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Understanding family relationships to improve the family business

Healthy family business interactions are underpinned by healthy family relationships. Sometimes the collaboration and rapport-building practices taught in MBA programs don’t have the same traction in family businesses. If there’s relationship tension in your family business, strategies based on ‘Bowen family systems theory’ may help you get to the root of the problem, and help you find a solution.

Hear from Brandon Reynolds from The Yoghurt Shop on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW's Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. On 10 July 2024, Brandon Reynolds from The Yoghurt Shop joined Tony McManus to discuss the family business, their humble beginnings at the Adelaide Central Market, how it grew into the business it is today and future plans for the business expanding into some of the larger cities they work in.

Featured News & Articles

Meet Our Member: Auxilliam

After over 30 years of a career in financial services, Karen Vickers founded Auxilliam to provide strategic financial advice that helps families navigate aged care costs and preserve their hard-earned savings. FBA's NSW/ACT State Representative, Lisa Jay, spoke with Karen Vickers from Auxilliam to learn more about the family business, how it started and how they are making a difference in the aged care sector.

Meet Our Member: Indigo Imports

Indigo Imports, a family business run by Father Son duo, Dev and Gagan Singh, is a wholesaling company that supplies rugs, mats and carpet to national flooring stores, rug stores, online retailers, interior designers and furniture stores across Australia. We had a chat with them to find out more about their family business and how their products differ from other businesses. At the end of our chat, Dev also generously shared his advice for other family businesses.

5 reasons why finding the right support can transform your family business

Family business dynamics can be complex and isolating. Do you feel alone when facing family business challenges? I am here to tell you, you’re not alone and your problems are not unique. By discussing and resolving these issues with others who have the same experiences and genuinely understand your struggles, you can feel understood and empowered. Connecting with peers provides a network of support and guidance for every challenge you and your family business face.

Meet Our Member: Rawnsley Park Tourism

Overlooking the southern side of Wilpena Pound, Rawnsley Park Station provides the perfect base for exploring South Australia's beautiful Flinders Ranges. Over the 40 years that the Smith family has been operating there, Rawnsley Park has developed from a small family business into a tourism resort with an extensive range of accommodation and visitor experiences for both domestic and international visitors. We spoke with the Smith family to learn more about the family business and how they made tourism in the Flinders Ranges more attractive to international visitors.

A Letter to the Editor: Unintended Consequences of IR Legislation on Family Business

Family Business Association (FBA) advocates for the family business sector over concerns the upcoming Industrial Relations Legislation changes on 26 August will have unintended consequences on Australia’s family businesses.

Does your family have a prenup policy?

Your family business could face significant disruption if a family member needs to access money for a divorce settlement. That’s why it’s important to develop a family policy on prenuptial agreements to protect your business and wealth. We share tips on how to approach these sensitive conversations and why it’s important to start early.

Understanding family relationships to improve the family business

Healthy family business interactions are underpinned by healthy family relationships. Sometimes the collaboration and rapport-building practices taught in MBA programs don’t have the same traction in family businesses. If there’s relationship tension in your family business, strategies based on ‘Bowen family systems theory’ may help you get to the root of the problem, and help you find a solution.

Hear from Brandon Reynolds from The Yoghurt Shop on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW's Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. On 10 July 2024, Brandon Reynolds from The Yoghurt Shop joined Tony McManus to discuss the family business, their humble beginnings at the Adelaide Central Market, how it grew into the business it is today and future plans for the business expanding into some of the larger cities they work in.

Meet Our Member: Fallon Solutions

Since its inception in 1962 by Neil T Fallon, Fallon Solutions has been synonymous with quality and unparalleled service in the trade industry. We spoke with the Denning family, who has assumed leadership for the business, to learn more about their values and approach towards running the family business.

Call for FBA Director Nominations

Family Business Australia Ltd (trading as Family Business Association) is calling for Director Nominations across four regions - New South Wales/ACT, Queensland, South Australia/Northern Territory and Victoria/Tasmania - and encourage applications from FBA members by 26 August 2024. 

Our New Accredited Advisors

Congratulations to our recent graduates of Family Business Association's Accredited Advisor Program!

Welcome new Forum Group Facilitators

One door closes and 5 more open in our Forum Group Program as we say thank you and farewell to Peter Ivett and welcome 5 new Forum Facilitators across NSW/ACT and VIC/TAS.

Vale Rosemary Michell

FBA was saddened to hear of the passing of Rosemary Michell, a long-time friend of FBA.

Meet Our Member: Raffaele Ciuca Bridal

Raffaele Ciuca Bridal has proudly housed Australia’s most expansive selection of wedding dresses for over 65 years. Established in 1956 by Tina and her husband Raffaele Ciuca, the family, now in its 4th generation, continues to deliver masterful tailoring and fine garments to clients across Victoria and beyond. We caught up with Patricia and her mum, Tina, the matriarch of the family and CEO, to learn more about the family business, as well as reflect and appreciate all the family has achieved.

Results are in: Global Family Business Report 2024

The ability for family businesses to weave their legacy through generations is powerful as they pass down experiences, values and knowledge. Then it’s up to the next generation to leave their own mark by exploring new ideas that will take their legacy to another level.

A Great Evening at Brighton BMW

Last week, the Stillwell family opened their doors to Brighton BMW for our Meet the Owner Event to the delight of Victorian Family Business and Advisor Members.

Meet Our Member: iDrive Relocations Ltd

iDrive Relocations Ltd is a second generation family business who offer door to door vehicle delivery anywhere in New Zealand. We had a chat with Rachel Callister to learn more about the family business, what sets them apart in their industry and any advice she had for other family businesses.

Last Chance: It could be you!

Less than 2 weeks before submissions close for the Family Business Excellence Awards! Enter by next Friday, 12 July, to take your chance and be celebrated.

Meet Our Member: Grace Funerals

Grace Funerals is a compassionate funeral service provider that has been operating in the Blue Mountains for over a century. For over 12 years, they have been blending innovation and creativity with state-of the-art-technology, setting them apart in their industry. FBA's NSW State Representative, Lisa Jay, spoke with Asha Dooley to learn more about the family business and how they go the extra mile to tailor their services to honour every unique life of their clients' loved ones.

The power of family legacies

The Evolution of Family Business from tradition to innovation through legacy.

Recap: FBA's Winter Warmer Events Across Australia

Last Thursday night, Family Business Association (FBA) members from across Australia gathered for our Winter Warmer events. Despite the chilly weather in most parts of the country, it was great to see so many new and familiar faces enjoying each other’s company, swapping stories, and sharing advice.

Meet Our Member: Green Pillars Co.

An Australian importer since 2006, Nicola Depiazzi is a mother of three, avid runner and reader, nature enthusiast, and interested in mindset and personal development. FBA's WA State Representative, Katie McMeekin, spoke with Nicola from Green Pillars Co. to learn more about the family business, how it started and how they are helping other businesses achieve complete business reliability.

Underinsurance – the hidden risk

Many people in New Zealand don't have enough insurance to cover the full replacement value of their assets. This means they are underinsured and may face difficulties rebuilding their property or replacing possessions to the same standard if they are damaged or destroyed. Underinsurance often happens because people don't update their insurance based on the current replacement value of their assets such as property, business assets and other possessions.

Breaching Health and Safety Laws: Risks for Family Businesses and Their Owners

Shareholders and directors of businesses with significant health and safety risks need to understand what is at stake if they breach health and safety laws. Beyond criminal sanctions, an unprecedented case is testing whether assets acquired from business operations can be seized under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009 (CPRA) for health and safety offences. The CPRA allows authorities to trace and seize assets believed to be derived from significant criminal activity.

Building an Intentional Culture: A Guide for Family Businesses

Creating a strong, intentional culture is essential for any business, but it’s especially crucial for family-owned businesses. This guide offers practical advice on building an intentional culture that aligns with your business goals and values, ensuring that family dynamics do not interfere with business operations.

Why Family Business Matters? A Celebration of Ashton Valley Fresh

KPMG and Family Business Association (FBA) work together to support family businesses across our nation. Family Businesses are the backbone of Australia's economy and make a significant broader contribution to the communities in which they operate.

Meet Our Member: Global Confectionery

We spoke with Chris Mueller at Global Confectionery to learn more about the family business, their history and how they continue to grow and move the business forward.

Meet Our Member: Grundy's Shoes

Grundy’s Shoes, a proud South Australian family-owned and operated business, is now in its 156th year, spanning 7 generations and counting. Grundy's is the oldest continuous Rundle Street trader and one of the oldest family businesses in South Australia. FBA's SA State Representative, Amanda Russell, spoke with the team at Grundy’s Shoes to learn more about the family business, their history and how they continue to evolve.

Navigating Family Business Workshops for A Solid Foundation

In partnership with the Office for Small and Family Business, FBA is offering a series of three workshops specifically tailored to the unique needs of family businesses, providing you with practical knowledge and capability across three core family business areas - Succession, Governance and Legal Considerations. These workshops will provide you with practical knowledge that’s critical to improve business processes and drive sustainable growth for generations, no matter your stage in business.

Set yourself up for success

Access our exclusive suite of courses tailored specifically to the unique needs of family businesses. Gain practical knowledge and actionable steps to improve business processes and drive sustainable growth.

Access 60% Discount on FFI Membership

Through our continued partnership with FFI | Family Firm Institute, we are delighted to offer FBA Advisor Members a significantly discounted rate for an FFI Individual Membership Subscription. 

Hear from Val Montagnana-Wallace from Hyphen on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW's Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. On 28 May 2024, Val Montagnana-Wallace from Hyphen joined Tony McManus to discuss the family business, how Hyphen first started, how it grew into the business it is today and their future plans going forward.

Meet Our Member: Veggie Box

We spoke with new FBA members, Amanda and Charlie at Veggie Box, to learn more about the family business and the incredible work they do working with charities and community food banks.

Meet Our Member: Watkins Steels

FBA State Representative, Laura Suarez, spoke with FBA member, Des Watkins Jr., to learn more about the family business and the rich history behind the steel fabrication company spanning over five decades.

Meet Our Member: All Secure Self Storage

We spoke with the team at All Secure Self Storage to learn more about the family business, their legacy and their commitment to technology to enhance the customer experience.

Why Family Business Matters? A Celebration of A.H. Beard

KPMG and Family Business Association (FBA) work together to support family businesses across our nation. Family Businesses are the backbone of Australia's economy and make a significant broader contribution to the communities in which they operate.

Meet Our Member: AGEM Property Group

We spoke with FBA member, Adrian Fiore, to learn more about his family business and major milestones for the business.

Why Family Business Matters? A Celebration of SSS Strawberries

KPMG and Family Business Association (FBA) work together to support family businesses across our nation. Family Businesses are the backbone of Australia's economy and make a significant broader contribution to the communities in which they operate.

2024 Winners: Family Business Excellence Awards

Family Business Association celebrates success in family business through our annual Family Business Excellence Awards. Last night, we announced the 2024 Family Business Excellence Awards winners at the Family Business Conference 2024: Asia Pacific in Cairns. It was a fantastic night celebrating the achievements of family businesses across Australia and New Zealand.

Hear from Rachel Beard from A.H. Beard on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW's Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. On 1 May 2024, Rachel Beard from A.H. Beard joined Tony McManus to discuss the family business, the rich history behind the business' 125 years of legacy, its humble beginnings, how it grew into the business it is today and the next generation working in the business.

Meet Our Member: Soniclean

We spoke with the team at Soniclean to learn more about their story and family business.

Why Family Business Matters? A Celebration of Allin Towbars

KPMG and Family Business Association (FBA) work together to support family businesses across our nation. Family Businesses are the backbone of Australia's economy and make a significant broader contribution to the communities in which they operate.

What sustains a successful and enduring family business?

The team at Stewardship Asia Centre share how the best family businesses succeed at sustaining their organisations, the key traits of successful family businesses and how a genuine desire and persistence to create a collective better future for stakeholders, society, future generations and the environment, called Steward Leadership, can help sustain a family business.

Meet Our Member: Pamela Jabbour from Total Image Group

We spoke with FBA member, Pamela Jabbour from Total Image Group, to learn more about their family business and the work they do in designing fit-for-purpose and fashion-forward uniforms.

Why Family Business Matters? A Celebration of the Smithbridge Group

KPMG and Family Business Association (FBA) work together to support family businesses across our nation. Family Businesses are the backbone of Australia's economy and make a significant broader contribution to the communities in which they operate.

Navigating Australia’s Privacy Act as a Family Business Owner

In response to the recent 2023 changes to the Australian Privacy Act, Peter Gatt at Majestic Computer Technology explores what these changes mean for your business and the family business community.

Hear from Daniel O'Sullivan from Abbe on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW's Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. On 17 April 2024, Daniel O'Sullivan from Abbe joined Tony McManus in the studio to discuss the family business, how it all started, how it grew into the business it is today and the next generation coming up in the business.

Last Chance to Register | Family Business Conference

Only two weeks to go until we all come together in Cairns! This is your last chance to register for the Family Business Conference 2024: Asia Pacific. 

Meet Our Member: Val Montagnana-Wallace from Hyphen

We spoke with FBA member, Val Montagnana-Wallace at Hyphen, to have a chat about her family business.

Why Family Business Matters? A Celebration of Kennards Hire

KPMG and Family Business Association (FBA) work together to support family businesses across our nation. Family Businesses are the backbone of Australia's economy and make a significant broader contribution to the communities in which they operate.

Meet Our Member: Brooks Hire Service

We spoke with the team at Brooks Hire Service to learn more about their history and family business as they celebrate their 45th anniversary.

Your Conference, Your Way | Family Business Conference

There is less than 4 weeks to go until we come together in Cairns for the Family Business Conference 2024: Asia Pacific!

Hear from Grant Menzies from Adina Watches on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW's Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. On 3 April 2024, Grant Menzies from Adina Watches joined Tony McManus to discuss the family business, how it all started and the succession planning for the business.

Why family businesses should think about gender diversity and their bottom line

It’s now proven that diversity in business – and not just in top leadership positions – can improve overall performance. But exactly how does it lead to an improvement in the bottom line? Here’s what the research says.

Meet Our Member: Stockyard Beef

We spoke with Rebecca and Ali Hart from Stockyard Beef, FBA members in the premium beef industry, to learn more about their family business.

Family Business Association and KPMG’s New Partnership to strengthen support for New Zealand Family Businesses

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to announce a strategic partnership with KPMG New Zealand (KPMG), a leading professional services firm with global reach and deep expertise across the family business sector.

Being in business can be lonely, a group of trusted peers can make it easier

After attending and running a workshop at an FBA Forum Group Program retreat, Accredited Advisor Dean Robinson reflected on the program, his experience at the retreat and shares key takeaways for family businesses.

Meet Our Member: CPR Hair

FBA State Representative, Lisa Jay, spoke with FBA member, Cass Donnelly to learn more about his family business and the rich history behind Australia's first haircare manufacturer.

Hear from Ray Borda from Macro Group Australia on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW's Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. On 20 March 2024, Ray Borda from Macro Group Australia joined Tony McManus to discuss his family business, the history and the next generation.

Enhance Your Experience | Family Business Conference

Only six weeks until the Family Business Conference 2024: Asia Pacific gets underway in Cairns. We are looking forward to coming together once again as a family business community to connect and learn across 30 April - 3 May.

Meet Our Member: Uroxsys Limited

We had a chat with Uroxsys Limited, new FBA members in the chemical manufacture and polymer development industry, to learn more about their family business.

Navigating the Complexities of Family Business: Building a Solid Foundation for Success through the Accountability Chart

Running a business can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. One of the toughest hurdles is finding and keeping the right people in the right roles, especially as the business grows and evolves. This challenge is compounded when family members are part of the mix.

Record fines reinforce the importance of compliance with consumer protection laws

Significant penalties are being used by the Courts to ensure businesses both correctly market their goods and services and maintain adequate processes and systems to ensure that promises to customers are carried out. In this article, we discuss recent cases and key learnings to help family businesses comply with consumer protection laws.

Who owns the assets when inter-family asset protection arrangements are disputed?

Kylie Wilson and Deborah Johnson from Sparke Helmore Lawyers highlight what can happen when inter-family asset protection arrangements are disputed. So what should you do if you are thinking about a restructure?

Your Last Chance: Early Bird Offer

There’s less than two months until the Family Business Conference 2024: Asia Pacific gets underway in Cairns. We’re excited to bring a line-up of family business experts from across Australia and the world, who will share invaluable insights on sustainable growth and harmony.

Meet Our Member: AgXtra

We spoke with FBA member, Richard Porter from AgXtra, to learn more about his family business and the contributions the business is making to local communities.

Celebrating Women in Family Business this International Women’s Day

This International Women's Day we are so proud to celebrate all the incredible women in family business, and the contributions they make to their businesses, families and the wider community. Hear from seven women in family business as they open up about their experiences in family business and give advice for how we can empower the next generation of female leaders.

Your Family Business success hinges on the amalgam of Health, Wealth and Technology

Peter Gatt, Business Development Manager at Majestic Computer Technology shares insights into how three domains - health, wealth and technology – are important in the family business context and how they can help achieve your objectives.

Hear from Emily Hammon from Scenic World on 3AW's Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW and 5AA Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. On 6 March 2024, Emily Hammon from Scenic World joined Tony McManus to discuss their family business and their plans for the future.

Introducing the Full Program: Family Business Conference

Introducing the full program for the Family Business Conference 2024: Asia Pacific! A jam-packed program tailored specifically for family businesses, aimed at achieving sustained harmony and growth for both the business and family.  

Meet Our Member: Steve Plarre from Plarre Food Group

Our VIC/TAS State Representative, Tim Smith, paid a visit to Steve Plarre at the Plarre Food Group to have a chat about their family business growth and being an early adopter of sustainability.

Introducing: Self-Paced Online Strategic Business Planning Course for Family Businesses

In a first for Family Business Association, family businesses can now access an on-demand, self-paced online course to develop a tailored strategic plan. Introducing the Strategic Business Planning Course for Family Businesses, available now.

FBA Partners with Andreyev Lawyers to Enhance Support for South Australian Family Businesses

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to announce a new South Australian state-based partnership with Andreyev Lawyers, a renowned legal firm supporting the family business sector.

Your Conference: Uniquely Family Business Specific

As the only conference in the Southern Hemisphere dedicated to family business, the Family Business Conference: Asia-Pacific 2024 is a rare opportunity to come together with family businesses from across Australia and New Zealand, and delve into all aspects of business, with a family business lens.

Meet Our Member: Liam and Madeline at Wet Paint Maintenance

We had a chat to new FBA members, Liam and Madeline at Wet Paint Maintenance, to talk about their family business.

10 tips for creating a great family business

FBA Accredited Advisor, John Broons provides a list of key strategies and tips to help family businesses thrive and succeed across generations.

Meet Our Member: Danielle Robertson from DR Care Solutions

We sat down with FBA member Danielle Robertson, Founder and CEO of DR Care Solutions, to learn more about her experience in private care services and what led her to start her own family business.

Hear from Michael Stillwell from Stillwell Group, and special guest David Mann on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW and 5AA Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. Listen to the second segment from 7 February 2024, featuring Michael Stillwell from Stillwell Group and special guest, David Mann.

Early succession planning can help avoid expensive and draining litigation

The Australian Financial Review explores how family businesses have the potential to become a battleground, when the next generation disputes who gets what. Family Business Association (FBA) CEO, Catherine Sayer, spoke with the Financial Review to shed light on the importance of succession planning for family businesses to avoid disputes over verbal agreements.

Family Business Association Welcomes WA Leaders as Alliance Partner

Family Business Association (FBA) are thrilled to announce an exciting new chapter in the growth and support of family businesses across Western Australia through our new Alliance Partner, WA Leaders.

Meet Our Member: Tory and Amanda Greer at Stainless Steel Wire & Mesh (SSWM)

We had a chat with Tory and Amanda Greer, from Stainless Steel Wire & Mesh (SSWM), who have been members of FBA since 2019 and are also active members of FBA's Forum Group Program, to learn more about their family business, the Greer family history in the wire industry and the incredible work they do to protect Australians from bushfires.

Family Business Association Strengthens Regional Ties through Partnership with BSW Connect

Family Business Association (FBA) welcomes a new Alliance Partner in Western Australia, BSW Connect, highlighting the commitment of both organisations in ensuring that family businesses in the Southwest of Western Australia grow and thrive.

Hear from Catherine Sayer on 3AW Australia Overnight with Tony McManus

Family Business Association (FBA) is proud to be promoting Australian Family Businesses through a fortnightly segment on 3AW and 5AA Australia Overnight with Tony McManus. Listen to the first segment from 24 January 2024, featuring Catherine Sayer, FBA CEO.

Opinion Piece: Much more is needed to help small businesses

Family Business Association CEO, Catherine Sayer, and Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) CEO, Luke Achterstraat, jointly wrote an opinion piece on the impact the proposed Industrial Relations (IR) changes will have on small and family businesses. Published in The Daily Telegraph.

Family Business Association and Hood Sweeney join forces in inaugural state partnership

Family Business Association (FBA) has signed a partnership agreement with Hood Sweeney, forging its first state-based partnership in South Australia.

Meet Our Member: Jimboomba Turf

We sat down with Lynn Davidson, Managing Director of Jimboomba Turf, an FBA member in Queensland, to talk about his business, family and why he values being a member of FBA.

Vale Richard Owens AM

FBA Chair, Angus Kennard reflects on the life of family business legend, Richard Owens AM.

Get a Global Perspective: The Family Business Conference 2024

We are thrilled to share our line-up of international family business experts presenting at this year's conference. Whether they are travelling from across the world, or across the ditch, these global experts bring a wealth of family business experience and knowledge that transcends borders.

Meet Our Member: Adelaide Direct Stationers

We caught up with our member, Tim Whittaker at Adelaide Direct Stationers to hear how FBA has supported his second-generation family business journey over the years.

A Letter To the Editor: Family businesses – the ‘Silent’ sector

Family Business Association (FBA) advocates for the family business sector in relation to the proposed industrial relations (IR) legislation.

Helping businesses make better insurance decisions

Insurance brokers play a vital role in providing comprehensive insurance guidance, helping businesses to make well-informed decisions about their policies.

Meet Our Member: Heartland Chips

We sat down with Heartland Chips & Fallgate Farm, an FBA member in the food manufacturing and agriculture industry in New Zealand, to talk about their business and family.

Risk in Family Business

Business risk is something we think about, and which keeps us up at night, but we don’t always approach it in a proactive and structured way. A gambler takes risk (and enjoys the ride); an entrepreneur manages risk. Family businesses have certain attributes that lead to additional risks compared to other businesses. Indeed, some of the perceived strengths of family businesses are a double-edged sword that have corresponding risks.

The 2024 Events & Education Calendar – See what’s on for the year!

We’re delighted to release the 2024 Events & Education Calendar. It’s jam packed full of education, networking and social activities that are sure to enrich you and your family business.

Cybersecurity and the supply chain—Are your suppliers your weakest link?

Many companies entrust third parties with access to their data and systems but if they haven’t implemented the right cyber security measures, they could put a company at risk of a serious breach.

Navigating the Impact of Inflation on Commercial Contracts

After decades of low inflation, New Zealand finds itself in a high inflation world where rapid price rises have become the new normal and many businesses are suffering from margin compression. Many longer-term contracts have been negotiated with little thought about the possibility of high inflation returning. Some will become difficult or unprofitable to perform. By being proactive, family businesses can take steps to protect themselves from the negative effects of inflation and margin compression.

Intergenerational Discretionary Trusts

Discretionary trusts, often called family trusts, are important structures frequently used in intergenerational family business. As multiple family members are usually beneficiaries of such trust entities the treatment of the assets of these trusts are often considered in family law proceedings.

To AI or not to AI, this is not the question. Balancing Strategy and Insurance

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are revolutionising the business landscape and driving unprecedented changes across industries. Businesses are leveraging these technologies to create scalable solutions, improve production processes, automate tasks, and optimize customer service. However, this digital transformation is not without its challenges. It brings with it a host of reputational, regulatory, and legal risks.

The value in joining FBA's Forum program

Learning through shared perspectives and having a trusted ‘’safe space’’ to workshop challenges are 2 pillars of FBA’s highly successful Forum program. Our Forum Group program helps members become part of a trusted advisory board, leading to improved family business dynamics and personal and professional enrichment.

What do award-winning family businesses do to keep the family & the business happy?

Let’s look at some of the things that world-leading family businesses do to keep things clear & achieve the best results. The best family businesses have clearly defined & separated their family from the family business & ownership of family assets.

Celebrating National Family Business Day

Every September, Australia and New Zealand celebrates National Family Business Day – a day designed to recognise the significant contribution family businesses make to the Australian economy, community and culture. This year, National Family Business Day will take place on Tuesday, 19 September 2023.

Crombie Lockwood’s global insurance expertise for Fix and Fogg's spreading success

Awards from the Wellington business community are a far cry from what started as a ‘weekend hobby’ in 2013. Former lawyers Roman and Andrea Jewell started making jars of their now-famous range of spreads on Friday nights to sell on the weekends at local farmers markets in Wellington...

More zebra, less unicorn: the story of Pronto Software

Chad Gates, Managing Director of Pronto Software, was invited to deliver a welcome address at the recent Family Business Conference 2019. Here are excerpts from his presentation.

ANZ Private Investment Insights

Amidst the volatility that has characterised markets for much of 2022, ANZ Private recently hosted client events across Australia.

Right size, bite size

“There are so many things that can go wrong in a kitchen, and just as quickly as you make money, you can lose it. Having that security blanket in place is super important...

Tribute to Raymond Michell

Raymond together with his wife Rosemary were FBA life members and Raymond was instrumental in the origins of Family Business Australia...

Learn how to improve profit with these basic principles

So you want to improve the profitability of your business but don’t know where to start?

60 seconds with Mimmo Lubrano - CEO of Sandhurst Fine Foods

Here at Brands of Kin we are rather partial to good food, and even more so to a story of a generational family business...

Turning the wheels of our financial systems towards a sustainable future

The Sustainable Business Network (SBN) and Grant Thornton New Zealand recently released their report into the barriers New Zealand’s current financial system creates for meaningful progress towards a low carbon circular economy.

How inflation could affect your insurance claim

Inflation rates are at record highs in developed economies around the world and are not only devaluing the dollar but also potentially...

Do you know who has ultimate control of the income and assets of your family trust?

A family trust can often be the right vehicle to carry on your family business and manage family wealth...

Shaping your legacy - five mistakes to avoid

Would your assets end up in the right hands if you passed away suddenly?

Navigating the new .AU domain and why it matters

Building and maintaining your brand these days can begin and end with your online presence...

Crombie Lockwood’s expertise helping winemakers conquer the world

Maude Wines owner and winemaker, Dan Dineen, is pragmatic about the various risks commercial winemakers face at every step of the growing, producing and transporting process.

Three Ways to Make Others Feel Good When Giving Feedback

If you’re a leader looking for the best ways to give constructive feedback, you’re in good company...

A Great Culture Needs an IT Operational Backbone to Ensure Success

Leaders are the backbone of a family business...

Protect and Preserve

I recently visited and observed a once vibrant and profitable business that had descended into mediocrity...

Confused about enterprise agreements? Give it the BOOT

Something that sets family businesses apart from others is a focus on family values...

2022 winners of the Family Business Excellence Awards

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2022 winners of the Family Business Excellence Awards...

The New Matriarchs

The days of male-line primogeniture (where the eldest son inherits the entire estate) are waning, as a result of generational shifts in attitudes...

Selling a house vs selling a family business

The family business is the greatest financial asset owned by the family and starting a divestment process can be quite daunting...

Property and construction forums reveal huge challenges – and a few bright spots

A recent series of property and construction sector forums hosted by Grant Thornton New Zealand provided insights into some of the biggest talking points across the sector.

The Skills Shortage: Attract & Screen Incredible Talent for your Family Business

More than ever we are in a war for great talent, the uncertainty of the last couple of years has left a lasting impact on the job market, with fewer candidates applying across all industries...

Australia’s Summit for Women in Family Businesses is back for 2022

After a three year hiatus, the Women in Family Business Network (WIFBN) National Conference now called “Elevate Summit” is back on...

NZ’s progress on environment & sustainability: A view from the year 2030

The year is 2030. I’m sitting in my home office in an apartment that’s ironically located in what used to be an office building...

Six generations of sparkle - A 200 year old jewellery dynasty

Few businesses in New Zealand can claim to have as prestigious a history as Partridge Jewellers. Family-operated since the 1800s, with the sixth generation now working in the business, it is a veritable dynasty —a fact that isn’t lost on its current leader, Grant Partridge...

How family business have proved their resilience

Family businesses in Australia have outperformed other organisational models in riding out the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, due to...

It’s Not What You Know, It’s What You Can Prove In Court

Small and family business employers may not be aware of stringent record-keeping obligations under the Fair Work Act 2009...

Competitive SA Industry Leaders Fund Scheme Opens 2022 Round!

South Australia’s Industry Leaders Fund has opened its 2022 study grant scheme...

When does the survivor under a mutual will agreement have trustee obligations?

A recent case has provided a detailed analysis of the law on mutual will agreements and its effectiveness as an estate planning tool in modern blended families...

Are You Hindering Your Business Potential Without Knowing IT?

Most owners think they are doing a great job in IT, but in reality, a hidden problem looms silently, until one day it all comes crashing down

Diversifying your investment strategy for changing times

With cash looking set to deliver negative real returns in the years to come, savvy investors are seeking alternative opportunities to achieve diversification and growth within their portfolios...

Sound Governance - It's Not a Choice; It's Essential

Governance in a public company is challenging enough.When Governance is working within your family business, family members and all people working in your business are clear about...

Bond Test News Article

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Letting Go of the Reins

Only about 3% of all family businesses operate into the fourth generation or beyond...

Family Constitutions - Is the Hype Real?

We have all heard the statistics that 70% of wealth transfers to the next generation fail. When this moves past 2nd generation and into the 3rd generation and beyond, this failure rate is above 90%.

Get to know Fellow FBA Member - Dracula's Cabaret

Dracula's Cabaret Operations and Production Manager, Luke Newman, gives his personal insight into the pros and cons of working in a family business in the interview below...

One Plus One Equals Three

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Mixing Family and Business, or Love and Work: Candy Cane or Dynamite!

Family businesses are also made up of two components: 'family' and 'business'...

Get to know fellow FBA member - Bennetts Steel

Bennetts Steel General Manager, Shiree Bennett, gives her personal insight into the pros and cons of working in a family business in the interview below...

Tips to help family business owners embrace their entrepreneurial spirit

ntrepreneurs are by nature innovative, creative, and risk takers. But, not all entrepreneurs are successful business owners...

What insurance does my small business need?

Insurance is crucial for small businesses as it provides valuable support for many potential negative impacts and can represent the difference between survival or closure in crucial times...

When your attorneys are not enduring

An enduring power of attorney allows a person to appoint someone they trust to make decisions about their personal, health or financial matters at...

Get to know fellow FBA member - Birdsnest

Birdsnest founder, Jane Cay, gives her personal insight into the pros and cons of working in a family business in the interview below...

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