ASBFEO Advocacy: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Small business owners in Australia can access free assistance to resolve payment disputes and issues with unfair contracts.
This scheme provides assistance to small business owners who are dealing with legal or financial disagreements. It acts as an ombudsman—an official who investigates complaints and helps resolve conflicts between parties.
Who it's for
This service is specifically designed for small business owners who are currently facing disputes. If you are running a small business and have encountered a conflict that requires external assistance to resolve, you may qualify for this support.
What you get
You can access assistance to help navigate and resolve specific business disagreements. This includes help with payment disputes, such as when you are owed money or are struggling with payment terms. Additionally, the service provides support regarding unfair contracts, helping you address terms that may be one-sided or problematic for your business operations.
What it costs you
The mediation services provided through this scheme are free for those who qualify. There are no fees charged for the mediation process used to help resolve your dispute.
The catch to know
It is important to understand the specific scope of this service. This scheme is focused strictly on helping you manage and resolve active disputes. It is not a general business advisory service, so it cannot be used for general business advice, strategic planning, or day-to-day operational guidance.
How to apply
- Determine if your current situation is a specific dispute regarding a payment or a contract.
- Visit the official portal to review the specific requirements for mediation.
- Follow the guided steps on the website to submit your details for review.