlords and tenants. Before this, Dominique was Director of NRA Legal providing industrial relations and employment law advice.

LYNDA MCALARY-SMITH, Victorian Small Business Commissioner

Lynda is a qualified lawyer and accomplished senior executive with extensive experience working with businesses within Victoria and nationally.

In her role as Commissioner, Lynda is passionate about creating a fair and competitive trading environment for all Victorians in small business, and supporting the sector in working through recovery from the pandemic towards renewal. She works closely with a diverse range of stakeholders and is known for her commitment to collaboration and consultation, removing barriers to accessing justice, and forming solutions-focused partnerships with industry and all levels of government.