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.