The Australian Lottery and Newsagents Association (ALNA) has welcomed the appointment of the Honourable Bruce Billson as the new Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO).
Billson replaces Kate Carnell AO whose five-year tenure as Ombudsman has come to an end.
ALNA CEO Ben Kearney said that Billson’s extensive experience working with small business and as a small business owner will lead to a productive and successful tenure as the new ASBFEO.
“Given his history as a small business owner, small business minister and his post with the Franchise Council, Mr Billson brings with him exactly the kind of knowledge and experience that we think will serve ALNAs members particularly well,” said Kearney.
“We have worked well with Mr Billson in both Opposition and as Small Business Minister and Mr Bilson is highly regarded as an advocate for small business, so we’re confident he understands that small businesses like newsagents are the lifeblood of the Australian economy.
“After the challenges of the pandemic on our member businesses, we are certainly looking forward to working with Mr Billson in his new capacity and to seeing thriving businesses, with a renewed sense of confidence in the future.”
Kearney thanks outgoing Ombudsman Carnell for her efforts over the years and said that she would be missed.
“Ms Carnell was a fearless campaigner and champion for all small businesses in Australia and is leaving a great legacy of meaningful change.”