Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future concept—it is already transforming the way businesses operate. From content creation and marketing to customer service, administration and decision-making, AI tools are rapidly becoming part of everyday business operations.

Recognising both the opportunities and challenges this presents, the Armadale Chamber recently hosted an AI & Business Compliance Workshop featuring Juan Perez, Principal of Quest Legal.

The session brought together local business owners and professionals eager to better understand how AI can be implemented responsibly while managing the legal risks that often go unnoticed.

AI Adoption is Growing Faster Than Regulation

One of the key themes explored during the workshop was the speed at which businesses are adopting AI technologies compared to the development of laws and regulations governing their use.

While AI can significantly improve efficiency and productivity, Juan highlighted that many organisations are unknowingly exposing themselves to risks relating to privacy, confidentiality, intellectual property, data security and compliance obligations.

For many attendees, the workshop was a timely reminder that implementing AI is not simply a technology decision—it is also a governance and risk management consideration.

Understanding the Risks

Throughout the session, Juan provided practical examples of how businesses may inadvertently create legal exposure when using AI platforms.

Topics discussed included:

• Uploading confidential client or business information into AI tools
• Ownership of AI-generated content
• Privacy obligations when handling customer data
• Employee use of AI systems without appropriate policies
• Intellectual property risks
• The importance of maintaining human oversight over AI-generated outputs

Importantly, Juan translated complex legal concepts into practical advice that small and medium-sized businesses could immediately understand and apply.

Practical Guidance for Business Owners

One of the most valuable aspects of the workshop was its practical focus.

Rather than simply discussing potential risks, attendees were provided with clear guidance on how to establish appropriate controls and governance measures within their organisations.

Juan encouraged businesses to proactively review how AI is currently being used across their operations and to develop clear internal guidelines that help employees understand what is acceptable and what may create legal exposure.

A Generous Contribution to the Business Community

A highlight of the session was Juan's generosity in providing attendees with a sample AI Policy that businesses can use as a foundation for developing their own internal AI governance framework.

This practical resource gave participants a tangible starting point for implementing responsible AI practices within their organisations.

The workshop also featured an engaging question-and-answer session, with business owners raising real-world scenarios and seeking guidance on how AI can be safely integrated into their businesses.

The quality of the discussion demonstrated the growing interest among local businesses in understanding both the opportunities and responsibilities associated with AI adoption.

Supporting Businesses Through Education

As technology continues to evolve, education and awareness will play a critical role in helping businesses remain competitive while protecting themselves from unnecessary risk.

The Armadale Chamber is committed to delivering practical learning opportunities that help local businesses navigate emerging challenges, embrace innovation and build sustainable growth.

We extend our sincere thanks to Juan Perez and the team at Quest Legal for sharing their expertise, practical insights and resources with our business community.

The strong attendance and engagement throughout the workshop highlighted just how important this topic has become for businesses of all sizes.

AI is here to stay. The businesses that thrive will be those that embrace its potential while implementing the right safeguards to ensure compliance, accountability and responsible use.

For businesses seeking legal advice on AI governance, compliance or commercial matters, we encourage you to connect with Quest Legal for tailored guidance.

Together, we can ensure that innovation and compliance go hand in hand.

The Armadale Chamber of Commerce is encouraging local businesses to keep an eye on a proposed new Shopfront Improvement Grant pilot currently being explored by the City of Armadale as part of its upcoming 2026/27 financial year budget discussions.

If approved, the 12-month pilot program could provide up to $5,000 in matched funding to businesses located within key areas of Kelmscott and Central Armadale to improve the appearance of their shopfronts and commercial premises.

The initiative is designed to support local economic activation while helping revitalise the streetscape and overall presentation of the town centre. Proposed eligible improvements are expected to include:

• New or upgraded signage
• External painting and façade improvements
• Lighting upgrades
• Minor façade repairs and visual enhancements

Under the proposed matched funding model, businesses may be able to receive up to $5,000 in funding when matching the same amount invested into their property improvements.

The Chamber sees this as a positive step toward strengthening the local business environment and improving the presentation of key commercial precincts throughout the region.

At this stage, the grant program has not yet been officially approved or opened for applications. The proposal was discussed as part of the May 2026 Council budget considerations, with further updates expected following the finalisation of the City’s budget process.

Once approved, applications are likely to be administered directly through the City of Armadale’s Economic Development team and made available via the City’s grants and funding channels.

Businesses interested in the proposed program are encouraged to:

• Monitor updates from the City of Armadale
• Register their interest early with the Economic Development Team
• Start considering potential shopfront improvements that may qualify

For businesses wanting to prepare early or seek further information, the City of Armadale Economic Development Team can be contacted on (08) 9394 5833 or via email at economicdevelopmentteam@armadale.wa.gov.au.

The Armadale Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for initiatives that support local business growth, activation and investment across the region.

Keep an eye out for more information and future updates as the proposed grant program progresses.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is creating ripple effects across the global economy, impacting fuel prices, supply chains, and business confidence. For small businesses across Armadale and wider Western Australia, these pressures are real and immediate.

At the Armadale Chamber of Commerce, we’re committed to keeping our members informed, supported, and resilient. Here’s what you need to know and, more importantly, what you can do to protect and sustain your business during this time. 

Understanding the Impact on Small Businesses

The current global situation is affecting businesses in several key ways:

• Rising fuel costs impacting transport, logistics, and operational expenses
• Supply chain disruptions causing delays, increased costs, and reduced availability
• Cash flow pressure due to higher overheads and uncertainty
• Volatility in international trade affecting exporters and importers

While Australia’s fuel supply remains stable in the short term, businesses should prepare for ongoing fluctuations and disruptions.

Government Support Available

The Australian Government has introduced several measures to help businesses manage the impact:

1. $1 Billion Economic Resilience Program

This program will provide interest-free loans to support businesses in critical sectors such as:

• Manufacturing
• Freight and logistics
• Fuel and fertiliser supply chains

These loans are designed to:

• Help manage rising costs
• Maintain operations
• Strengthen supply chain resilience

Businesses impacted by market disruptions will be able to apply through participating banks.

2. Fuel Cost Relief

To ease immediate pressure:

• Fuel excise has been reduced by 32 cents per litre (until 30 June)
• Heavy Vehicle Road User Charges reduced to zero for 3 months

This is particularly beneficial for:

• Transport businesses
• Trades and mobile services
• Logistics-dependent industries

3. Tax Relief & Flexibility

The ATO is offering temporary support, including:

• Flexible payment plans
• Remission of interest and penalties
• Adjustments to PAYG instalments
• Reduced compliance action in impacted industries

If your business is under pressure, engaging early with your accountant or the ATO is critical.

4. Easier Access to Finance

To support cash flow:

• Lending rules have been relaxed for small businesses
• Banks may offer:
• • Loan restructuring
  • Payment deferrals
  • Temporary credit increases

Practical Steps to Protect Your Business

Beyond government support, there are immediate actions you can take to strengthen your business:

1. Review Your Contracts

• Check clauses around pricing, delays, and force majeure
• Ensure your agreements reflect current risks
• Seek legal advice where needed

2. Strengthen Cash Flow Management

• Monitor expenses closely (especially fuel and logistics)
• Speak early with lenders, suppliers, and service providers
• Explore payment plans or cost adjustments

3. Plan for Supply Chain Disruptions

• Engage early with suppliers and logistics partners
• Build flexibility into inventory where possible
• Consider local sourcing options

4. Communicate with Customers

• Be transparent about delays or price changes
• Set realistic expectations
• Maintain trust through clear communication

5. Monitor Costs & Adjust Pricing

• Keep an eye on freight and delivery charges
• Adjust pricing where necessary to maintain margins
• Stay informed about fuel surcharge changes

6. Document Decisions

• Keep records of key decisions, changes, and agreements
• This is essential if disputes arise later

Support Beyond Government

You don’t have to navigate this alone. There are additional support avenues available:

• Financial counsellors – free and confidential support from the SBDC
• Industry bodies – legal, workforce, and trade support
• Banks and insurers – hardship support, payment plans, and flexibility
• Local networks – including the Armadale Chamber community

A Message to Our Members

Periods of uncertainty test every business—but they also create opportunities to strengthen systems, build resilience, and rethink strategies.

At the Armadale Chamber, we encourage all members to:

• Seek advice early
• Stay informed
• Lean on your business community

Need Support?

If your business is feeling the impact, reach out:

• Speak to your accountant or financial advisor
• Contact your bank or service providers
• Engage with industry support organisations

Together, we can navigate this and come out stronger.

This is not just about surviving the current crisis—it’s about building a more resilient, adaptable business for the future.

Supporting Local Business Growth and Development in Kelmscott

The Armadale Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of a pilot advocacy project in Kelmscott aimed at understanding how we can better support local businesses and strengthen the local economy.

This initiative is focused on listening to business owners — understanding their challenges, priorities, and opportunities for growth — so we can work together to create a more vibrant, sustainable, and connected business community in Kelmscott.

Click here to share your story in our Kelmscott Business Survey.

Our Advocacy Sub-Committee

The project is being led by our Advocacy Sub-Committee, made up of dedicated local business and community leaders:

• Kate Rodgers – Secretary, Armadale Chamber

• Paul Harrison – Managing Director, Beaver Tree Services

• Daniel Bremer – Owner, Swat-A-Pest

Together, they will be visiting businesses across Kelmscott to conduct a short business survey, gathering insights on what new developments, infrastructure, and support are needed to help businesses grow and thrive in the area.

Giving Back to the Local Community

As part of this initiative, Paul Harrison of Beaver Tree Services has generously offered to sponsor 10 free Chamber memberships for local businesses in Kelmscott who participate in the project. This incredible gesture is designed to help more businesses get involved, connect, and benefit from the Chamber’s support network.

We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to Paul and Beaver Tree Services for their continued commitment to supporting our local community.

Get Involved

If you’re a Kelmscott business and would like to take part in the survey, or find out more about how the Chamber can support your business, please get in touch:
admin@businessarmadale.com.au

COMPLETE THE ADVOCACY SURVEY

Please note: This is an Armadale Chamber of Commerce initiative and is separate from the City of Armadale’s Kelmscott Public Realm Strategy project. While the City is looking at the physical spaces of Kelmscott, we are focused specifically on the voice and needs of the business owners.

On Friday, 6 June 2025, we proudly hosted the Pride of Workmanship Award Night at Honeyeater House — an inspiring evening dedicated to recognising the hardworking individuals and businesses who go above and beyond to serve our community with passion, dedication, and pride.

With over 60 attendees, the evening was a true celebration of local spirit and collaboration. Guests were treated to heartfelt speeches from Mayor Ruth Butterfield, who spoke passionately about the importance of community recognition, and Anthony Pyle, President of the Rotary Club of Armadale, who highlighted the values that underpin the Pride of Workmanship awards. Our very own Deena Syed, President of Business Armadale, delivered a powerful address about the role local businesses play in shaping the future of our region.

We extend our deepest thanks to the City of Armadale for their ongoing support and partnership in bringing this event to life. Their commitment to recognising and uplifting our local business community makes events like this possible.

A special thank you goes out to everyone who took the time to nominate local business owners and employees — those who consistently go the extra mile to deliver quality service and make Armadale a better place to live and work.

The Pride of Workmanship Awards remind us that excellence exists all around us — in our cafés, clinics, stores, and workshops. We’re proud to continue celebrating those who embody the spirit of integrity, reliability, and community leadership.

Stay tuned for more events that shine a light on our local legends — and thank you to everyone who helped make the evening such a success.

On Friday evening, the Armadale Chamber of Commerce and APM Communities proudly co-hosted the Business Empowerment Sundowner, an inspiring event dedicated to showcasing how accessibility and inclusion can drive business success.

Held at the picturesque Honeyeater House in Harrisdale, the event welcomed over 40 local businesses, with more than 50 tickets sold. From 5pm to 8pm, attendees enjoyed a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, complete with a beautifully curated grazing board (from Amy at The Simple Grazer) and refreshing mimosa champagne, generously provided by the Chamber.

The evening focused on the powerful message that being accessible and inclusive isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also good for business. Attendees were surprised and delighted by how much they learned, with many expressing how eye-opening and valuable the insights were.

Guests were treated to the wonderful live sounds of Benny Rowe, a talented vision-impaired musician whose performance added a warm and uplifting energy to the evening.

Each guest received a resource bag filled with tools and information to help them take practical steps toward greater accessibility. The event also featured a lucky draw, with several attendees walking away with fantastic prizes including local artwork, premium wine, and a gourmet cheese board.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising both the content and the warm, collaborative atmosphere. It was a fantastic evening of learning, networking, and community building—one that highlighted the strength and potential of inclusive business practices.

 

Did you know that using rewards might actually undermine motivation in the long run? Sounds counterintuitive, right? This effect, also known as the Sawyer Effect, demonstrates how external incentives can erode intrinsic drive. In fact, research suggests that the more you use carrots and sticks to push someone, the less likely they are to be intrinsically motivated. So, what does work when it comes to lasting motivation and behaviour change? 

That’s where behavioural science steps in. By understanding the deeper, psychological triggers behind motivation, we can start crafting strategies that not only help us achieve our own goals but also inspire others to make meaningful changes.

In this upcoming workshop on Motivation and Behaviour Change, we’ll dive into the principles to build intrinsic motivation—the kind that lasts—and create an environment where motivation thrives. We’ll take a look at behavioural insights that will provide you with 4 essential ingredients to build motivation: your very own recipe for motivation!

If you're ready to break free from the traditional "carrots and sticks" approach and truly understand how to motivate yourself and others, this session is for you! Join me for an interactive workshop designed to give you the tools to spark real, sustainable change.

Author: Rik Baas, Behavioural Strategist

Sign up now and get ready to discover how you can boost motivation and transform behaviour!

From our good friends at Business Foundations:

Business Foundations helps businesses to create, review and refine their business models. We equip business owners with the skills and knowledge to get started, navigate their markets and grow.

We have nearly 30 years providing strategic development and growth services across Australia. We have helped more than 2,500 businesses each year start, evolve and grow.

We have been helping small to medium businesses equip themselves with the skills and knowledge they need to start and sustainably grow their businesses for over 30 years.

Business Foundations | Humanitix

The Armadale Chamber of Commerce offers our premium and corporate members the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise on our website and social media platforms. By contributing content, you can provide valuable educational insights, industry best practices, and community news that benefit our members and enhance your visibility within the community.

We encourage submissions that are informative and beneficial, avoiding purely promotional or opinion-based content. Our content team will review all submissions to ensure they align with our goals and standards. Please note that we reserve the right to decline any content that does not meet these criteria or is deemed inappropriate.

We look forward to your contributions and appreciate your efforts in helping us provide valuable resources to our community.

If you have something you would like to contribute, please send an email to tech@armadalechamber.com.au