The Voice of Small Business
Across Australia
SBTC — the Small Business & Trade Council of Australia — is a not-for-profit member association dedicated to advocating for, connecting and supporting small businesses and sole traders nationwide.
Become a Member About the CouncilPrograms, Advocacy & Community
We exist to champion the interests of small businesses in policy, provide access to development programs, and build a strong peer community across Australia.
Policy Advocacy
We represent member interests in government consultations, submissions and forums — ensuring the small business voice is heard where it counts.
Education & Training
Free and subsidised workshops, webinars and short courses for members covering compliance, finance, digital skills and leadership.
Member Networking
Regional events, online forums and referral networks to help members connect, collaborate and grow together.
Business Support Services
Access to free initial legal, financial and HR guidance through our member support program and partner organisations.
Research & Reports
Annual state-of-small-business surveys, policy briefs and industry insights shared freely with members and the public.
Recognition Programs
Our annual Small Business Awards celebrate outstanding achievement, innovation and community contribution across Australia.
A Council Built by Small Business, for Small Business
The Small Business & Trade Council of Australia (SBTC) was established in 2007 as a member-led, not-for-profit organisation. We are governed by a volunteer board of small business owners who understand first-hand the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
We work across all industries and regions — from sole traders in regional communities to small teams in metropolitan areas — to ensure no business is too small to have a voice. Our programs are funded through member subscriptions, grants and government partnerships, not commercial fee-for-service arrangements.
We believe a thriving small business sector is essential to Australia’s economic resilience, regional employment and community wellbeing.
Join the CouncilJoin the SBTC Community
Membership is open to any Australian small business, sole trader or industry body. All fees are reinvested into our programs and advocacy work.
Sole Trader
- Member newsletter & updates
- Webinar access
- Online member community
- Policy submission input
- Member discounts with partners
Small Business
- Everything in Sole Trader
- Free workshop registrations
- Regional chapter events
- Free initial advisory session
- Awards program eligibility
- Profile in member directory
Industry Partner
- Everything in Small Business
- Co-branding opportunities
- Sponsored event access
- Board committee input
- Annual report recognition
- Priority policy briefings
What Our Members Say
Hear from small business owners across Australia who are part of the SBTC community.
“Being part of SBTC has given my small business a genuine seat at the table. When the council submitted evidence to the Senate Committee on unfair contract terms, our input was in there.”
“The free webinars alone are worth the membership fee. I’ve upskilled on everything from payroll compliance to social media strategy without spending a fortune.”
“The regional chapter events in Townsville have been invaluable for referrals. Half my new clients in the last year came through SBTC connections.”
News & Advocacy Updates
Stay across our policy work, member news and upcoming events.
SBTC Submits to Treasury on Small Business Tax Threshold Review
We lodged a detailed submission on behalf of our members calling for an increase to the instant asset write-off threshold and simplified BAS reporting.
Read more →2026 Small Business Awards — Nominations Now Open
Recognising excellence, innovation and community impact across six categories. Nominations close 31 March 2026. All financial members are eligible to nominate.
Nominate now →New Regional Chapters Launched in Geelong and Cairns
SBTC is proud to welcome two new regional chapters, bringing our local network to 42 communities across Australia. Join your local chapter today.
Find your chapter →Ready to Get Involved?
Join over 3,200 Australian small businesses and sole traders who are part of the SBTC community. Membership starts at just $99 per year — and every dollar goes back into the sector.
Join the Council Today Contact UsContact the Council
Whether you have a membership enquiry, want to get involved, or have a policy matter to raise — we’d love to hear from you.
Council Office
Level 3, 45 William Street
Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
info@sbtc.org.au
Mon – Fri: 9:00am – 5:00pm AEST
Staffed by a small volunteer team
Latest News & Resources
Policy updates, advocacy news, training resources and insights for Australian small business owners and sole traders.
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