MELBOURNE. THE BEST PLACE TO DO BUSINESS.
Here are four great reasons why:
1. We have been voted one of the world’s most liveable cities.
2. We are Australia’s fastest growing capital city.
3. We have low business costs.
4. We are a city of knowledge with access to talent.
To take the first step in making Melbourne “your” place of business, contact our Business Concierge Service for free one-on-one business support and advice.
Phone: 03 9658 9658
Email: businessconcierge@melbourne.vic.gov.au
Website: melbourne.vic.gov.au/business-concierge
This year’s SmallBiz Week program is built around six essential themes designed to help you tackle today’s challenges and seize tomorrow’s opportunities.
Across the expo floor, workshops, and live talks, discover expert insights and practical solutions within these focus areas:
AI & Automation
Discover how artificial intelligence and workflow automation are transforming customer service, operations, and everyday efficiency
Marketing Solutions
From social media to email and content marketing, get the tools and strategies to stand out, attract attention, and drive engagement.
Finance, Tech & Accounting
Stay compliant and confident with smarter ways to manage your money - from BAS and bookkeeping to funding and forecasting.
Hiring & People Management
Find solutions for building a strong team, from recruitment and onboarding to HR tech and workplace culture.
Tech & Cybersecurity
Protect your data, streamline your systems, and future-proof your tech stack with expert advice on digital security and infrastructure.
Sales & Growth
Fuel business development with tools and training to boost conversions, scale operations, and unlock long-term growth.
Expert-led Insights on the Live Stage
Get front-row access to the latest strategies and success stories from top-tier business leaders.
Our Live Stage features engaging sessions from Australia's leading entrepreneurs, experts and government bodies as they share real-world strategies on scaling, streamlining and staying competitive.
Remember to bring your notebook!
The expo is the beating heart of SmallBiz
With an impressive roster of exhibitors technology, HR, finance, marketing, and this is where ideas meet execution.
Discover tools and services that can streamline operations, amplify growth, and future-proof business.
Whether you're seeking innovative solutions or new partnerships, the Expo is your destination for actionable growth opportunities.
Marketplace for Business
Week. across and more, execution. streamline future-proof your business. solutions your go-to opportunities.
Master your Digital Game with Practical Workshops
From AI to email marketing, this year's event has workshops from Constant Contact, Zoho and Booked Solid AI that are built for action.
Learn actionable strategies to walk away with the tools and skills you can implement right away.
Take a look at the Workshop Agenda's and reserve your spot ahead of the event!
EXHIBITORS
High-impact Networking
The real magic happens in the conversations.
For more networking action, join the Evening Networking Function and connect in a relaxed setting and discover potential collaborators, clients, or mentors.
NETWORKING TICKETS
Government Pavillion: No Middleman, Just Support
New in 2025, our Government Pavilion connects you directly with agencies offering grants, compliance support, and business tools.
Meet experts from IP Australia, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Finance, the Australian Taxation office and more to get expert advice and get your questions answered - no phone queues required.
Start FY25/26 with clarity, confidence and a headstart.
Join an exciting lineup of thought leaders and industry professionals tackling pressing issues facing small businesses today. Whether you’re looking for clarity on tech trends or strategies to manage growth, these sessions are designed to empower you with real-world solutions.
10:00 - 10:25
What is Succession Thinking? (and why it's not Succession Planning)
Rethink how to future-proof your business with five principles to build a company that thrives beyond your leadership.
Speaker: Gabe Enslin (Continuity Founder & Leader at adapt)
10:25 - 10:50
Empowering SMBs to Thing Big: Achieve Enterprise-Level Efficiency with Intelligent Content Management
Learn how intelligent content management can unlock enterprise-level efficiency—no massive budget required.
Speaker: Gavin Diamond (VP of ANZ at Box)
10:50 - 11:35
Starting & Scaling a Business in 2025
Industry experts reveal strategies to launch, scale, and stay resilient in a rising-cost economy
Moderator: Keeley Pasfield - Assistant Director, Public Education at IP Australia
Speakers: Cathy Middleton (Senior Licensing Manageger at OneMusic Australia), Max Ferguson (Founder & CEO at Lumin), Rakesh Prabhakar (General Manager ANZ at Zoho), Salina Chu (IP Australia).
11:35 - 12:20
No More Guessing: Marketing Startegies That Actually Work for SMEs
Industry experts reveal strategies to launch, scale, and stay resilient in a rising-cost economy
Host: Clint Hong
Speakers: Cheyne Jonstone (Co-founder & Co-CEO at Nexigen Digital), Irwin Hau (Founder at ConversionCow and Chromatix), Bianca Blades (APAC Field Marketing Manager at Constant Contact)
12:20 - 12:45
Digital Marketing on a Dime: Driving Success on an SME Budget
Marketing on a tight budget? Get practical, proven tips to turn followers into customers and grow your business with less.
Speaker: Renée Chaplin (Vice President, Asia Pacific at Constant Contact)
12:45 - 13:10
The Art of Growing Your Team: 3 Steps to Help you Get it More Right Than Wrong
Recruit smarter with three key steps to hire the right people at the right time for your business growth.
Speaker: Alison Newman (Director of Development at Cloudstaff)
13:10 - 13:55
The Future of Work: Hiring & Retaining Staff
Explore creative recruitment strategies and workplace perks to help you attract and keep top talent.
Host: Clint Hong
Speakers: Michael Price (Head of Business & Strategy at Nexigen Digital), Kate Jolly (Global Head of Talent at Employment Hero)
13:55 - 14:40
Unlocking Efficiency: Why SMEs Need AI & Automation
Cut costs, boost productivity, and stay competitive with AI and automation tailored for small businesses.
Host: Clint Hong
Speakers: Andy Pudmenzky (APAC Customer Marketing Manager at Constant Contact), Gavin Diamond (VP of ANZ at Box), Marek Drummond (Managing Director at Optimus Systems).
14:40 - 15:05
Hire Like a Hero: Winning Talent Strategies for SMBs
Speed up your hiring process with smart tools and strategies to build a high-performing team from day one. Speaker: Kate Jolly (Global Head of Talent at Employment Hero)
15:05 - 15:30
Small Business Essentials: How Choosing Tech Stack can be a Game Changer
Beyond AI - discover the essential tools and platforms that drive small business growth in the modern market.
Speaker: Benny Balaaji (Sales Director at Zoho)
15:30 - 15:55
Building your best tender response
Step-by-step guidance on how to craft compelling tenders and win government procurement opportunities.
Speaker: Joel McKay (Assistant Director - Procurement Capability Branch at Department of Finance)
15:55 - 16:20
Recruitment strategies and the migrant workforce
Recruit smarter with three key steps to hire the right people at the right time for your business growth.
Speaker: Megan Forbes (Assistant Director, Business Industry and Regional Outreach Victoria/Tasmania at Department of Home Affairs)
10:00 - 10:25
Low-cost Alternatives to Court Action for Small Business
Discover how the Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC) can help resolve disputes without the time, cost, or stress of going to court.
Speaker: Elizabeta Galevska (Manager Dispute Resolution at VSBC)
10:25 - 10:50
Digital Marketing on a Dime: Driving Success on an SME Budget
Marketing on a tight budget? Get practical, proven tips to turn followers into customers and grow your business with less.
Speaker: Renée Chaplin (Vice President, Asia Pacific at Constant Contact)
10:50 - 11:05
Using AI to Grow your Business & Customers: Inside Booked Solid AI
Marketing on a tight budget? Get practical, proven tips to turn followers into customers and grow your business with less.
Speaker: Kate Dillema (Chatbot Program Director at Booked Solid AI)
11:05 - 11:30
A Keynote Address from the City of Melbourne
Hear from a City of Melbourne guest speaker as they share local insights and opportunities for small businesses in 2025 and beyond.
Speaker: Councillor Kevin Louey (Councillor at City of Melbourne)
11:30 - 12:15
Small Teams, Big Impact: Expert Tips for SME Growth
Learn how to scale smart with lean teams, cash flow control, and strategic outsourcing to compete.
Host: Clint Hong
Speakers: Paul Dove (Senior Vice President of Sales APAC at Cloudstaff), Max Ferguson (Founder & CEO at Lumin), Kiril Shaginov (Co-Founder at Mork Chocolate)
12:15 - 12:40
Bootstrapped to $1Bn+ in Revenue: Lessons from Zoho’s Business Journey
Hear how Zoho scaled globally - without external funding - and the unconventional strategies your business can learn from.
Speaker: Benny Balaaji (Sales Director at Zoho)
13:05 - 13:35
No More Guessing: Marketing Startegies That Actually Work for SMEs
Industry experts reveal strategies to launch, scale, and stay resilient in a rising-cost economy
Host: Clint Hong
Speakers: Renée Chaplin (Vice President, Asia Pacific at Constant Contact), Matt Ford (National IKEA for Business Specialist at IKEA Australia), Kelsie Gaffey (Owner at Gracie’s Wine Room)
13:35 - 14:05
Unlocking Efficiency: Why SMEs Need AI & Automation
Cut costs, boost productivity, and stay competitive with AI and automation tailored for small businesses.
Host: Clint Hong
Speakers: Elise Balsillie (VP Revenue ANZ at Thryv), Crystal Benson (Founder & CEO at Booked Solid AI)
14:05 - 14:30
Bedroom to Boardroom: Scaling a Digital Empire
From startup to industry leader, Cheyne’s journey with Nexigen Digital is packed with hard-earned lessons on scaling and success.
Speaker: Cheyne Jonstone (Co-founder & Co-CEO at Nexigen Digital)
14:30 - 14:55
New Legal Risks for Business Owners: How to Navigate the New Wage Laws
Avoid legal headaches with expert advice on new wage theft laws and learn how to protect your business with compliance strategies.
Speaker: Paul Maguire (Principal at Maguire Legal)
14:55 - 15:20
R U OK? in the Workplace - Ask R U OK? Any Day!
Foster a connected and supportive workplace with practical tools to check in with your team and start meaningful conversations.
Speaker: Julie-Anne Whitfield (Workplace Engagement Manager at R U OK?
15:20 - 15:45
Making Money: Key Financial Strategies for Small Business
Unlock smarter money management with two key profit metrics and a 4-account system that helps you take control of your finances.
Speaker: Lyndon FFA Principal at Next Level Accountants
MEET THE SPEAKERS
BOOK YOUR TICKET
Explore. Connect. Discover.
SmallBiz Week 2025 is bringing together the brightest minds and boldest brands across Australia’s small business ecosystem. From tech and marketing to finance, HR, logistics, and more, our expo floor is your one-stop destination for businessbuilding tools, insights, and opportunities.
Use the floor plan to navigate the space, plan your route, and make the most of your visit. Whether you're on the lookout for new suppliers, ready to scale with digital tools, or simply here to spark new ideas - you’ll find it all here.
VISIT THE GOVERNMENT PAVILLION.
Your direct line to government-backed business support.
Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, the Government Pavilion is where clarity meets opportunity. Meet with representatives from local, state, and federal government agencies offering support programs, funding guidance, digital tools, and small business services tailored to your needs.
Learn about:
• Grant opportunities and how to apply
• Tax, accounting, and regulatory support
• Digital business programs and training
• Workforce planning and skills development
It’s your chance to ask questions, get answers, and walk away with practical tools to grow your business - with confidence.
.auDA
AB Phillips Adapt APC Global ATO
Big Post BNI Booked Solid AI Box.com
Business Victoria City of Melbourne
Cloudstaff The Complete Basketcase
Constant Contact Conversion Cow Chromatix Corporate Face Department of Finance
Devika Day Dotsquares
Employment Hero EvolveCyber Eworks
Find Your Way North Frankston City Council Future Drive AutoShows
Hampton Accelerate Department of Home Affairs Hypex Digital IKEA
IKEA Business Lounge INFO IP Australia Leaselab Luca Plus Lumin Maguire Legal Marrow
Melbourne HR Next Level Accountants OneMusic Optimus Systems Outright IT Resus Ready First Aid Rich Harvest Digital Sarina Russo Servcorp SMEC AI Stratiform Sustainable Vehicle Solutions Technetics Cyber Security Thryv VentraIP Verve Innovation Zoho
Industry Leading Marketing and Sales Platform.
Supercharge your business growth with our award-winning small business software and AI tools.
Thryv has grown our business immensely. We’re finding more enquiries are turning into clients.
Crown Self Storage Gordon Sadler
Unlock growth with hands-on marketing and AI workshops led by industry experts.
Looking to sharpen your strategy, streamline your marketing, or finally get to grips with AI tools that save time and boost results? Join us for a dynamic series of free, expert-led workshops designed for small business owners, side hustlers, and startup founders ready to grow smarter.
From automation and customer communication to social content and digital campaigns, each session is packed with actionable advice you can put to work right away. Hosted by trusted names like Constant Contact, Zoho, and Booked Solid AI, these workshops are your shortcut to mastering modern marketing.
Affordable digital marketing tools made for small business.
Simple, smart, and ready-to-go campaigns.
Get step-by-step guidance on creating professional email and social posts that drive engagement, boost sales, and build your brand.
Smart Business Apps for big business moves.
Save time. Work smarter. Grow faster.
Explore easy-to-use tools for scheduling content, automating customer communication, and tracking performance - all in one platform.
BOOK YOUR SPOT
Business Drives Light Commercial Vehicle Market Growth
Australia’s light commercial vehicle (LCV) market continues to show strong resilience, with business buyers leading the charge. Year-to-date figures show a 2.8% rise in business purchases, now accounting for nearly 40% of all new vehicle sales. This growth underscores the robust strength of the commercial sector, even as affordability constraints continue to affect private buyers. As Australian businesses seek cost-effective, practical vehicle solutions, Light Commercial Motor Show 2025 and SmallBiz Week 2025 are set to showcase the latest innovations that will define the future of mobility for SMEs.
SMEs: The Engine Behind Market Momentum
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) remain the backbone of this growth. From trade services and construction to retail and logistics, Australian SMEs rely heavily on Utes, vans, and 4x4s as vital assets for their daily operations. These vehicles are not just tools—they are critical business assets that support productivity, mobility, and business success.
Recognising the importance of this sector, an inaugural exhibition Light Commercial Motor Show 2025 will be presented together with SmallBiz Week 2025 at ICC Sydney from 7–8 August 2025, is a unique opportunity to showcase business trends, solutions, and opportunities supported by Government, Industry Associations, and brand exhibitors.
Co-Located Events: Empowering SME Growth
SmallBiz Week 2025 and Light Commercial Motor Show—ICC Sydney 7–8 August, the two events will provide a powerful platform for SMEs. SmallBiz Week will feature a series of expert-led workshops, practical demonstrations, and networking opportunities designed to tackle the specific challenges SMEs face. Attendees will gain insights into financing, marketing, AI, innovation and tech adoption, and much more.
At the same time, Light Commercial Motor Show 2025 will unveil the latest models in commercial vehicles, from the new Utes to the latest in petrol and diesel together with hybrid/electric LCVs. Vans, SUVs and the growing PVM-people movers. This is the perfect opportunity for fleet operators, business owners, and tradies to explore the latest mobility solutions and make informed decisions about future transport options.
Networking will be a key feature, with exclusive functions such as the Business Leaders Luncheon, Business Leaders Breakfast, and the Mix at Six Networking Function, all supporting the Heart Foundation. These functions will allow business owners to connect with key decision-makers and build strategic relationships across all industry sectors.
From Industry Innovations to Future-Ready Vehicles
Light Commercial Motor Show 9–10 August opens its doors both the public, Tradies and Small Business showcasing next-generation vehicles and highlighting the growing interest in sustainable mobility. With more Australians seeking vehicles that serve both business and lifestyle needs, the show will cater to a broader audience, combining commercial and consumer needs for practical, work-ready vehicles.
All the major Auto Brands will be displaying the latest
model releases, across petrol & diesel as well as electric, and hybrid models—from utes and 4x4s to vans, people movers, and commercial vehicles. Whether you’re looking to reduce fleet costs, upgrade your business mobility solutions, or tap into the latest green technologies, this is the place to be.
A Positive Outlook for the LCV Sector in 2025
Looking ahead, Pitcher Partners has a positive outlook for the LCV sector. Interest rate cuts, coupled with easing cost-of-living pressures, are expected to drive further growth in the second half of 2025 Additionally, government incentives, such as the Small Business Green Loan Program, are set to stimulate demand for eco-friendly LCVs and support sustainable business practices across the sector.
Why These Events Matter for Your Business
Together, SmallBiz Week 2025 and Light Commercial Motor Show 2025 offer an unparalleled opportunity for businesses to:
Explore new vehicle models, from traditional fuels to electric and hybrid options
Discover cost-saving innovations that help optimise operations
Network with industry leaders, suppliers, financing experts, logistics, infrastructure.
Gain valuable insights into scaling and sustaining business growth
"Future Drive Australia and the Australian Business Forum are proud to present, for the first time in Australasia, this unique opportunity for the business sector to engage with the latest in mobility solutions, discover costsaving innovations, and connect with key industry leaders and decision-makers at two vital B2B forums."
Ray Evans, Group CEO
