About the Small Business & Trade Council
We are Australia’s member-led association for small businesses and sole traders — advocating, connecting and supporting the sector since 2007.
Our Story
The Small Business and Trade Council of Australia (SBTC) was founded in 2007 by a group of small business owners who were frustrated by the lack of a coordinated, member-driven voice for the sector in government policy discussions.
What began as an informal network of 80 founding members in Victoria has grown into a national organisation with over 3,200 financial members across every state and territory, 42 regional chapters, and a track record of meaningful advocacy wins that have materially improved conditions for small businesses across Australia.
We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors drawn from our membership. Our work is funded entirely through member subscriptions, government grants and philanthropic partnerships — not commercial consulting fees.
Independence
We are not funded by commercial interests. Our positions are determined by our members, not by sponsors or government direction.
Inclusion
No business is too small or too regional to deserve representation. Our membership structure is deliberately accessible.
Evidence
Our policy positions are grounded in member research, economic data and consultation with industry and academic experts.
Community
We believe small businesses are the backbone of Australian communities — economically, socially and culturally.
Our Board of Directors
The SBTC Board is composed entirely of volunteer small business owners elected by the membership at our Annual General Meeting.
Margaret Kowalski
President
Retail — Sydney NSW
David Lim
Vice President
Technology — Melbourne VIC
Sarah Abdi
Treasurer
Hospitality — Brisbane QLD
Robert Chen
Secretary
Professional Services — Perth WA
Tina Nguyen
Director
Manufacturing — Adelaide SA
James O’Brien
Director
Trades — Darwin NT