AGP Executive Report
Last update: 11 hours agoFranchise Fallout: A $1m-plus 7-Eleven franchisee says he was “escorted out” after head office took back stores, sparking fresh outrage over fairness and support for small operators. Digital Resilience for SMEs: UNDP argues the Pacific’s blue economy needs stronger digital infrastructure so climate shocks don’t wipe out livelihoods. Modern Slavery Law: A Modern Slavery Bill moves to first reading, with an Education and Workforce committee set to consider it. Insolvency Watch: KPMG warns small business insolvencies are likely to rise as higher rates and new Budget taxes bite, with administrators up 11% year-on-year. Cost Pressure at the Checkout: Officeworks rolls out more permanent price cuts on desks, chairs and stationery—aimed at home offices and small business essentials. Trust Tax Uncertainty: Tax experts warn federal discretionary trust reforms could trigger major stamp duty hits despite proposed carveouts. Cashflow Reality: Research highlights GST becoming “working capital” for struggling businesses, underscoring how tax debts compound when cash runs tight. Tech for Work: OpenAI launches ChatGPT Work, connecting with Slack, Gmail and Google Drive to automate multi-step tasks. SME Demand Softening: New research says half of Australians will only support SMEs “if they can afford it,” pushing shoppers toward bigger retailers. Energy Bills: ACCC reports battery uptake is surging, but says consumer protections must keep pace—especially for virtual power plant arrangements.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.