SME Hiring Watch: Casual employment is slipping as Australian small and medium businesses get more cautious on hiring, even while many leaders remain positive about the next six months. Workplace Rules for AI: The Fair Work Commission has issued new guidance aimed at AI-assisted claims, requiring applicants to disclose if generative AI was used and how, from late October. Energy Cost Pressure: The AER is being urged to cut network charges and return about $1 billion to consumers, a move that would ease cost-of-living strain for small firms. Payments for Small Business: PayRewards (Pay.com.au’s US arm) has launched in America with a 1.75% bank-transfer fee to earn points, pitching “fairness” for small merchants versus big-company rewards deals. Local Business Boosts: Sunshine Coast Airport opened a new Relay store in its $170m terminal redevelopment, highlighting opportunities for local suppliers. Regional Tourism & Trade: Victoria Pass rebuild funding is welcomed but regional leaders say more business support is still needed; meanwhile, cross-border local government tourism talks are underway in SA’s Naracoorte Caves. Cyber & Scams: Banks and regulators are warning small businesses to stay alert to scams as Scams Awareness Week approaches. Innovation & Skills: OpenAI is backing Aussie founders with $5.5m in startup credits for AI use, while accounting firms continue shifting toward advisory services beyond compliance. Business Tech Moves: Addigy partnered with Leader Cloud to expand Apple device management access for Australian MSPs.