Blog.

Welcome to the halkin blog.

Your source for weekly stories and advice on local business, the economy in general and what’s happening in Sydney this weekend.

Strengthening Your Startup: The Power of Fractional CFO Strategy

Strengthening Your Startup: The Power of Fractional CFO Strategy

Are you a startup founder striving to navigate the complex financial landscape while steering your business toward success? If so, you're well aware that financial management is the backbone of any thriving enterprise. As your business evolves and grows, the need for strategic financial expertise becomes increasingly critical. That's where the concept of fractional CFO (Chief Financial Officer) comes into play.

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A Marketing Cheat Sheet for Local Service-Based Small Businesses
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

A Marketing Cheat Sheet for Local Service-Based Small Businesses

In today's digital age, the internet has become a powerful tool for small business owners looking to expand their reach and grow their enterprises. This is especially true for service-based businesses that cater to local customers. Leveraging the online landscape effectively can significantly boost visibility, attract new clients, and enhance overall business success.

Here's a marketing cheat sheet we created for small business owners on how to harness the power of the internet to foster local growth.

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The Benefits of Outsourced Accounting Services for Small and Medium-Sized Business Owners
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

The Benefits of Outsourced Accounting Services for Small and Medium-Sized Business Owners

Running a small or medium-sized business (SMBs) can be a Herculean task. Business owners often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities, from managing day-to-day operations to devising long-term growth strategies.

Amidst this chaos, financial management remains a cornerstone of success. To alleviate the burden and ensure financial stability, many SMB owners turn to outsourced accounting services.

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Supporting Small Businesses: A Weekend Guide to Sydney's Local Gems
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

Supporting Small Businesses: A Weekend Guide to Sydney's Local Gems

Sydney, Australia's vibrant and diverse city, is not only known for its stunning landmarks but also for its thriving small business community.

This weekend, why not explore the city in a unique way by supporting local entrepreneurs and artisans? From farmers markets to outdoor shopping, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy and contribute to Sydney's small business scene. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your weekend while showing your support for local businesses.

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A Guide to Starting a Business in Sydney, Australia
strategic advisory Grant Lyons strategic advisory Grant Lyons

A Guide to Starting a Business in Sydney, Australia

Starting a business in Sydney can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. Sydney is not only Australia's largest city but also a global economic hub with a diverse and dynamic business environment. However, like any entrepreneurial journey, starting a business in Sydney requires careful planning and adherence to various regulations and requirements.

Here’s a quick 12 Step Guide, walking you through some essential, top-level references and providing recommendations to help you successfully launch your business.

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The Economic and Unity Boost: The 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

The Economic and Unity Boost: The 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup

The 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup has proven to be a win-win for Australia and New Zealand, offering substantial economic benefits and fostering national unity. As these nations continue to bask in the glory of hosting this prestigious event, they also look forward to a brighter future with enhanced tourism, infrastructure, and global recognition.

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Unlocking Success: The Perks of Being a Small Business Owner in Australia
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

Unlocking Success: The Perks of Being a Small Business Owner in Australia

In the vast landscape of entrepreneurship, the allure of being a small business owner shines brightly, particularly in the dynamic Australian market.

The land Down Under offers a plethora of advantages that make the journey of running a small business not only rewarding but also filled with promising opportunities. From an enviable lifestyle to the potential for global expansion, let's delve into the perks that await those who venture into the realm of Australian small business ownership.

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Australian Workplace Updates – July/Aug 2023
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

Australian Workplace Updates – July/Aug 2023

halkin HR News

Topic: Australian Workplace Updates – July/Aug 2023. New workplace policies are out for July/August. We've created a PDF to give you a good overview of the updates regarding:

- Minimum Wage Policy
- Superannuation
- Parental Leave
- Sexual Harassment
- Workplace Shutdowns
- Work Visas

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From Local to Global: Inspiring Australian SMBs Navigating International Markets
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

From Local to Global: Inspiring Australian SMBs Navigating International Markets

In the dynamic world of business, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs) in Australia are defying limits and charting remarkable growth trajectories. Many have successfully leveraged their strong foundation of loyal local customers as a springboard for international expansion. This article sheds light on the inspiring stories of Australian SMBs that transformed from local startups into global powerhouses, showcasing their strategies and offering insights to inspire others to follow suit.

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Expanding Horizons: How Australian SMBs are Conquering International Markets
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

Expanding Horizons: How Australian SMBs are Conquering International Markets

The expansion of Australian SMBs into international markets presents a promising avenue for growth and innovation.

As technology, e-commerce, and global demand continue to evolve, entrepreneurs across various sectors are leveraging strategic approaches and government support to establish a strong foothold in international markets. Through careful planning, cultural understanding, and the utilization of available grants and incentives, Australian SMBs are breaking down borders and reshaping the landscape of global business.

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Navigating Success: Timeless Advice for Small Business Owners
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

Navigating Success: Timeless Advice for Small Business Owners

In the intricate dance of entrepreneurship, the best advice for small business owners transcends time and borders. Drawing from the insights of business luminaries like Richard Branson, Warren Buffett, Jeff Bezos, Steve Jobs, James Cash Penney, and Scott Belsky, Australian SMBs can pave a path to prosperity. By embodying qualities such as resilience, continuous learning, customer-centricity, innovation, teamwork, and financial prudence, small business owners can navigate the ever-evolving landscape with confidence, turning challenges into opportunities and dreams into achievements.

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Federal Budget 2023-2024
tax, strategic advisory Grant Lyons tax, strategic advisory Grant Lyons

Federal Budget 2023-2024

On Tuesday 9th May the Australian public received the 2023-2024 Federal Budget.

The overall economic outlook was an improvement in the cash balance and net business debt resulting in a $4 billion surplus. In addition, Treasury is forecasting the economy to slow over the coming 2 years.

Please read on below for key takeaways on the budget initiatives and, as always, our consultants are here to help, so reach out to us to have a conversation about how the budget initiatives can fit in to your circumstances and financial goals.

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BIG vs. Small. How SMBs can do More with Less.

BIG vs. Small. How SMBs can do More with Less.

I’ve been in startups pretty much my entire working life. At least since I was 20 years old.

Since then, I’ve always been competing against other larger, more established, better funded businesses. It made me better by learning how to do more with less.

Here are a few broad tips based on some of the things I’ve found where small can go toe-to-toe with BIG without having to outspend them.

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Knowing is Growing. Building a Work Culture that Supports Learning.
hr Grant Lyons hr Grant Lyons

Knowing is Growing. Building a Work Culture that Supports Learning.

It’s a digital, fast-paced economy and I t's more important than ever for companies to stay ahead of the game. One way to achieve this is by creating a culture of continuous learning, where employees are encouraged to constantly improve their skills and knowledge. It’s obviously good for the business, but more importantly, it’s great for personal growth and self esteem.

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Work Restrictions for Student Visa Holders
Grant Lyons Grant Lyons

Work Restrictions for Student Visa Holders

We are delighted to share with you that Immigration has announced from 1 July 2023, work restrictions for student visa holders will be re-introduced and capped at the increased rate of 48 hours per fortnight.

Although this is not completely the increase in hours we were all hoping for, it still ensures that student visa holders are able to focus on obtaining a quality Australian education and qualification, while remaining able to support themselves financially, gain valuable work experience, and contribute to Australia’s workforce needs.

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