Lynda McAlary-Smith has been reappointed as Victorian Small Business Commissioner for another five years.
Since being appointed in 2021, Commissioner McAlary-Smith has overseen the Commission during an unprecedented increase in demand for support from businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and a rapid transition to online dispute resolution services.
The Commission provides high quality, low-cost dispute resolution services and associated support to small business owners in Victoria.
During financial year 2023-24, the Commission responded to 7,357 enquiries and 1,795 applications for help to resolve a commercial dispute.
In its role as an advocate for business, the Commission has also engaged 65 local councils to sign the Small Business Friendly Council charter, which outlines their commitment to work together on championing a fair and competitive trading environment for small businesses.
The Victorian Small Business Commission was the first of its kind in Australia when it launched in 2003, and is an advocate for small businesses, educating them on their rights and responsibilities and helping resolve disputes.
Victoria is proudly home to over 701,000 small businesses that make up 97 percent of all Victorian businesses. Small businesses make a significant contribution to communities, local jobs, and the Victorian economy.
For more information about the Victorian Small Business Commission, please visit vsbc.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Small Business Natalie Suleyman
"Ms McAlary-Smith has been an outstanding Small Business Commissioner, I am so pleased that she will continue leading the dedicated team in their work, supporting Victorian small businesses."
"I look forward to continuing to work with Commissioner McAlary-Smith as she continues to advocate for Victoria's proud small business community."
As stated by Victorian Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlary-Smith
"I'm so pleased to be reappointed as Victoria's Small Business Commissioner for a five-year term. It's an honour to serve Victoria's 700,000 small businesses every day."
"Coming from a small business family, I have lived the highs and lows and want Victorian small businesses to know that the VSBC is here to help".
