Migrant-managed small businesses have easier access to support with a key website now available in more than 100 languages.
The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) website has integrated new software which translates the advice offered.
ASBFE Ombudsman Bruce Billson said one in three small businesses were run by people who were born overseas.
Mr Billson said their research showed nearly one-quarter of small business owners used a language other than English at home and more than half of small business owners were second generation migrants, with a parent born overseas.
“Sometimes when help is needed and people are distressed, many find it easier when the information is provided in a preferred language,” he said.
“I hope this new feature on our website, which can be activated by one simple click, will make it easier for migrant-led business owners to use the many helpful resources, tools and checklists available.”
Mr Billson said almost a quarter of small business owners who had used the service of his case managers spoke a language other than English at home.
He said the translation feature was clearly located at the top of the website, with the translation software powered by Google Translate.
“Effort has been made to provide accurate translations, but no automated translation is perfect nor is it intended to replace human translators,” Mr Billson said.
“When we individually assist with cases, our case managers use human translators to help ensure that translations are accurate, and meaning is well understood.”
