Australia's Small Businesses Struggle with Rising Costs Amid Online Retail Competition

Clothing shop owner Francene Martin in Keith, South Australia, says she feels constant pressure from online retailers like Amazon and Shein. Despite a 50% off sale, her store Retail Therapy made no sales on Sunday.

Across the country, small businesses are struggling with rising costs. Prey cafe operations manager Frazer Wyley in Ballarat said 'insidious cost creep' was a significant challenge for small operators.

The Reserve Bank of Australia's reforms to EFTPOS charges may save businesses $910 million per year in reduced transaction fees, but some experts warn that ending credit and debit card surcharging could shift the burden onto small businesses.

Cafes and restaurants are among those feeling the pinch. According to CreditorWatch, one in eight Australian cafes and restaurants have closed in the past year, with payment defaults rising nationally for the third consecutive month.