Small businesses are benefiting from NIES services

13/1/94

Western Australia's small businesses are increasingly willing to invest in business improvement and it is a trend the State Government is keen to encourage, according to Commerce and Trade Minister Hendy Cowan.

He said that firms with fewer than 21 employees accounted for nearly half the services provided through Western Australia's NIES Better Business Program in 1992-93, up from 33 per cent in 1990-91.

The joint State-Commonwealth National Industry Extension Service program, delivered through the Department of Commerce and Trade, makes a contribution to help businesses use expert consultants to improve their design, production, marketing and management processes.

"These services will now be marketed through the network of 30 Business Enterprise Centres throughout the State," Mr Cowan said.

"The centres will help spread the message throughout the small business sector and that's where new jobs are being created.

"NIES has helped firms meet the quality assurance standards required by major private and Government purchasers, but it has also assisted with business planning, efficient manufacturing and human resource management and export marketing strategies.

"Although they have to make a substantial commitment, companies realise that their future, even in the local market, depends on being internationally competitive in quality and price.

"Also, the department has met small business half-way with new services which are more affordable and directly relevant to a small company.

"Among the small firms using the NIES program are manufacturers of products ranging from chemicals and clay bricks to fashion clothing and vacuum cleaners.  There are also companies providing services such as printing, land management planning and software."

Mr Cowan said interest in NIES programs was increasing across industry.

"In the five months since June, more than 180 separate NIES services have been approved. That compares with a total 118 in 1990-91," he said.

"This financial year the NIES program will approve nearly $2 million of funding.  About 20 per cent of this will go to businesses in the country."

Businesses interested in the program should contact the Department of Commerce and Trade on 327 5666.

Media contact:  Peter Jackson 222 9595