Discover what matters to family businesses across Australia - 2025 Family Business Barometer Report
Family Business Association and Pronto Software have released the results of the biennial Family Business Barometer survey report titled: ‘What matters to family businesses – The largest sector in Australia’. The Family Business Barometer Report explores the evolving landscape of family businesses, highlighting your vital contribution to the global and national economy, and examining the various factors that influence family businesses' success and sustainability through generations.
This latest report explores what's keeping family businesses awake at night, the factors that drive success, barriers to growth, long-term goals and government policy opportunities. From future vision and financial security to technology innovation and business efficiencies, the report provides a comprehensive look at the landscape of the family business sector.
Download 2025 Family Business Barometer Report
Almost half (48%) of survey respondents, said the future vision of their company, goals and strategy is the main thing keeping them up at night, and 54% said providing financial security for future generations is a top priority.
Over half (55%) of respondents said they are actively investing in and adopting new technologies, revealing the innovative flair of the sector and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
Other factors on the minds of family business leaders include improving business efficiencies and operations, and succession planning complexities.
The report aims to uncover the unique experiences, opportunities and challenges for the family business sector which includes small, medium and large businesses.
Catherine Sayer, CEO, Family Business Association, said family businesses make up 70% of businesses in Australia and need to be represented at the policy decision-making table. Their strength in long-term thinking and building their balance sheet resilience to navigate the peaks and troughs of the economy also sets family businesses apart from other sectors.
“The results reflect current challenges business leaders are facing including external economic factors, cost of labour, and cash flow.
“The report uncovered key factors for family businesses success including strong family values, dedicated team of employees and customer loyalty.
“These factors have allowed the sector to continually navigate extremely difficult situations, as they stand strong in their values and purpose to deliver the highest quality products and services. This is why 70% of consumers prefer to buy from family businesses – they are highly trusted and known to have integrity.
“With a unique set of needs, the voices of family businesses need to be heard - for their success directly impacts half of Australia’s population and the national economy,” said Sayer.
Chad Gates, Managing Director, Pronto Software, said family businesses are leaders in embracing and adopting new technologies to support more efficient practices.
“Although the economy has presented challenges, it’s positive to see over half of survey respondents investing in new technologies, even during economic downturns. This is smart business, as it ensures you’re ready to accelerate when things turn around.
“Like all businesses, acquiring talent remains a key challenge, so investing in technology that streamlines processes and relieves pressure from teams is key to managing workflows and retaining staff.
“To successfully implement and integrate technology, it’s essential to have a strategic plan that details digital adoption. Businesses that overcome these challenges will reap the rewards,” says Gates.
The results clearly show the family business sector is driven to succeed and focused on the key tools to ensure long-term growth in 2025.
